Aboriginal Adult Education and Training: The History of Hydro Development in Manitoba and the Establishment of Atoskiwin Training and Employment Centre in Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation

Event Details

• Monday, August 28, 2023
  1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  online via zoom
  Cost: no cost

The Frost Centre is pleased to announce the following PhD in Canadian Studies Dissertation Defence:

Student: Henk Warnar

Title: Aboriginal Adult Education and Training: The History of Hydro Development in Manitoba and the Establishment of Atoskiwin Training and Employment Centre in Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation

Date: Monday, August 28, 2023 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. EDT

Examining Committee: Prof. Stephen Hill (Supervisor), Prof. Amanda Graham (External Examiner – Yukon University), Prof. Stephanie Rutherford (Internal/External), Prof. David Newhouse, Prof. Frances Abele (Carleton University), Prof. Shauna MacKinnon (University of Manitoba)

Chair: Prof. Karleen Pendleton Jimenez

This defence is open to the public. Please contact frostcentre@trentu.ca for the connection details.

ABSTRACT

This thesis focuses on the Atoskiwin Training and Employment Centre of Excellence (ATEC) in Nelson House, Manitoba, and its contribution to Aboriginal adult education and the economic development of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN). The study examines ATEC within the larger history of NCN's relationship with its land, hydroelectric development in northern Manitoba, and Wahbung: Our Tomorrows, the 1971 alternative blueprint to the federal White Paper. I argue that ATEC has played a key role in nurturing a resurgence of the social and economic capacity of people in Nelson House.

The research approach used in this study is ethnographic, drawing on the researcher's lived experiences and relationships with the community and ATEC. Supporting qualitative data were collected through interviews with ATEC staff and students, allowing for an in-depth exploration of their experiences, perspectives, and the impact of ATEC on their lives and employment opportunities. The thesis examines the historical context of ATEC. It also explores the challenges and achievements of ATEC during two distinct phases: the initial phase focused on training for skilled and unskilled laborers during the construction of the Wuskwatim hydroelectric dam, and the subsequent phase after the dam's completion.

The research sheds light on how ATEC has contributed to the economic and social capacity of Nelson House, analyzing its impact on community development and employment opportunities. It also addresses the need for greater control, infrastructure and resources for Aboriginal adult education in rural and northern areas. The thesis concludes by discussing the findings and suggesting potential areas for improvement and growth in ATEC's programming and delivery methods.

Contact Info

Please contact the Frost Centre at frostcentre@trentu.ca for connection details, or any questions.