The digger truck donation occurred Tuesday at Northlands College in Air Ronge. (Submitted photo/Aamir Saifullah)

By Derek Cornet

helping out

Northlands College receives digger truck donation from utility contractor Valard Construction

May 25, 2023 | 4:56 PM

Utility contractor Valard Construction, which is a leading provider of innovative solutions in the power transmission and distribution industry, donated a digger truck to Northlands College on Tuesday.

The digger truck is expected to contribute to the college’s training courses, particularly in the Poweline Technician program. In total, Valard has hired 25 Northlands graduates and has 17 currently employed with them.

“These guys are coming out of school and they are educated,” Valard manager Rob Nash said. “They understand what the trade is about when they come out of there and they fit right into the crew immediately. We don’t have to do the hands-on training that takes us probably three or four months.”

The digger truck, a vital piece of equipment used in power line construction and maintenance, will play a crucial role in providing Northlands College learners with hands-on training opportunities. Nash noted the value of the truck is approximately $50,000, but would have been worth $150,000 when purchased new in 2010.

“It’s a truck that’s going to last them for 25 years at least for as much as they are going to use it,” Nash said. “The truck they have there right now is broken down and it is ready to be retired.”

Weekend hockey

PAGC set to host largest Senator's Cup tournament to date

Apr 26, 2024

Riderville

Riders Have Options Heading into Tuesday CFL Draft

Apr 26, 2024

health care

RBC Foundation gifts $7,500 to assist in training La Ronge nurses

Apr 24, 2024

On Tuesday, representatives from Northlands College and Valard Construction came together for an official handover in Air Ronge. Nash explained Valard prides itself in developing strong relationships with clients and the communities in which it operates.

Northlands College President and CEO Karsten Henriksen stated the donation with have a positive impact when it comes to the institution’s learners and the surrounding communities.

“”We are immensely grateful to Valard Construction for their generous donation of a digger truck,” he said.

“This valuable addition to our training resources will enable our learners to gain practical knowledge and hone their skills as they prepare for their future careers in the Powerline Technician trade. As our graduates enter the workforce, they will contribute significantly to the development and well-being of Northern Saskatchewan’s communities.”

–

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno