Okanagan College offering tuition-free training for log truck drivers

Photo: OC

Okanagan College in Oliver is offering tuition-free training for log-truck drivers. 

The professional log truck driver program will be offered at the OC Oliver campus starting Nov. 19 — a 16-week program consisting of 10 weeks of classroom training and six weeks on the road. 

It’s being offered tuition-free for eligible students who: meet the definition of an “EI client”, are eligible for WorkBC Case Management and who have been referred by a WorkBC Case Manager, and who possess a valid driver’s license.

“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 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.”

The program is being funded by the provincial and federal governments. Existing Class 1 drivers can also use the program to up-level their skills for hauling logs.