New trades training equipment is coming to College of the Rockies to better prepare students for the workplace.

The funding announcement of $160,000 for trades and technology equipment comes during Apprenticeship Recognition Week in British Columbia. This year, Apprenticeship Recognition Week is Nov. 4 to 10.

“Students in the East Kootenay and throughout our province will benefit from new equipment in their trades and technology classrooms and shops,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “Providing students with up-to-date, industry-standard trades and technology training helps us build a 21st-century workforce throughout B.C.”

An apprenticeship in the skilled trades is an important entry point to a long-lasting, good-paying career that will provide opportunities around the province. A key element of apprenticeship is on-the-job training. About 80% is on the job, while 20% is technical learning in the classroom.

“We’re excited for students of College of the Rockies to have more access to new technology and equipment in their classrooms,” said Shelley Gray, interim CEO of the Industry Training Authority (ITA). “Learning on up-to-date equipment will prepare our apprentices with the most current and relevant knowledge to prepare them for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”

The funding will be used to buy new and replace aging trades and technology equipment. Examples of trades training equipment purchased by various post-secondary institutions last year include a used hybrid car for automotive programs, various types of saws for construction trades programs and equipment for culinary programs. Technology equipment purchased last year included iPads, 3D printers and new servers, as well as wind and solar energy training equipment.

“Investments in new equipment and technology in our classrooms are investments in our students and in our communities,” said David Walls, president of the College of the Rockies. “Equipping our students with the best tools ensures they will find rewarding careers and help meet the labour-market demand for skilled tradespeople.”

The $160,000 for College of the Rockies is part of an investment of $3 million in 2018-19 at 19 public post-secondary institutions in new trades and tech training equipment. The funding is allocated for this fiscal year, with the new equipment expected to be in place by April 2019.

This is the fourth year B.C. has proclaimed Apprenticeship Recognition Week to celebrate and recognize apprenticeships and the positive effect they have on individuals, businesses and the economy.

Lead image: COTR’s new trades building Patterson Hall.

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