Students at the University of Victoria (UVic) have saved more than $51,000 through the Open Textbook Project. These educational resources are easily accessed and shared online among students and faculty, and are available in a number of programs including earth and ocean sciences, economics and technology and society.

The Province has proclaimed March 7 as BC Colleges Day. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the critical role colleges in British Columbia play in connecting students of all ages to the education and training they need to secure a prosperous future.

Louie Thomas Sr. is enrolled in Camosun College’s automotive service technician program, but he kick started his education by first taking community-based training. The Getting Ready for Tomorrow program was held at the Esquimalt Nation Band’s office.

Greater numbers of international students are selecting British Columbia as their study destination.

The Ministry of Advanced Education is funding partnerships that connect Aboriginal students with education and training programs in their communities. These programs provide Aboriginal learners with work-ready skills such as basic computer literacy, as well as skills needed for jobs in sectors such as construction, tourism and education.

More than 180 Aboriginal learners in the Vancouver Island – B.C. Coast Region are receiving training in their communities through programs that will prepare them for jobs in sectors such as construction, forestry and eco-tourism.

Thousands of student spaces have been newly targeted over the last three years as operating grants for public post-secondary institutions are aligned with education and training for a variety of in-demand occupations.

Canadians will be better equipped for the well-paying middle-class jobs of today and tomorrow as a result of a $70-million investment in a new health-science centre at Camosun College and a Centre for Environmental Science and International Partnership at Royal Roads University (RRU).

New and expanded buildings are springing up on the campuses of public post-secondary institutions throughout British Columbia.

The start of a new year marks a fresh beginning full of opportunity. If a new job is on your “to-do” list, consider a future in a rewarding career in the trades.