Building a Stronger Workforce: Supporting Future Talent and Growing Our People
From creating opportunities for the next generation of skilled tradespeople to helping employees expand their expertise, West Fraser is committed to developing the workforce of today and tomorrow.
Workforce development is about more than filling positions – it’s about equipping people with the skills, confidence and support they need to thrive. Across our operations, we are investing in both future talent and the ongoing growth of our current employees. Whether through partnerships with educational institutions, innovative recruitment approaches or training and recognition programs, we are building a foundation for long-term success that benefits our teams, our communities and our business.
Cowie MDF: Engaging Potential Apprentices
Entering the job market and completing initial interviews can be challenging for young people, as nerves may interfere with the opportunity to demonstrate their fit with a role.
To address this apprentice interview challenge, the Engineering and HR teams at our Cowie MDF mill in Scotland developed an innovative process to ensure potential student intern candidates felt at ease while also facilitating an interview that provided direct insights into their alignment with West Fraser’s values and skills.
In April, 40 engineering apprenticeship candidates participated in the new interview process – group interviews. The group interview helps people feel more comfortable, allowing them to demonstrate their skills and interact with our team.
Our Engineering Apprentice group interview days have been a great success, bringing together enthusiastic candidates eager to start their journey with us. Through engaging activities, teamwork challenges and insightful discussions, we’ve identified talented individuals who align with our values and potential for growth.
Lisa M., HR Advisor, U.K.
Contributing to Trades Training
In late January, West Fraser presented the final $50,000 of our three-year $150,000 pledge to Arkansas State University (ASU) Three Rivers to support renovating and expanding their workforce development training space.
West Fraser and ASU Three Rivers have enjoyed a productive relationship for many years. The University is a source of employees for our business and a centre of skills training for many of our local team members, helping strengthen our competitive position in the industry.”
Darren Brkic, Regional Manager
This partnership began in 2017, when ASU Three Rivers provided leadership training to our four Arkansas mills. Since then, it has grown to include delivery of the West Fraser Qualified Millwright and Electrician Training Program for employees in the U.S. South.
“This is an exciting day for ASU Three Rivers,” ASU Three Rivers Chancellor, Dr. Steve Rook said, noting that the partnership between the University and West Fraser was the seed that helped the Workforce Development program grow into such an important facet of what the college now has to offer – both to students and to businesses and organizations whose employees receive essential instruction.
Investing in Employee Growth
At West Fraser, we believe learning doesn’t stop at recruitment. Across our operations, employees are supported in advancing their skills through formal training programs and industry-recognized certifications. From technical training in areas such as sawmilling and wood processing to safety certifications and leadership development, we are committed to helping our people grow their knowledge and achieve their goals.
These investments reflect our belief that developing internal talent not only strengthens our teams but also supports the long-term success of our business and the communities where we operate.
Building a Skilled, Engaged Workforce for the Future
Together, these initiatives demonstrate West Fraser’s commitment to developing a workforce that is skilled, engaged and resilient – now and for the future.
