Chelsey and Elmer sit at the podcast table.

Podcast Transcript | S1 E3: "Operations, Maintenance, and Elmer Lickers!"

The following is an auto-generated transcript of an episode of OFNTSC's Podcast "Ontario First Nations Technically Speaking 'Cast" hosted by Chelsey Johnson. In this episode, Operations and Maintenance Supervisor Elmer Lickers discusses the early days of the OFNTSC as well as what the future hold for his service and its programs.
water operation

Sustainable Asset Management Planning For First Nations

Over the past few years, it has become increasingly clear that asset management and the preservation of our community assets is of great importance when it comes to creating healthy and thriving First Nation (FN) communities. Many communities have recently invested substantial resources into the planning and construction of much needed infrastructure such as water & wastewater treatment facilities, schools, housing and fire protection equipment, to name a few...
circular economy chart

The Circular Economy

In this article Heidi Manitowabi Teaches us about 'The Circular Economy. The circular economy is a different way of looking at how we use materials and resources, with an emphasis on the 3R approach: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. The Circular Economy moves beyond the linear approach to a more sustainable, longer-lasting, and higher-value system of use. In the circular economy, products are used in ways that maximize their lifecycle, while reducing waste. This can involve recycling, reusing, repairing, sharing, refurbishing, and more.
the ofntsc logo against a background of snowshoes

Indigenous History Month – Celebrating Indigenous Innovators throughout history

June is National Indigenous History Month, so we’re taking the time to highlight and showcase some of the amazing contributions First Nations peoples have made in the areas of science, technology, engineering, math, and other technical fields. Follow along as we highlight two #IndigenousInnovators, whose impact cannot go unnoticed, on our social media channels each week.
the interior of a water treatment plant

An interview with OFNTSC Circuit Rider Trainer, Jack Brown.

We asked one of our Circuit Rider Trainers, Jack Brown, to answer a few questions for us on what the Circuit Rider Training Program is and why it's so important for First Nations Water Operators to utilize. Check out his responses below! 1. What are the most common issues you see that cause BWAs in First Nations communities?  The most common issues that I have encountered that relate to B.W.A.s are directly related to water distribution system breakdowns. The most common occurrence is usually from a water main break.
An image of an oily fuel spill on pavement, which creates a rainbow like-hue on the black stoney ground.

Why you need to extra careful when handling fuel!

Many people have done it by accident, or on purpose and any person that drives a vehicle, operates a watercraft, uses a lawnmower, chainsaw, etc. uses this product. Today I’m going to provide you with some information on why you shouldn’t pour or spill “it” on the ground and especially not in the water!  Yes, I am talking about Petroleum Products, e.g. (Gasoline, Diesel fuel, engine oil, transmission fluid, etc.). The list is too long to mention all of the products.
An image of Executive Director, melanie debassige

Embracing change. A message from Melanie Debassige

It's a new year, and with it come new projects, new initiatives, new events, new staff, technology, responsibilities, and more! In other words, a lot of change. Over the past twenty-five years, OFNTSC has accomplished so much for our First Nations, but as an organization, the Board structure has not evolved. When I joined OFNTSC as the Executive Director in 2018, it quickly became apparent that a lot of transformation needed to happen if OFNTSC was going to stay relevant and remain essential to the First Nations communities we serve. 
Poster with tools on a table and the title "5 Easy DIY Home Maintenance Tips"

5 DIY Home Maintenance Tips

I know we have all likely spent more time indoors over the past 3 months than normal. That’s why I think it is a good time to take advantage of it by giving your home a little bit of TLC. I have put together a list of 5 home maintenance tips you can do yourself. You may require a few additional tools or materials that you don’t have at home right now but with one trip to the hardware store you could have everything you need.