The government of B.C. is investing more than $1.4 million in new skills training equipment at Vancouver Community 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 VCC - unless otherwise donated from industry partners - includes equipment such as a backhoe loader, a wheel alignment station, and a dozer.

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."

Mary McNeil, MLA for Vancouver-False Creek -

"Whether students are studying for a true vocation, or just looking to upgrade their skills, Vancouver Community College provides a comprehensive, well-rounded education. This investment will help renew equipment at the facility, ensuring VCC will continue to provide students with the best post-secondary experience possible."

Kathy Kinloch, president, Vancouver Community College -

"VCC has a proud history of excellence in trades training, and our graduates are job ready - that is the commitment we make to our industry partners. This funding will help us to ensure our students receive quality, relevant training on up-to-date equipment, so they are well prepared to succeed in today's job market."

Quick Facts:

Past capital investments at VCC include:

• $5.4 million to upgrade and renew buildings on the Downtown and Broadway campuses.

• $45.1 million towards Vancouver Community College's new Health Sciences Building.

• $1.4 million for culinary arts and automotive program equipment as part of an $8.75-million, one-time capital allocation for new trades training equipment.

Learn More:

Read more about the B.C. Skills and Training Plan:

http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills-and-training-plan/

Media Contact:

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