Niton Junction, Alta. (Nov 29/04) - A series of pipeline training sessions for aboriginal workers from the NWT concluded last week in Alberta.

The training was provided by EOS Pipeline and Facilities Ltd.

Fifty men and women -- about a dozen at a time -- from Fort Good Hope, Tulita, Deline, Trout Lake and Kakisa participated in the three two-week sessions west of Edmonton.

The training included an introduction to pipeline construction, practical experience on heavy equipment and Class 1 truck driving training, along with safety instruction.

During the sessions, trainees dug ditches, laid pipe, covered it over and dug it up again.

Plus, the workers stayed in a work camp setting at Niton Junction.

Gilbert Salopree, who is originally from the Hay River Reserve but now lives in Trout Lake, said he enjoyed learning how to operate heavy equipment.

Salopree, 28, said the training was great and unlike any course he has ever attended.

"They showed us the basics and we have to take it from there," he said, adding he hopes it is the start of a new career.

Gary Taniton, 33, of Deline called the training a great opportunity for him to try out operating heavy equipment.

"From this training, I hope to get into heavy equipment at Aurora College or somewhere," Taniton said, explaining he would like to go on to learn how to drive graders and 18-wheelers

Taniton believes the Alberta training was a way to get ready for upcoming pipeline work.

Angela Tripathy, the corporate manager with EOS, noted the company has joint ventures in the NWT, and also operates in the Cameron Hills.

She explained the company wants to work with communities and build a workforce in the NWT.

"We need these guys," she said. "There's going to be a labour shortage."

The company funded the training to the tune of about $500,000.

Each community involved in the initiative selected who would participate, and supported them during the training.

Leaders, elders and young people from some communities visited the training site for a day.

Tripathy said the company considered the training "immensely successful," noting everyone who started the training finished it.