Aboriginal Youth Coop

Aboriginal Co-op Programs

SUMMER TRAINING PROGRAMS – No commitment to the Armed Forces

All opportunities below are paid positions

The Canadian Armed Forces requires students interested in the RAVEN and BLACK BEAR programs to voluntarily self-identify as First Nation, Metis or Inuit (FNMI).

The Canadian Forces offer two Summer Training Programs that combine military lifestyle with cultural awareness - Raven and Black Bear. These six-week long programs give you a taste of military training with the option - but no commitment - to join the Canadian Forces. The training is based on the Army Reserve Basic Military Qualification and is taught by military instructors. Subjects include General Military Knowledge, Weapons Handling, Navigation, First Aid, Drill, and Survival Skills.

Both Summer Training Programs begin with a 4 day Culture Camp. The camp is designed to ease the transition from civilian to military lifestyle, and focuses on common spiritual beliefs. All Culture Camps are conducted by Elders of different First Nations and Aboriginal groups.

• RAVEN is the Navy’s summer program for Aboriginal Peoples from across Canada. Participants train in Esquimalt, British Columbia.
• BLACK BEAR is an Army training program for Aboriginal Peoples from across Canada that takes place in Oromocto, New Brunswick.

We arrange your travel to and from the program, living accommodations, food, clothing and all equipment. While you are in the program you are temporarily a Canadian Forces member and are paid around $3,500 for completing the full six weeks.

To qualify for the summer training programs, you must have completed at least Grade 10 (15 credits) and be 16 years of age when you apply.

Applications are due by the end of March so that all the arrangements can be made for the beginning of the programs in July. Candidates undergo the Canadian Forces Aptitude Test, a medical, a physical fitness test and an interview before final acceptance.