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(Prince George, BC) – The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) is pleased to announce the recipients of the COFI’s 2018 Forestry Scholarships in celebration of the future of forestry during National Forest Week taking place across the country from September 23-29.

“National Forest Week is an opportunity to recognize the 1 in 17 British Columbian workers whose jobs are supported by this valuable and renewable resource in all regions of the province,” said Susan Yurkovich, COFI President and CEO. “This is an industry with a strong history and bright future. Forestry generates 140,000 total jobs in B.C. while leading the world in sustainable forestry practices. We are proud to support the next generation in continuing their education in forestry and advancing further research and innovation.”

The B.C. forest sector is hiring more than 25,000 people in the coming decade in communities around the province. To support training and recruitment to the sector, COFI awards ten scholarships to students who are enrolled at specific post-secondary institutions with the goal of pursuing a professional, technical or trades career in the forest sector.

“The forest industry needs bright, young minds and our industry offers diverse career opportunities in manufacturing, environmental management, technology, trades and professional services,” added Yurkovich.

COFI congratulates the 10 recipients of the 2018 Forestry Scholarship:

  • Garet Anderson, Prince George
  • Alex Von Geyer, Prince George
  • Brooklynn Pearson, Vanderhoof
  • Daniel Burgel, Nelson
  • Sonja Hadden, 100 Mile House
  • Jaydegh Billingsley, Quesnel
  • Katie Hall, Prince George
  • Emma Peasgood, Chetwynd
  • Brianne Ghuman, Smithers
  • Sheldon VanSickle, Barriere

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About the COFI’s Forest Education Program

COFI’s Forest Education Program is an award-winning program for students from Grades 5-12 in the northern interior of British Columbia. The goal of the program is to provide current information for educators and students about BC’s rich, world-class forest resources and the educational and career opportunities that are possible in our province’s forests and manufacturing facilities.

About the BC Council of Forest Industries

The BC Council of Forest Industries is the voice of the BC forest industry. COFI members produce lumber, pulp and paper, panels and engineered wood products at facilities across the province. All share a commitment to a future based on employee safety, sustainable forestry and manufacturing practices, and innovative product development.

Media contact:
Natali McGladrey
778.919.9677