News

The new certified occupations act introduced in the Manitoba legislature Wednesday May 6 by Kevin Chief Manitoba Jobs and the Economy Minister would provide better training and skills development for Manitoba workers, specifically people wanting to start a career as a truck driver in Manitoba.

The proposed act would ensure Manitoba workers in certain industries would be able to receive certification in their occupation from on-the-job training as well as classroom training from accredited providers.

‘œManitoba businesses have many specialized jobs that people new to the job market need to know are an option for them,” said Minister Chief.  ‘œWe have the youngest and fastest growing demographic in Canada, as well as many newcomers and others who are just looking for a chance to put their abilities to use in a new occupation.  This proposed act is about giving them a tap on the shoulder to show them the possibilities available.”

The proposed act would see enhanced training and certification for select occupations.  The first occupation that would be certified would be commercial truck drivers.  The Manitoba government has worked closely with industry stakeholders to develop the legislation and training programs, the minister noted.

‘œThis type of investment means there will be greater quality and selection of skills training for Manitobans including truck drivers,” said Terry Shaw, Executive Director, Manitoba Trucking Association.  ‘œInvesting in training and education means better equipped workers and a stronger labour market for our industry.”

The new system would include industry-led standards development, a competency-based training model, and the requirement of both classroom and on-the-job training.  Standards would be developed through consultation with industry stakeholders.

On a very timely and related note Trucking HR Canada has also just released the updated National Occupational Standard (NOS) for Entry Level Truck Drivers.  This means industry is ready to hit the ground running when this act is passed.  Further information on the updated NOS can be found here.

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For more information, please contact:
Terry Shaw
Executive Director
Manitoba Trucking Association
204-632-6600
[email protected]