Dear members and colleagues,

We had a very good meeting of the Board of Directors on the 27^th of September. The main purpose of the meeting was to discuss the last AGM and how we plan to focus on our priorities going forward. Our priorities are simple, really and I’ll list them here so that you can appreciate the work that has yet to be done. The priorities are:

1. Fill the October 31^st pilot Level One training program with good students. We currently have seven students committed but ideally we would like to see at least 12 and preferably 16 students in the program. These students will come from BCPCA member companies.
2. Expand our BCPCA membership from the current level of 25. There are more than 80 businesses operating in our industry in British Columbia.
3. Maintain communication with government departments, both at the Provincial and Federal level, and discuss the need for standards for our industry to help prevent potentially dangerous incidents involving the environment and health and safety.
4. Make the training material (modules) that we developed through ITA and CITO available to BCPCA members and those in our industry so that technicians with the requisite hours can challenge the ITA exams and obtain their Certificate of Qualification in BC.

These are straight forward priorities that are achievable and committees have been established with board members to take these on. We would be pleased if other members would like to participate with the board members on these initiatives and people are asked to volunteer by e-mail to info@bcpetroleum.com.

It seems to me the obvious choice to join an organization that has established the first government sanctioned and registered training program with trade status for Petroleum Technicians in North America. Companies in our industry are now being asked to produce trade certificates in British Columbia by general contractors to prove that they have capable technicians. This will spread. The Federal Government requires proof of industry trade certification to work on fuel systems on Federal and Native lands. You have the opportunity to participate in the benefits that the Board of Directors and others have created for this industry by getting involved in the BCPCA.

There are over 50 technicians holding Certificates of Qualification (COQ) in BC and more technicians are challenging the exams this month and next. They all work for progressive companies whose owners recognize the benefits of setting standards for the industry. BCPCA is succeeding in a big way. We are well managed and have enthusiastic industry leaders at the helm. The PEI is watching our progress with strong interest because we have achieved success where others have failed.

Please take time to consider joining BCPCA, or if you are already a member getting involved with one of our committees. You are welcome to contact current members or board members to discuss your concerns or ask questions.

Sincerely,

Rob Bateman
President, BCPCA