Students at the College of New Caledonia (CNC) are developing the practical skills that employers in the North need in a new, modern heavy mechanical trades facility.

The new 2,352 square-metre (25,317 square-foot) facility provides a modern learning space for students to gain the skills that will prepare them for long-lasting, good-paying careers in industries such as forestry, mining and transportation. The previous leased facilities were outdated and at capacity.

The heavy mechanical trades facility can accommodate 251 full-time-equivalent spaces, and up to 48 new spaces, in the heavy-duty equipment technician and truck and transport mechanics program.

Heavy mechanical trades students inspect, service and repair heavy trucks, commercial trucks, buses, diesel engines, transport trailers, cranes, graders, drills, bulldozers and other heavy equipment.

Funding was provided through the Government of Canada's Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund. This fund enhanced and modernized buildings on post-secondary campuses across the country and improved the environmental sustainability of the facilities.

The total cost of the new facility was $18.5 million:

• $10.1 million from the Province of B.C.
• $6.9 million from the Government of Canada.
• $1.5 million from CNC.

Construction of the Heavy Mechanical Trades Facility started in early 2017 and generated approximately 50 direct and 40 indirect jobs.

Quotes:

Navdeep Bains, federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development –

“Our government’s investment in a new trades facility at the College of New Caledonia will help boost practical skills training for students in a sector that will continue to create jobs. We all benefit when students are given the tools they need to excel and contribute in tomorrow’s economy.”

Melanie Mark, B.C.’s Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training –

“Students will be positioned for success in the trades with the new Heavy Mechanical Trades Facility in Prince George. These students are building the best B.C. by diagnosing, maintaining, repairing and operating equipment and vehicles that keep our province growing and moving. Our government is working hard so students throughout B.C. can access the skills to thrive.”

Henry Reiser, president, College of New Caledonia –

“The college works with local and regional employers and industry to ensure that we’re equipping our students with the skills that are needed in the workplace. Providing responsive, relevant and quality training positions our students for success. The strength of CNC’s programming includes practical hands-on training. The new heavy mechanical trades facility will enable students to develop the skills that employers are looking for.”

Ryan Bachand, heavy mechanical trade student, College of New Caledonia –

“As a student, I appreciate the work that has been done to improve my learning and further education for those interested in the heavy duty mechanic trade. I am very happy and excited to continue my learning in this new building.”

Learn More:

Canada’s Innovation Agenda: www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/062.nsf/eng/home

Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund: www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/051.nsf/eng/home

A backgrounder follows.