Cranbrook Making new connections The Business Expo and Job Fair opened doors for everyone by WHITNEY BLACK
A ROOMFUL OF OPPORTUNITY: Students crowded the booths on display in the COTR gymnasium for the first Business Expo and Job Fair on March 27. —photo by Kris Linblad
The gymnasium at College of the Rockies (COTR) was transformed on March 27 into a place for networking, recruiting and job hunting as the first ever Business Expo and Job Fair took place.
Employers, potential employees, business people and local politicians attended the event and took the opportunity to network with each other.
Chamber luncheon
Before the students and other job seekers descended on the gymnasium, the Cranbrook and District Chamber of Commerce held their monthly luncheon. Chamber members gathered to listen to guest speakers talk on a number of issues.
COTR’s dean of instruction, Dr. Ardy Smith Miller spoke to the members about the expansions going on at the college as well as the newly announced second campus that will be built in Cranbrook. Dr. Smith Miller confirmed that the new expansion happening at the college was both on schedule and budget and would be open in September barring any unexpected delays.
Staff Sergeant Brian Edmunson of the local RCMP came before the chamber to warn the members of the costs associated with false alarm calls to the police. He appealed to the chamber and the members of city council present for a new bylaw to cut the numbers of false alarms.
Special guest speaker Greg Deck, the chairman of the Regional District East Kootenay (RDEK) spoke on the current trends in housing and population. Deck spoke of the current trend of increasing housing and decreasing population in most of the cities in the East Kootenay. The most plausible reason for these statistics that Deck presented could be attributed to the raise in part-time residents from outside the region purchasing second homes in the mountains.
Deck proposed to the audience that city councils would have to work together to keep the development growing while keeping the price of real estate low enough for local residents.
Seeking employment
The local business community were not the only ones benefitting from the event. Students from the college as well as the Mount Baker Secondary School were invited to attend the job fair after the luncheon.
Students were given a chance to explore the different kinds of employment available to them in Cranbrook and the surrounding area.
“It was great for the students to have the opportunity to do their summer job search,” said Donna Kraus-Hagerman, manager of marketing and community relations at COTR. “It was wonderful. With so many different businesses there was great variety for them.”
The college also took the opportunity to showcase the programs available to the students who were looking at attending college next year.
“If students were interested in a certain career they could learn what they would need education wise to pursue those careers.” Kraus-Hagerman said.
Aside from summer employment and educational information college students looking for employment in their field were able to network with some of the employers in the area.
“Having so many different businesses in one place was great,” said Kraus-Hagerman. “It gave students a chance to speak to businesses about their career desires and thought and get some direction that way.
Business community members were also invited to learn more about COTR’s continuing education programs at the booth set up as well.
“There was a lot of different dialogues taking place on a lot of different levels. It was fantastic,” Kraus-Hagerman said. “I think that it was great this year and it can be even better in subsequent years. We would love to do it again.’
Key Cranbrook contacts
A new way of living Shadow Mountain Golf Community will be a gated lifestyle community located three minutes from the Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook, B.C. This private gated community will be situated on 580 acres of land that will include a 19-hole, 7,400-yard championship golf course, practice academy, clubhouse and approximately 600 properties with residential lot sizes ranging from 6,000 to 11,000 square feet and acreage lots from half- to one-acre parcels. Owners will enjoy views of the golf course, river and surrounding mountains.
Specialty Cut Lumber For Sale! The Tobacco Plains Sawmill caters to hobbyists and others in need of specialty cut sizes of lumber. Most of the mill's lumber is made from pine and fir. The lumber is rough cut but can be planed, if needed. The sawmill is owned and operated by the Tobacco Plains Indian Band, one of seven bands of the Ktunaza Nation, in Grassmere, B.C. Contact the band for lumber prices or for information about the band's other business ventures: the Tobacco Plains Duty Free Shop and Edwards Lake Campground
Tobacco Plains Band Sawmill Grasmere, BC PHONE: (250) 887-3461
WEBSITE:
We make your house a home A family owned and operated business, the Bedroom Furniture Galleries has 20,000 square feet of unique showroom space. Whether you're searching for sofas and loveseats, tables and chairs or mattresses, dressers, lamps, mirrors and other home accents, the Bedroom Furniture Galleries has beautiful furnishings for every room in your home. We offer a 60-day home comfort guarantee on everything we sell. If you're not completely happy with your purchase let us know and we'll be glad to find you something else or refund your money.
The Bedroom Furniture Galleries 813 Baker St Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-2316
WEBSITE:
Your bridge construction specialists Johnston Construction has undertaken a wide variety of projects all over Western Canada over the past 30 years, including the rehabilitation of the Waneta Bridge on Highway 22A south of Trail. Our projects have ranged from simple rental bridge installations to pile driving and caisson installation sub-contracts to complex multi-million dollar design-build construction projects. We are committed to providing exceptional quality work and maintaining positive client relationships.
Johnston Construction Galloway, BC PHONE: (250) 429-3419
WEBSITE:
Freedom. Comfort. Peace of mind. When was the last time you leapt a tall building in a single bound? Unless you like spandex, capes and an undisturbed moment in a phone booth, you probably need insurance. Falkins is proud to offer the same great professional service we've provided to the Kootenay region for more than 100 years. Visit us anytime to talk about your insurance needs. With or without your cape.
Falkins Insurance Group Ltd 907 Baker St. Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-2205
WEBSITE:
On the forefront Selkirk Metals owns three excellent properties (LJ, Kneb and Ghost Properties) all within a short distance of Revelstoke, B.C., just north of TeckCominco's Trail smelter. The properties are located within the productive Kootenay Arch carbonate belt of zinc-lead-silver mineralization. The proximity to the Trail zinc-lead-silver smelter complex enhances the economic potential of any discovery made within these properties.
Selkirk Metals Suite 800 1199 West Hasting St Vancouver, BC PHONE: (604) 687-2038
WEBSITE:
Elk Valley Coal Corporation Our company is a global leader in the production and sale of hard coking coal...a relatively uncommon mineral that is essential in the production of steel. With six mines in two Canadian provinces, more than 3,000 employees and a business focused on supplying world steel producers, our company is strongly positioned in a very competitive market.
The Fording River operation is located in the Elk Valley region of southeastern British Columbia, 29 kilometres northeast of the town of Elkford. The minesite is comprised of 20,304 hectares of coal lands of which 3,592 hectares are currently being mined or are scheduled for mining.
Elk Valley Coal Corporation - Fording River Operations PO Box 5000 Elkford, BC PHONE: (250) 865-5103
WEBSITE:
Join us in building a nation! As a nation, we are striving to achieve strong, healthy citizens and communities, speaking our languages and celebrating who we are and our history in our ancestral homelands, working together, managing our lands and resources, as a self-sufficient, self-governing nation.
Ktunaxa Nation Council 7968 Mission Rd Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 417-4022
WEBSITE:
Believe. Strive. Achieve. Synergy Fitness & Training Centre is a results- and performance-oriented facility. We offer professional instruction to every member during every workout. Housed with state-of-the-art equipment, our facility has a group weights area, several multi functional stations and many cardio machines. We offer a wide range of classes and programs, including corporate packages, group exercise classes, ladies outdoor boot camp, seniors’ programs, personal training and small group training. Whatever your goals are, we will help you achieve them safely, effectively and in a timely fashion.
Synergy Fitness Systems 209-16Th Ave N Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 489-4211
WEBSITE:
Reaching MAX potential Roca Mines Inc. is focused on the outstanding mineral exploration and development potential located within British Columbia. Roca's primary asset is the MAX Molybdenum Project, located 60 kilometres southeast of Revelstoke, B.C. MAX is Canada's first new primary molybdenum mine in more than 30 years and B.C.'s first brand new metal mine in a decade. Regional economic benefits have already been realized, with community well-being and employee health as our primary goals Local environmental protection and community involvement are cornerstones to our success. Initial molybdenum concentrate production from the MAX Mine commenced in late 2007. Roca Mines Inc., and our wholly-owned subsidiary, FortyTwo Metals Inc., thank everyone who has taken part in building this exciting B.C.-based project.
Roca Mines Ltd 490 - 1122 Mainland St Vancouver, BC PHONE: (604) 684-2900
WEBSITE:
You can do it. We can help. Whether you need hardware and building supplies, kitchen cabinets, lighting fixtures, hardwood flooring, window coverings, floor coverings, appliances or equipment rental, The Home Depot has got you covered. We provide our customers with outstanding services, as well as convenience, value, quality, and product and project know-how.
The Home Depot Canada 2000 Mcphee Rd Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 420-4250
WEBSITE:
Cummins Western Canada Cummins products can be found in nearly every type of vehicle, from the heavy-duty diesel-powered trucks that travel the world's highways, to tractors that till the soil, large trucks that carry natural resources from the mine and vessels that travel the waterways. Cummins-built generators supply both prime and auxiliary power around the globe. Filters and related products help engines run cleaner and more efficiently. A network of distributors provide repair and maintenance service for customers worldwide.
Cummins Western Canada Sparwood, BC
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Gateway to Adventure Radium Hot Springs has it all: unlimited outdoor activities, fine dining, golfing, skiing, natural hot springs pools and the most beautiful scenery you can imagine. Located on the warm side of the Canadian Rockies, Radium Hot Springs is British Columbia’s best mountain getaway village. A short three-hour drive from Calgary, Alberta, at the south entrance of Kootenay National Park, this mountain village has something to please everyone’s tastes.
Radium Hot Springs Chamber Of Commerce Radium, BC PHONE: (250) 347-9331
WEBSITE:
Start with a solid foundation Specialists for residential and commercial concrete work, MDM Foundation was started in 1992 and has been growing ever since.The majority of our crews have been with us since we started and have many years of experience in the cribbing industry. MDM Foundation takes pride in its workmanship and is known for its ability to complete projects quickly. We have built our reputation on these qualities and now look forward to being of service in the Kootenay area. Remember: A solid foundation is always a good start.
MDM Foundation 8059 Coronet RD Edmonton, AB PHONE: (780) 466-1450
WEBSITE:
Live in Nature. Play in Nature. Kootenay Lake Village is a one-of-a-kind waterfront development being created on 450 acres of beautiful forestland with almost three kilometres of shoreline on the spectacular and expansive Kootenay Lake. One-hundred-year-old forests still cover much of this outstanding property, which receives long hours of sunshine. Experience the breathtaking views of the lake and alpine peaks of the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges year round. Adjoining Kootenay Lake Village are fifty kilometers of undeveloped, pristine waterfront real estate and an abundance of secluded beaches.
Kootenay Lake Development Corp. (kootenay Lake Village) Po Box 1053 Nelson, BC PHONE: (250) 505-5558
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Old Tyme Spa & Flame Ltd. Old Tyme Spa & Flame Ltd. is a specialty business located in Cranbrook, British Columbia. The focus of our company is to provide top quality gas- and wood-burning fireplaces, premium spas, one-of-a-kind pools and Bio Guard pool and spa chemicals. We are now selling hammocks from Jobek. Old Tyme Spa & Flame is growing bigger and stronger in the East Kootenay region each year—thanks to the boundless energy of sole owner Oralie Girard. Her knowledge, honesty, belief in her products, expertise in the industry and exceptional customer service are the reasons why Oralie's customers continue to come back and recommend shopping at Old Tyme.
Old Tyme Spa & Flame Ltd. 1608 Cranbrook Street North Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-7093
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All your paving needs Selkirk Paving—a Division of Interoute Construction Ltd.—in Invermere handles everything from driveways and parking lots to roadwork and excavation. Our services include ready-mixed concrete, sand and gravel, trucking, asphalt paving and repairs and concrete pumping needs.
Selkirk Paving Invermere, BC PHONE: (250) 342-6500 WEBSITE:
Drywall contracting Whether it's industrial, residential or commercial, contact Murray Brothers Drywall for all your drywall needs. We handle T bor, steel studs, boarding and taping. Murray Brothers is proud to have worked on the Ridge at Copper Point in Invermere.
Murray Brothers Drywall Invermere, BC PHONE: (250) 341-3454 WEBSITE:
Thinking of upgrading your building? With many new businesses being developed in Cranbrook, Steeples Construction (2005) Ltd. has certainly been busy. Three major projects our company has built this year are the new Starbucks on the Strip, the new offices for Zion Trucking and the new Maple Leaf Forestry building. These projects are representative of the tremendous growth that the Kootenays are seeing and we are pleased to be playing a role in the region's economic prosperity and progress. As a general contracting company, Steeples Construction takes charge of the building, framing, foundation and finishing work for its clients. Our good reputation and dedication to quality control ensure your projects are completed when needed.
Steeples Construction (2005) Ltd 135b 6th Ave S Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 489-1617 WEBSITE:
All Weather Windows Bay 1-8241 30 ST SE Calgary, AB PHONE: (403) 720-0022 WEBSITE: www.allweatherwindows.com
Boosting education in the Rockies With expansions nearly complete, College of the Rockies prepares for a new era. The grand opening of Pinnacle Hall and Summit Hall—COTR's new trades building and academic expansion—will be celebrated this fall. This expansion, coupled with the recently opened Gold Creek campus, bring amazing new possibilities to the college, the community and the region while addressing the current labour shortage. The recent expansion increases the campus size by between 25 and 30 per cent, and the changes enhance the college's evolving programs. Trades programs are also expanded with the opening of the new Pinnacle Hall and Gold Creek campus. The college is also becoming more involved in projects that heighten awareness of global issues as well as providing opportunities for students to take further courses abroad that are still connected to their studies at COTR.
College Of The Rockies Po Box 8500 Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 489-2751
WEBSITE:
Ostash Exterior Building Products Ltd 1200 Cobham Avenue W. Cranbrook, B.C. PHONE: (250) 426-7146 WEBSITE:
Can Pro Railings Suite 440 10816 Macleod TR SE Calgary, AB PHONE: (403) 975-7245 WEBSITE:
A legacy for the people Created by the people, for the people, the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) serves the residents of the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin. Working closely with people who live in the Basin, CBT assists communities in addressing their needs by: providing resources and funding; focusing on local priorities and issues; bringing people together around key issues; providing useful, credible, accessible information; encouraging collaboration and partnerships; and seeking ongoing input from Basin residents. Learn more about our work online at www.cbt.org.
Columbia Basin Trust 828D Baker Street Cranbrook, B.C. PHONE: (250) 426-1103
WEBSITE:
Historic Manual Training School Host your event comfortably and affordably, with all the amenities to make it memorable. The Manual Training School Meeting & Small Conference Centre is the ideal setting for your next meeting, workshop, small conference or corporate retreat. It is managed by the Cranbrook Public Library. One of Cranbrook's finest historic buildings, its interior was recently renovated by the City of Cranbrook and it is fully equipped with these amenities: eight conference tables, 40 chairs, two podiums, a kitchenette, two washrooms, a projection screen, whiteboard, corkboard and AV equipment (extra charge).
Cranbrook Public Library 1212 2nd St. N. Cranbrook, B.C. PHONE: (250) 426-4063 WEBSITE: www.cranbrookpubliclibrary.ca
Columbia Power Corporation At Columbia Power Corporation (CPC), we believe in creating long-term jobs and economic and social benefits through environmentally-sound power projects. Pursuant to the Columbia Basin Accord signed in 1995, the primary mandate of CPC is to undertake power project investments as the agent of the province on a joint venture basis with the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT). The joint venture partnership is contributing to the economic, environmental and social well-being of the Columbia Basin by planning, acquiring and developing power projects in the region.
Columbia Power Corporation 200 - 445 13th Ave Castlegar, BC PHONE: (250) 365-8545
WEBSITE:
Long Valley Steel LTD. 1600 Theatre Rd Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-3817 WEBSITE:
Cyclonomics NA Ltd 1111 Jamieson Ave NE Calgary, AB PHONE: (403) 542-7650 WEBSITE: www.slokker.ca
Ag Steel Ltd Po Box 95 Welling, AB PHONE: (403) 752-3775 WEBSITE:
EK Transmission Ltd. 1019 Kootenay St. N. Cranbook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-4157 WEBSITE:
Salvador Ready Mix 301 King St NW Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-7283 WEBSITE: www.salvador-readymix.com
Dueck Enterprises 416 15Th Ave S Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-5460 WEBSITE:
Napa Auto Parts (Cranbrook) 1001 Industrial Rd # 2 Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-8282 WEBSITE: www.napaonlinecanada.com
A.c. Dyck Financial Services Inc (westpro Benefit Systems) 202-135 10th Ave. S Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 426-4949 WEBSITE: www.westprobenefits.com
Gracom Masonry Western 7216 Brown St Delta, BC PHONE: (604) 952-0222 WEBSITE: www.gracommasonry.com
The New Pro-Fitness Gym 37 9th Ave S Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 489-1123 WEBSITE:
Ugly Trucks Unlimited 316 Van Horne St S Cranbrook, BC PHONE: (250) 417-0539 WEBSITE: www.uglytrucks.net
