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B.C. bolsters advanced wood manufacturing in Kamloops

New financial support for engineered wood production in Kamloops will protect and create forestry jobs, promote the development of high-quality, made-in-B.C. forest products and strengthen the local economy.

Through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF), the Government of B.C. is contributing up to $8 million to help Tolko Industries expand its Heffley Creek operation, including construction of a facility that will house a new Heffley Creek Engineered Wood Division.

The capital project will diversify the mill’s current production beyond commodity plywood to include specialty, industrial and engineered wood products. This includes products to support new home construction, as well as commercial, furniture, millwork, door and window, and non-residential building systems. The expansion will help maintain approximately 250 direct roles at the Heffley site and is expected to create 20 new jobs.

In addition to this funding, the province is also providing up to $45,760 in BCMJF funding to support Tolko’s Lake Country Division to explore the use of robotics in the production of non- residential, made-in-B.C. wood products.

“Tolko’s history began, and remains, strongly rooted in B.C. For over 65 years, we’ve continued to innovate and grow, and through this expansion, we’re proud to not only build on our suite of value-added products, but also support associated jobs through the integration of our business,” said Brad Thorlakson, president and CEO, Tolko Industries.