Circuit Rider Training Program
Clean and potable water in our First Nation communities is a priority for OFNTSC which directs a majority of its resources and energy towards this initiative. CRTP addresses serious health and safety issues related to water and wastewater in First Nation communities. It reduces re-capitalization costs, service interruptions and school and medical station closures. It also improves overall social conditions through better management of water and wastewater facilities.
In partnership with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC), the Circuit Rider Training Program (CRTP) is designed to raise the competency level of operators of water and wastewater systems. It is a site-based, one-on-one and hands-on program tailored to the needs and aptitude of each trainee.
Instruction is conducted by qualified trainers, each with many years of experience as both operators and trainers in water and wastewater systems. All training is done using hands-on applications and demonstration by the trainers. Each stage of development is noted and tracked to ensure a high level of competency in the various areas of the training program. Participation in a basic mathematics course and Occupational Health and Safety Workshop is also required. Recently, the Ontario Environmental Training Consortium approved a further 16.8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for First Nation participants completing the training program.
The trainer then undertakes periodic site training sessions of 1-4 days every 5-6 weeks over a one year period, depending upon the number and complexity of the facilities and the aptitude of the trainee.
The Circuit Rider Training Program has been very successful – limited only by the availability of financial resources. Water and sewage quality has improved and plant operators now work as confident stakeholders in the process.