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OC in Oliver to offer tuition-free log truck driver training to eligible students

The 16-week program offers 10 weeks of theory, classroom training and six weeks of hands-on training
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The Okanagan College is offering a tuition-free Professional Log Truck Driver Training Program to eligible students at the Oliver campus beginning Nov. 18. (Contributed)

Those looking for a career change may want to consider the tuition-free log truck driver training program Okanagan College is set to host out of Oliver this month.

The 16-week professional log truck driver training program is offered through the college’s Oliver campus starting on Nov. 18. According to a release, the program is funded by both federal and provincial governments, as well as WorkBC and includes 10 weeks of theory and classroom training, followed by six weeks of hands-on practical driver training.

The program is being offered tuition-free to students who meet the criterion of an EI client, are eligible for WorkBC case management and who have been referred by a WorkBC case manager and possess a valid driver’s licence.

READ MORE: VIDEO: Logging truck convoy stalls traffic in downtown Vancouver to protest job losses

“This program was designed by the BC Forest Safety Council in consultation with log truck and truck harvesting advisory group members across the province,” said Dennis Silvestrone, director of continuing studies and corporate training for the college, in the release. “For us, this program represents an invaluable opportunity for the community and for industry. With cuts on the mill side of forest sector work, we know there is a work force in need of training and other paths in the forestry sector.

This training will also help us work with industry to enhance safety performance and professionalism for drivers. And for existing Class 1 drivers looking to specialize or up-level their skills, they can tap into great training in hauling logs and driving on resource roads.”

More information on the program can be found online at www.okanagan.bc.ca/logtruck or by calling 1-866-352-0103 ext. 8249. Alternatively, those interested can email pbruce@okanagan.bc.ca.

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