April 10-14 2023 this Brevig Mission team of Sarah Henry, Thomas D Olanna, Polly Tocktoo and Rebecca Jones participated in the Safety Bootcamp course, provided by Northern Industrial Training (NIT) through partnership with Kawerak. The group completed courses in Flagging, Skid Steer operation, OSHA 10 and First Aid. It was a packed week, but there was a lot that came out of it.
“I took this training to help with work, but I’m bringing my skills back to also help my family and community,” reflected Polly. With the variety of skills the group now has, the Brevig Mission community will certainly see the benefits of not only one trained community member, but four!
Knowing construction projects will be happening throughout the Bering Strait Region in the summertime, the Safety Bootcamp course made sense. Flagging, Skid steer operation, OSHA and First Aid gave participants a very useful set of skills to get those summer jobs. Kawerak Employment and Training Department advertised the course within the region, and offered travel scholarships for tribal members interested in taking the course. Flights, accommodations and stipend were provided for those who submitted applications and were accepted in the course. The course itself was covered by Kawerak and NIT’s partnership.
Participant Rebecca Jones is adding her skills from Safety Bootcamp to many others she has already accumulated. “Last year I took the Heavy Equipment Operators class. Over the summer I was able to drive a dump truck for Knik Construction in Brevig Mission.” Rebecca was able to take her new skills and put them to work, and get immediate financial benefit. “With my drivers license in hand now, my next step is getting my CDL! I’m really looking forward to continuing to grow in my skill set.”
The Safety Bootcamp course was effective at laying the groundwork for safety and trying to prevent an emergency from happening, as in many communities higher medical care and emergency services are a ways away. “My eyes are now open to dangers I didn’t see before and I can stop them,” said Thomas. “I’m more confident now in what to do on the job site in case of an emergency,” said Sarah. “Before I would watch…now I can step in and help.” This reflection was music to instructor Archie Vance, “That’s the highest praise,” he said. “That is what these courses are all about.”
Kawerak Employment and Training continues to offer scholarships and identify trainings to ensure our tribal members have skills for employment, to contribute to their community, and reach their personal goals. To see the training calendar and upcoming trainings visit kawerak.org/training. If you want to connect with someone to suggest a training or have questions, please call us at 800-450-4341 or email training@kawerak.org. Our team can also provide assistance to help you identify helpful resources, offer support check-ins, give employment assistance AND MORE! We are motivated to get you where you want to go! Also special thanks to Cole Cushman with the City of Nome for use of the city area for training!
