Two Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) employees have achieved certifications to train the next generation of heavy equipment operators locally. Gavin Day and Daniel Moon completed two weeks of advanced training at Caterpillar’s Tinaja Hills Demonstration and Learning Center in Tucson, Arizona., and returned to Tahltan Territory with globally recognized certifications in Hydraulic Excavator (HEX) and Track Type Tractor (TTT).
According to TNDC, Day also made history by becoming the first person in Canada to achieve the practical portion of Caterpillar’s Level 3 in-house certification for HEX. “This is a huge achievement, not only for me but for the company,” said Day. “We can now create operators who comply with Caterpillar’s high standards on both safety and operating skills. We are very excited to bring back the knowledge we received to the Tahltan Nation.”
The certifications are part of TNDC’s Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) Training Program, which combines hands-on equipment training, work experience, and camp life exposure. Supported by the Government of BC and industry partner Finning Canada, the program addresses the long-standing need for skilled operators while creating opportunities within Tahltan Territory.
TNDC’s strategic partnership with Finning Canada has been instrumental in developing this capacity, as it provides training and operational support to improve productivity, reduce equipment wear, and extend fleet lifespan. The certifications achieved by Day and Moon are key to advancing TNDC’s goals, and are expected to sustain the Tahltan HEO Program’s mission of building expertise and creating career opportunities.
Moon expressed gratitude for the experience and its potential impact. “I cannot thank TNDC, CAT Finning, and all the people who made this special opportunity happen. I plan on passing this knowledge on to the younger generation and the future of this company,” Moon said.
TNDC CEO Todd den Engelsen highlighted the importance of the achievement. “The skills they have gained will advance TNDC’s reputation as a trusted partner to our clients and help us uphold our commitment to building trust – building futures,” he said.
