ST. JOHN’S, Newfoundland and Labrador--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bluedrop Learning Networks (Bluedrop) today formally launched a cross-Canada campaign to implement its new eLearning training solution for Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) in the commercial truck driving sector. The training, developed in collaboration with Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI), is already available in Saskatchewan for students beginning their Class 1 license training. It represents the first online solution offered for the in-class portion of the standard MELT program, and Bluedrop is now exploring deployment options in all Provinces.
Bluedrop is a recognized eLearning innovator with a vast array of clients around the globe, including governments, industry groups, and employers that leverage its flagship SkillsPassTM solution to deliver, monitor, and track critical upskilling and industry-specific training. The creation of National Safety Code (NSC) Standard 16 for commercial trucking introduced a standardized MELT requirement. It’s purpose is to help ensure that license applicants possess basic knowledge and driving skills to safely operate a Class 1 commercial vehicle on Canadian roads. The Province of Saskatchewan was an early adopter of MELT, with a formal announcement having been made in 2018 regarding its intent to adhere to the standard.
In January 2021, NSC Standard 16 was amended to allow for digital delivery of the in-class portion of the MELT program. This paved the way for an eLearning solution aimed at advancing MELT delivery, including the provision of improved rural/remote student access and consistency of training and results. Emad Rizkalla, Founder and CEO of Bluedrop shares that the online solution “helps modernize the existing in-class MELT training, improves knowledge outcomes, and offers enhanced security and confidence through the ability to track training and credentials in real-time, at a Provincial and National level.”
The new SkillsPass Online MELTTM solution not only hosts and delivers the interactive training, it also connects Regulators, training providers, students, and all related stakeholders via one online training ecosystem. The ability to easily deliver, update, and track the interactive training is a key differentiator for the solution, and, according to Rizkalla, “is a true game changer for Regulators and MELT training providers as it helps ensure that prospective drivers are prepared consistently, at a very high level of quality, with verifiable driver outcomes.”
Karol Noe, Senior Director, SGI Auto Fund said “Saskatchewan is the first province in Canada to offer an alternative option for students to complete the classroom portion of their Class 1 MELT program. This new online and interactive version of the classroom training offers more flexibility to students, allowing them to access training at any time and at their pace.” The solution will expand access and convenience for the theory portion of the mandatory training, thereby enabling many more people who are considering careers in this critical industry. Added Noe, “this follows through on SGI’s commitment to support higher training standards for commercial semi truck drivers, and to work with eLearning experts like Bluedrop to bring innovative solutions to the industry.”
Bluedrop continues to work collaboratively with SGI on the rollout of the eLearning course to increase awareness and adoption by both training schools and individual students. Contact us directly to learn more about the industry-first SkillsPass Online MELT training solution and how it can help increase Class 1 recruits, drive efficiencies in training delivery, and increase driver knowledge and safety outcomes.
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About Bluedrop
Bluedrop Learning Networks is an industry recognized innovator, and first-to-market eLearning solutions provider with nearly three decades of domestic and international experience in delivering cutting edge solutions to support health and safety certification management, workforce training, and virtual service delivery.
Bluedrop’s flagship solution, SkillsPass™ is a cloud-based Integrated Skills Management (ISM) platform that streamlines training delivery, powers upskilling initiatives, and securely supports the sharing of validated certificates across large multi-stakeholder environments. The solution transforms training execution for governments, industry associations, and employers of all types and sizes, with real-time monitoring and multi-level results tracking. For more information, visit www.bluedroplearningnetworks.com and www.skillspass.com
About SGI
SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance) was created in 1945 and has evolved into 2 distinct operations.The Saskatchewan Auto Fund is the province's compulsory auto insurance program, operating the driver licensing and vehicle registration system. SGI CANADA is the trade name of the property and casualty insurance division of Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) which offers products in 5 of Canada's provinces.
SGI employs over 2,000 people and works with a network of nearly 400 motor licence issuers in Saskatchewan. SGI CANADA works with 414 independent insurance brokerages in 1,340 locations in Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario.