Program will combine technical training and hands-on work experience to help prepare participants for careers in the mining sector
FLIN FLON, MB, Oct. 28, 2026 /CNW/ -- Critical minerals are important for Canada's economic future and sovereignty. They are also an essential driver for economic development in northern and Indigenous communities. A new Surveyor Assistant program in Northern Manitoba will provide participants with the technical skills and hands-on experience needed for careers in the mining sector. By combining classroom and practical training with work-integrated learning at active mine sites, the program will help participants move from training to employment.
Today, the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency on behalf of the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), announced an investment of $250,000 for the Northern Manitoba Sector Council Inc. (NMSC) to develop and deliver the program.
Training will be delivered through University College of the North's (UCN) Northern Manitoba Mining Academy in Flin Flon, where participants will have access to specialized facilities before moving into work-integrated learning placements.
Participants will build practical surveying skills and gain on-the-job experience with mining and industry partners. Work-integrated learning commitments have already been secured with Alamos Gold, Vale, Hudbay Minerals and Manitoba's Highways department, with additional placements to be developed as needed.
Quotes
"Northern Manitoba's mining sector has tremendous economic potential for the province and Canada. Preparing people in the region with the skills and experience needed for good jobs is an important part of that growth. That's why our government is investing to help northern and Indigenous residents gain practical, industry-focused training and hands-on experience at mine sites, while helping Manitoba employers build the skilled workforce they need."
- The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)
"Every Canadian deserves to see a future for themselves and have the opportunity to build it close to home. For Indigenous and northern residents, access to education and hands-on learning in mining and critical mineral development can open doors to lasting careers and new possibilities. These supports also help grow lasting careers and strengthen long-term economic growth in communities."
- The Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, Member of Parliament for Churchill-Keewatinook Aski
"This funding will help the Northern Manitoba Sector Council connect northern Manitobans with practical training and work-integrated learning opportunities through the Surveyor Assistant Program. By working with University College of the North and industry partners, we are helping participants build skills for careers in surveying while supporting employers' workforce needs. This investment supports our commitment to Northern People for Northern Jobs."
- Glenn Laycock, Executive Director, Northern Manitoba Sector Council
"University College of the North is proud to partner with the Northern Manitoba Sector Council to launch the Surveyor Assistant Program, creating new opportunities for northern Manitobans to develop practical, industry-relevant skills and pursue careers in the surveying field. This program reflects the strength of collaboration between education and industry and our shared commitment to building a skilled workforce that meets the needs of northern Manitoba. By providing hands-on training and pathways into employment, we are helping learners gain the confidence, knowledge and experience they need to succeed while supporting the growing needs of employers across the North."
- Jamie Grant, Associate Vice President, Community & Industry Solutions, University College of the North
Quick facts
- Manitoba has 30 of the 34 minerals identified by Canada as critical, including nickel, copper, zinc and other minerals important to clean technology and advanced manufacturing.
- Funding announced today flows through PrairiesCan's Community Economic Development and Diversification (CEDD) program, which supports sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Prairie communities.
- The new program will complement existing mine readiness training delivered through UCN's Northern Manitoba Mining Academy and NORCAT.
- The Surveyor Assistant Program will provide a more technical pathway for participants interested in surveying and related work in the mining sector.
Associated links
- Prairies Economic Development Canada
- Community Economic Development and Diversification (CEDD) in the Prairie provinces
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SOURCE Prairies Economic Development Canada
Contacts: Soraya Lemur, Press Secretary, Office of the Hon. Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies, Economic Development Canada, [email protected], 343-574-6781; Tunde Oyateru, Manager, Communications, Prairies Economic Development Canada, [email protected], 639-382-3753
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