The government of B.C. is investing more than $787,000 in new skills training equipment at Selkirk College.

The funding is part of a $17-million provincewide Skills and Training Plan investment to support public post-secondary institutions to upgrade equipment and put the latest tools in the hands of B.C. students.

Equipment purchases and replacements at each institution are based upon a review and analysis of existing inventory, current and future program and industry requirements, and current government priorities to provide skills training that is aligned to the needs of the economy in each region.

Institutions will also pursue partnerships with local industries and other stakeholders to purchase or donate equipment, ensuring students continue to train on the latest equipment being used in the workplace.

The type of equipment slated for new purchase or replacement at Selkirk College - unless otherwise donated from industry partners - includes a variety of industrial vehicles for the heavy-duty/commercial transport mechanic program, shop pieces for the automotive service technician garage, and machinery for the carpentry, millwrights and metal fabricator (fitter) programs.

Quotes:

John Yap, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology -

"Under the BC Jobs Plan and our Skills and Training Plan, we're taking action to provide education and training opportunities aligned with the needs of our economy."

"This provincial investment, coupled with contributions from private industry partners, will ensure students are training on the same calibre of equipment their employers will be asking them to work on after graduation."

Angus Graeme, president, Selkirk College -

"This investment by the Province is very timely and really appreciated. New capital equipment for our trades program will enable Selkirk College to provide learners with an environment that reflects today's work place. Investments in regional postsecondary education will help Selkirk College to meet both local and provincial workforce development needs."

Quick Facts:

• In August 2012, the B.C. government announced $556,000 in capital funding to go toward improving and upgrading facilities at Selkirk College.
• Selkirk College received $457,000 in one-time funding announced in April 2012 - http://bit.ly/HZ4EEn - to offer skilled trades-related training in the region.
• The college expects to create seats in a variety of fields over the coming year, including trades foundation programs.

Learn More:

Read more about the B.C. Skills and Training Plan:http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills-and-training-plan/

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.bc.ca