Indigenous advisors promote safe and inclusive workforce lodges

Coastal GasLink has implemented a first-of-its-kind program to enhance the experience of workers – one that places respect for workers, communities and the surrounding environment as a fundamental way of life.

Brianna Adolph is one of these workers. Originally from Grassy Plains, south of Burns Lake, Brianna is living at the 7 Mile Lodge while working as a Construction Monitor and Community Liaison Advisor for the project. “I have to admit, my first time at a lodge has been pretty great. I really like the extra-curricular activities and COVID-19 precautions that they have in place. The room is really nice and the food is great! I’ve enjoyed my time here,” she remarked.

Coastal GasLink’s approach to workforce accommodations has always been to provide a healthy and safe home-away-from-home for its workers. But equally important has been the relationship between the project, its workers and neighbouring communities. That is why Coastal GasLink recently implemented a unique program within its workforce lodges.

Known as the Community Workforce Accommodation Advisor (CWAA) Program, the program is being rolled out in Coastal GasLink’s workforce lodges, and is employing members from neighbouring Indigenous communities to lead programming that promotes inclusion and fosters a deeper understanding of the rich cultures and traditions of Indigenous communities.

Denine Gosselin, one of the program’s coordinators, knows firsthand the opportunities and challenges that come with large-scale projects like Coastal GasLink. For her, she sees the program as a way to leave a positive legacy by fostering respectful and inclusive relationships between workers and the communities along the project route.