Local Indigenous youth named one of forestry's best and brightest

Wednesday in Ottawa, the Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) in partnership with the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM), presented the Skills Award for Aboriginal Youth to Aaron Jones of Garden River First Nation.

The Skills Award for Aboriginal Youth is open to First Nations, Métis or Inuit individuals aged 18 to 30 who are enrolled in an apprenticeship program, college or university, with strong academic standing, and a demonstrated commitment to their field of study and a career in the revitalized forest sector.

Aaron is currently in his second year at Sault College studying Natural Environment Technology. This summer, he plans to work with the Ministery of Natural Resources and Forestry as an assistant resource management technician, assisting with a study on regrowth after logging operations. Aaron has also been a cave and kayak guide, helping educate others about coastal rainforest ecosystems and the large trees that occupy them. Aaron plans to pursue a career in the forest sector after he receives his diploma next year.

Aaron moved back to the Garden River First Nation in 2016 to live close to his family on his family’s traditional land. Aaron is committed to his community and to looking after the natural environment on his reserve, participating in culturally valuable hunting trips with his family and community, maintaining hiking trails, trapping, and carrying out select cut logging for cedar trees. Aaron says his family has been logging for as long as anyone can remember and he is now looking after the traditional cedar swamp that his family has always logged in.

"As leaders, workers, and students in the forest industry, we are at the front line of conservation,” said Jones in a release issued Wednesday. "Let’s always keep in mind economic, environmental, and social needs of our land, so that this industry thrives for many generations to come."

“The award winners exemplify dedication to their academic work and the communities in which they live, and a commitment to forestry and a future career in the industry,” said the Honourable Margaret Miller, minister of Natural Resources for Nova Scotia, and chair of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers.

The Skills Award for Aboriginal Youth builds on the FPAC Aboriginal Business Leadership Award which recognizes and celebrates Aboriginal entrepreneurs for success in a forest products business.

To see the full list of award recipients, please visit here.