CANADA, January 15 - Michael Armstrong, vice-president and chief forester, BC Council of Forest Industries –

“The uptake of the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund demonstrates the commitment of forest-product companies to invest in B.C. operations, supporting jobs and strengthening communities across the province. By enabling investments in local manufacturing, the BCMJF fosters innovation, encourages product diversification, improves biomass utilization and reduces waste. A predictable supply of fibre is crucial to the success of these initiatives, ensuring sustainable job creation and economic prosperity in urban and rural communities alike.”

Jeremy Hamm, general manager, Cedarland Forest Products –

“Support from the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund will help Cedarland install new advanced equipment, keeping us on the leading edge of remanufacturing. We will now be able to produce high-end finished products from a variety of B.C. species, while adding value every step of the way.”

Greg Smith, president, Gilbert Smith Forest Products Ltd. –

“Gilbert Smith Forest Products Ltd. gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund. This project will allow us to maintain our permanent primary manufacturing jobs, along with solidifying the newly created remanufacturing jobs supplied by expanded species offerings, and higher value products.”

Sukhi Brar, president, Advance Lumber Remanufacturing Ltd. –

“This funding from the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund is helping us invest in advanced technology to increase capacity, accelerate processing, and create more value-added products by giving low-grade lumber a new life as high-quality pallets. We’re driving innovation and supporting sustainability in B.C.’s manufacturing and forestry industries by keeping lumber and jobs in the province, while creating new employment opportunities as we expand.” 

Paul Donald, CEO, Simpcw Resources Group –

“Securing funding for the electric log loader and de-wrapping station project is a monumental step forward for our operations at River City Fibre. Working with the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund was a pleasure because the BCMJF demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges facing our industry and a genuine commitment to supporting solutions that matter. This project not only strengthens an industry in desperate need of innovation, but it also shows how efficiency and decarbonization can happen simultaneously.” 

Kevin Wallis, vice-president, engineered building components, PBS Truss MFG Ltd. –

“We are very grateful for the financial support from the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund. We believe our manufacture and supply of high-quality engineered building components will reduce construction time for single- and multi-family homes that will help address the housing shortage in British Columbia.”

James Code, CFO, Kootenay Wood Preservers –

“We are grateful for the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund's financial support. We're thrilled to build an advanced manufacturing facility using innovative technologies like automated fibre scanning and sorting systems. These enhancements optimize resource utilization and reduce waste, supporting sustainability. Additionally, our team can produce high-quality, value-added fibre posts and poles with enhanced workplace safety and job satisfaction.” 

Brian Greensdale, operations manager, Acutruss Industries Ltd. –

“We are grateful for the support provided by the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund. This funding will help with investments in our I-Joist manufacturing equipment, allowing us to broaden the range of value-added products available to our customers, improve productivity and generate high-skill employment opportunities. These elements are crucial to maintaining our competitive edge and ensuring our long-term sustainability.”