WINNIPEG, Man. — A group of Manitobans have received Service Excellence Awards for their part in training aboriginals how to operate transport trucks and other heavy equipment.

The South Indian Lake Community Operator Training Team was recognized by Transportation and Government Services for initiating a program that put aboriginals from the region behind the wheels of trucks.

Operator-trainers Jack Barrows, Greg Huff, Tim Milne, Scott Cathcart, Mark Johnston, Craig Newman, Sue Doucette and Wesley Klassen were those recognized by the province for their efforts.

The project stemmed from the South Indian Lake all-weather access road project that was coupled with increased training and employment opportunities for the residents of South Indian Lake. In 2001, the government launched a training program offering instruction in the safe operation of transport trucks and construction equipment.

The team of instructors delivered the training within a tight time frame and implemented a cost-effective training plan that allowed local residents to learn how to safely drive truck.

The nominators said “The program will act as the template for future community-based operator training initiatives undertaken by the department.”