(VANCOUVER, BC) May 11, 2026. As BC’s forest sector continues to evolve, helping students understand career opportunities in modern forestry remains important. The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) welcomes new support from Forestry Innovation Investment (FII) for COFI’s Forest Education Program, helping expand career awareness and workforce initiatives focused on modern forestry and wood products manufacturing. The program will connect students and job seekers with opportunities in the modern, high-tech forest sector through sawmill and manufacturing awareness events, Indigenous career events, career fairs, and trade and technology awareness initiatives.
Delivered in partnership with COFI member companies, Indigenous organizations, school districts, training providers, and community partners, these initiatives are designed to increase awareness of the many career opportunities available in today’s forest sector. Through guided mill tours, classroom presentations, field tours, and career fairs, participants will gain direct exposure to local forestry operations and the technologies driving the industry, including advanced manufacturing, automation, and digital systems. The program gives participants the opportunity to experience active forestry and manufacturing operations firsthand while exploring the skilled trades, technical roles, and diverse career pathways available across the sector.
“These initiatives help connect young people directly with the workers, technologies, and career pathways shaping the future of forestry” said Kim Haakstad, President & CEO of COFI. “Forestry today is an innovative, technology-driven sector that offers rewarding career opportunities in communities across British Columbia.”
In addition to the FII-supported initiatives, COFI also offers Forestry Scholarships funded by member companies for students across BC pursuing forestry-related programs, including training in skilled trades. The scholarships are available to students from all regions of BC and are intended to help advance their education and career aspirations. The deadline to apply is June 26, and students can learn more at COFI Forestry Scholarship.
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About the BC Council of Forest Industries
The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) is the voice of the BC forest industry. COFI members produce lumber, pulp and paper, panels, and engineered wood products at operations across the province. COFI works to support a healthy, sustainable, and globally competitive forest sector that provides family-supporting jobs and economic benefits for communities throughout BC.
Media Contact:
Travis Joern, Director of Communications & Events, COFI
Joern@cofi.org