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West Fraser named a top employer for young people in 2021

West Fraser Timber Co. has been named one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People for 2021.

The forest products company, which has won the award five times, was recognized by Canada’s Top Employer organizer MediaCorp Canada for its commitment to helping young people build their careers.

West Fraser has partnered with the Quesnel, B.C. campus of the College of New Caledonia to deliver millwright training, and has participated in the development of the sawfiling apprenticeship program at the Thompson River University campus in Williams Lake, B.C.

The company manages a “New and Young Worker Program” to provide extensive training to employees under the age of 25 — the program includes orientation, job-shadowing and dedicated training with a supervisor and the mill’s safety resource.

In addition, West Fraser offers summer jobs, co-op opportunities, paid internships, scholarships and bursaries to students. The company also participates in the University of British Columbia’s mentorship program for forestry students.

“West Fraser prides itself on supporting all of our employees, at every stage in their career,” says the company in a statement.

“We know that to be a global wood products leader we need dedicated employees and to develop them so they can achieve their potential. It’s our honour to be recognized for our commitment and to be chosen by young people as a place to grow their careers.”

The Young People award is in its 19th year and is part of MediaCorp’s Canada’s Top 100 Employers national competition.