Summary

• Funding has been approved to renovate civil and mechanical engineering technology spaces at Camosun College’s Interurban campus
• Project will create local jobs and modernize learning spaces for high-demand post-secondary programs
• Construction is planned to begin in fall 2026, with completion targeted for spring 2029

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Updates to engineering technology training spaces at Camosun College will create a modern learning space for students in the high-demand fields of civil and mechanical engineering.

Renovations will replace aging infrastructure, such as labs and classrooms, and ensure students train on tools and technology that reflect current industry standards. This supports the Province’s Look West strategy by helping people gain the skills they need to support B.C.’s growing economy.

“Investments like this one at Camosun College strengthen the foundations of our communities modernizing the spaces where students learn and grow to prepare them for good jobs in high-demand fields,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “These renovations will ensure students have the modern tools and training they need to pursue careers in engineering and technology, helping them build stronger futures.”

Upgrading learning spaces

The Province, through the Ministry of Infrastructure, is investing $32 million to upgrade two buildings at the Interurban campus through a two-phase project:

• Phase 1- Jack White Building
  Construction is expected to begin in fall 2026 and be complete by early 2028
• Phase 2 - Technologies Building
  Construction is expected to begin in early 2028 and be completed by spring 2029

These renovations will modernize labs, replace outdated infrastructure and extend the life of the buildings. Students will be able to gain hands‑on experience with technology used in today’s workplaces.

Supporting students and local jobs

The project will help students build skills for high‑demand careers, preparing a workforce ready to meet the needs of a changing economy. Modernized learning spaces will support the creation of local jobs during construction and ensure students can access high‑quality education close to home.

“By upgrading learning spaces at Camosun, civil and mechanical engineering students will have access to the hands-on training they need for the in-demand careers that will shape B.C.’s future,” said Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “This investment aligns with our Look West strategy to build the skilled workforce B.C. needs to deliver major projects and keep B.C. growing as the economic engine of Canada.”

Investing in B.C. post-secondary education infrastructure

Since 2017, the Province has committed more than $4 billion to post-secondary education infrastructure, including:

• $2 billion for student housing, creating nearly 7,300 new student beds in B.C., with more underway
• more than $2 billion for campus infrastructure, including new campuses and specialty buildings

As part of the Province’s Look West strategy, building a skilled workforce is essential to growing the economy and delivering the major projects that will drive strong, sustainable growth and positioning B.C. as Canada’s economic engine.

Improving post‑secondary buildings and facilities ensures students have the tools they need for in‑demand careers and supports long‑term economic growth.

Quotes:

Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South –

“Investing in modern training spaces at Camosun College ensures students gain hands-on experience with the tools and technologies used in today’s engineering workplaces. These upgrades will help build a skilled workforce ready to support British Columbia’s growing economy.”  

Richard Stride, provost and vice-president academic, Camosun College –

“Students learn best when they can apply their knowledge in real-world environments. These upgrades to the Jack White Building and the Technologies Building on the Interurban campus will create modern, flexible spaces where students can design, build, test and collaborate. This investment from the provincial government is critical as it ensures engineering and technology programs continue to prepare graduates with the practical skills and experience that industry and communities throughout B.C. need.”

Makayla Silvey, mechanical engineering technology student, Camosun College –

“Having access to modern labs and learning spaces makes a real difference for students. When the equipment and environments reflect what we’ll see in the workplace, it helps us build confidence and develop the hands-on skills employers are looking for. Investments like this help students feel supported and ready for the next step in their careers.”