Corrin Williams
Special to the Tribune
Cariboo Chilcotin area grades eight and nine students had a unique opportunity in June to take part in a pilot project funded by the BC HR Task Force.
The Cariboo Chilcotin Explore for More Youth Camp of Discovery was co-ordinated by Thompson Rivers University in co-operation with School District 27 and industry partners.
The camp was free for students and took place at Gavin Lake Education Camp June 24 through 27.
Over the course of the four-day camp students were introduced to many different career options available in the mining sector.
The New Gold simulator was provided for all students to experience mining equipment and scenarios.
“It was just like playing a really big video game,” one student said.
Students also got the chance to operate a backhoe brought out to Gavin Lake by Finning Canada.
Various informative talks and activities were provided by the Mt. Polley Mine Rescue Team, Mt. Polley Heavy Duty Mechanics, Gibraltar Millwrights and Orica Blasting Engineer. Gold Panning with Yukon Dan and Geocaching with Spider Rescue Services were also enjoyed.
All camp participants experienced a working mine site with a tour of Gibraltar Mine and pretended to have their own mine while partaking in a cookie mining activity. And what would going to camp be without swimming, canoeing, and some archery?
The goal of the camp was to create awareness of the vast array of opportunities in the mining industry in a fun and interactive way, so that local youth and parents may make better informed choices when time comes for grade 10 – 12 course selection and career planning.
Overall the camp was a huge success.
My hope is to see this camp run yearly for all upcoming grade eights and nines to enjoy and benefit from.