energy operators in the Bakken Oil Fields of southern Saskatchewan. One standout project supported by MERP in 2014-15, and looking to expand in 2016, is the highly successful Jans Bay regional training facility in northwestern Saskatchewan. The training facility is owned and operated by the Wasaw Development Corporation and prepares northern residents for jobs in the oil and gas sector, providing training in catering, security, 1A driving, and preparing them for camp life. “The training facility gives residents from the north the opportunity to take training and improve their skill set for employment in the energy and resource sectors,” says Roxanne Gamble, manager of the facility. “Our facility has already been a tremendous success with job placement to over 90 per cent of our graduates. Without the assistance of CCDF this would not have been possible.” MERP started out as a three-year pilot program and has since become highly successful, creating 112 direct jobs and 350 indirect jobs since its inception. In 2016, $1.9 million has been earmarked for three soon-to-be-approved MERP projects which will result in another 95 direct jobs. The CCDF has grown to an equity base of $32 million with 11 employees in Regina and Saskatoon. The staff are supported by a professional board of directors which includes five Metis voting members and two ex-officio members from the province. “The work of the CCDF has had a huge impact on Métis entrepreneurs and communities. What benefits the Métis people, benefits the whole province,” says Monica Brunet, director of CCDF’s Métis Economic Development Sector. The Métis Economic Development Sector is a portal for information and connects Métis businesses, like those supported by the MERP, with opportunities in Saskatchewan. It includes an online Saskatchewan Metis Business Directory, as well as business matching and community events. “The online Saskatchewan Métis Business Directory currently lists approximately 300 Métis businesses, and many have received contributions and support from the CCDF,” says Brunet. “We’re providing Métis businesses with the support needed to ensure meaningful participation in Saskatchewan’s economy.” v
Noble Well Services Inc.
Box 393 • Arcola, Saskatchewan • S0C 0G0 • noble.well.services@sasktel.net AREA MANAGER Chris Nidesh | 306.577.8793 FIELD SUPERVISOR Shane Ippolito | 306.577.7807 SAFETY CO-ORDINATOR Van Bot | 306.575.8792
Locally owned and operated. Experienced crews. Mobile freestanding equipment. Saskatchewan Oil Report 2016 89