By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

A local construction company has announced it is preparing to hire more than 140 workers for the early construction phase of a  $200m Exuma resort.

Bahamas Industries and Construction Company (BICCo), the local general contractor for the project, said it has already identified and screened 146 prospective employees — 65 percent of whom are from the Exumas, with the remainder primarily from New Providence and Grand Bahama.

In a statement issued yesterday, BICCo said initial hires will fill roles such as dump truck drivers, heavy equipment operators, security personnel, cooks, and kitchen helpers.

“As a general contractor for the project’s early construction phase, BICCo has already identified and screened 146 prospective employees, with 65 percent hailing from the Exumas and the remainder primarily from New Providence and Grand Bahama. Initial hiring includes roles such as dump truck drivers, heavy equipment operators, security personnel, cooks, and kitchen helpers,” said BICCo’s statement.

Sandlee Brutus, owner of BICCo, said working with Yntegra Group, the project’s developer, is a “red-letter day” due to the project’s potential economic impact and the opportunity to provide meaningful employment opportunities for locals.

“For BICCo, partnering with the Yntegra Group on this project has truly been a red-letter day — not just for the economic opportunities it brings, but because we share so many of the same values,” said Mr Brutus.

“From creating meaningful employment and empowering Bahamians, to prioritising sustainability, protecting the environment, and fostering genuine collaboration with the community, we are aligned in purpose.”

He said the company has seen strong anticipation from residents, with many asking when work will begin on-site.

“People are excited. The number one question we get is, ‘When are we starting?’,” said Mr Brutus.

“This project is more than jobs — it’s about empowerment, skills development, and long-term growth for our communities.”

Felipe MacLean, Yntegra Group’s chief executive, said the decision to work with a Bahamian contractor reinforces the group’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

“Yntegra is proud to be working with Bahamas Industries, a trusted Bahamian company, helping us deliver on our commitment to work with local businesses, hire locally and create meaningful opportunities for residents of the Exuma Cays,” said Mr MacLean.

“This partnership is another example of us keeping the commitments we have made to the Exumas and The Bahamas. From day one, we’ve listened, engaged, and designed this project alongside the community. We look forward to continuing our progress through partnership, integrity, and with a long-term commitment to progress that benefits Bahamians.”

According to BICCo, the Rosewood Exuma project comes at a “critical time” for the Exumas. While Exuma is experiencing record-high employment levels, many residents in more remote settlements still lack access to training.

The company will provide on-the-job training for skilled workers, allowing them to transfer their new skills to other employment opportunities

“BICCo has worked closely with local government and community leaders in Black Point and Staniel Cay to share hiring opportunities with residents and prepare for the construction phase. Their efforts come at a critical time, as Exuma experiences record-high employment, yet continues to face limited upskilling pathways in remote settlements,” said BICCo.

“With job creation as a central focus, BICCo also emphasises the value of on-the-job training for equipment operators, mechanics, and trades specialists, giving residents a chance to develop in-demand skills that will serve them well beyond this project.”

The Yntegra project has faced opposition - including from a group called the Save Exuma Alliance (SEA), which has raised environmental concerns about the development as well as questions about the consultation process, and whether the project is the right fit for Big Sampson Cay.