Mr. Speaker, Qulliq Energy Corporation is pleased to announce the approval of four indeterminate apprenticeship positions within the organization. This is a significant and timely step coming after the Inuit employment arbitration decision of March 25, 2023. It is a demonstration of QEC’s commitment to supporting the Inuit Employment Plan and increasing the number of Inuit employees within the corporation.
These apprenticeship positions will provide valuable training and experience to individuals interested in pursuing rewarding careers in the energy industry. Each of the four positions will have a qualified journeyperson providing mentorship. These apprenticeship opportunities will not only provide valuable training and experience to the individuals enrolled but will contribute to the growth and success of QEC as a corporation through the retention of long-term organizational knowledge and reducing reliance on southern labour.
Over the past five years, QEC has been strengthening its foundational programs, such as the Career Development Plan, Summer Student Program, and Apprenticeship Program, to achieve its Inuit Employment Program goals. The addition of these four apprenticeships provides Inuit with increased opportunities to become certified tradespeople in Nunavut.
QEC is in the process of seeking direct appointment approval for two casual employees into the apprenticeship program. The two Inuit employees have demonstrated a high level of skill and commitment to their trades. The remaining two positions will be filled using QEC’s internal apprenticeship application process. The corporation looks forward to the continued expansion of the Apprenticeship Program in the future. QEC is proud to continue its efforts in building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.