This past week, April 7-11, 8 regional trainees completed Heavy Equipment Operation training in Nome. The training was hosted by Kawerak’s Workforce Development Program (formerly known as Employment and Training) in partnership with Northern Industrial Training (NIT), Northwestern Alaska Career and Technical Center (NACTEC) and Bering Straits Native Corporation (BSNC).

Since 2022 Kawerak and partners have consistently hosted this yearly training course resulting in dozens of successful trainees more prepared for local hire.

Trainees started the week at NACTEC, completing simulator-based training to familiarize themselves with the layout and function of large equipment, without the pressure of being in the rig right away. By day four, the confident trainees met with an NIT instructor and put their digital skills to the test operating 3 different types of BSNC machinery. Trainees moved and removing snow gaining the practical hands-on skills they would need for the job in the real world. 

“I received training pertinent to my job, the use of heavy equipment is vital to my job,” reflected Harry Karmun from Nome. Harry currently holds a position where he operates machinery. “More spent time in equipment was helpful.”

Other trainees have had no previous experience in operating and were learning for the first time. Jazzlyn Garnie from Teller shared “I am thankful for this opportunity. I will be able to look for jobs and apply. I really enjoyed it!”

Kawerak’s Workforce Development team takes pride in coordinating opportunities for the benefit of the region. Cross organization partnerships have been integral in making opportunities happen for our regions work ready communities. Additional training courses for Heavy Equipment Operation will be hosted in the future.

Coming next is a Construction Safety course that will take place in Nome at the end of April. There’s still time to apply; applications are due April 17th! Download the application online at kawerak.org/training.

If you are a Tribal member needing assistance with your employment goals, we would love for you to connect with our team at training@kawerak.org.