Workforce
The Workforce program area at the BC First Nations Forestry Council helps First Nations individuals discover, build, and advance their careers in the forest sector. This includes support in career discovery, education and training, recruitment, retention, and health and safety. From scholarships and mentorship to job connections and industry partnerships, the program ensures First Nations talent is recognized and supported to lead in BC’s forest workforce.
Workforce
The Workforce program area at the BC First Nations Forestry Council helps First Nations individuals discover, build, and advance their careers in the forest sector. This includes support in career discovery, education and training, recruitment, retention, and health and safety. From scholarships and mentorship to job connections and industry partnerships, the program ensures First Nations talent is recognized and supported to lead in BC’s forest workforce.
WORKFORCECONNECT
WorkforceConnect opens the door for First Nations youth and early-career professionals to build futures in forestry. We connect your ambition with hands-on training, paid internships, and employers committed to Indigenous talent. Discover opportunities through dynamic info sessions, easy-to-use online tools, and the ForestryConnect portal—everything you need to get hired, grow, and thrive in a healthy, supportive workplace.
For Students: Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program (IFSP)
The BC First Nations Forestry Council’s Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program is designed to provide support for First Nations, Inuit, or Métis descent students interested in attending full-time studies in a designated post-secondary institution.
PARTNERS
The BC First Nations Forestry Council is working toward a bold target: 2,200 First Nations professionals thriving in forestry careers within the next ten years. Industry support is the key to getting there.
- Become a Program Partner
Sponsor a student, offer paid work placements, and shape training that develops the skilled talent your company needs, while building a more inclusive sector. - Make a Donation
Your gift fuels every Forestry Council program area—from scholarships and workforce training to business development and policy advocacy—multiplying impact across the entire forestry landscape.
Since 2012, industry partners have backed 263 Indigenous Forestry Scholarships. Join them today and help grow a stronger, more diverse future for forestry in British Columbia.
OUR PARTNERS & SPONSORS
SUCCESS STORIES
“This scholarship program has enabled me to pursue my studies in Environment, Forestry, Indigenous studies, and Planning. Throughout my education, I was able to figure out what careers can fulfill my drive to make meaningful change in our communities and nation. Forever thankful to everyone involved in IFSP. Thank you.”
– Amanda St Onge
“The First Nations Forestry Council’s considerable time and support, along with that from the IFSP program, fosters a positive and encouraging environment for learning.”
– Chanvre Oleman
“What a valuable experience this is to my life and to my future and to the future of others my work may impact. I entered this situation wanting to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge holders and industry, I now want to do so in a way that promotes the sustainable and ethical harvest of natural resources.”
– Joe Daniels
RESOURCE TOOL KIT
Talk to an Advisor
Looking to get involved in the forestry workforce? If you’re an industry partner interested in collaboration, training, or mentorship opportunities, connect with Denise. If you’re a First Nations student or job seeker looking for scholarships, guidance, or work placements, reach out to Catherine. Our workforce team is here to here to connect you with the right programs and people.
Relationship & Fund Development Manager
Workforce Development Lead