Media Contacts

Office of the Premier

Media Relations
Premier.media@gov.bc.ca

Seina Cho

Media Relations
Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
seina.cho@gov.bc.ca
250-889-9334

Backgrounders

What people are saying about the expansion of skilled-trades training in Okanagan

Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth –

“With $88 billion in proposed major projects throughout the province, there is growing demand for skilled workers across a wide range of industries. Creating more training seats through our Look West strategy helps people in B.C. gain the skills and experience they need to seize these opportunities, access good-paying jobs, support their families and build their futures in the communities they call home.”

Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby –

“As our communities continue to grow, so does the need for skilled workers to build homes, strengthen infrastructure, and support local businesses. By creating more opportunities for people to train close to home, we’re helping students gain the skills they need for rewarding careers while ensuring employers can find the talent they need right here in the Okanagan. The expansion of skilled-trades training seats at Okanagan College in Kelowna will help keep skilled workers in our communities, support our local economy, and build a stronger future for generations to come by education empowerment.”

Neil Fassina, president, Okanagan College –

“As the second-largest public trades training institution in the province, at Okanagan College we know that investments in trades programs are investments in people and the long-term strength of our economy. The students and apprentices who benefit from this funding will go on to build and maintain the infrastructure that British Columbians rely on every day, from housing, technology and transportation networks to the systems that support agriculture, growing communities and local businesses. We can see that demand firsthand through major construction projects underway across our region, including here at OC and at Kelowna International Airport, where skilled trades professionals are helping shape the future of the Okanagan.”

Emily Frick, apprentice student, automotive refinishing technician, Okanagan College –

“Growing up, I always knew that I wanted to work in a profession that allowed me to use my hands while being creative. Being able to work as an automotive refinishing technician is the perfect mix of creativity and technical skills. It’s a dream career that allows me to develop my skills and branch off into many categories within my career, all with endless possibilities and opportunities.”

Maggie Matear, chair, Skilled Trades Training Council –

“B.C.’s public post-secondary trades training institutions are proud to partner with government in strengthening the skilled-trades workforce through increased investment and training opportunities. These new seats at Okanagan College will support major provincial infrastructure projects and contribute towards the success of B.C.’s Look West Strategy.”

Shelley Gray, CEO, SkilledTradesBC –

“Investments like this will help more British Columbians get the training they need to complete their apprenticeships and build meaningful, rewarding careers in the skilled trades. By creating more seats and expanding accessibility, we’re helping more people prepare for in-demand careers and making sure B.C. has the skilled workforce needed to support growing industries and communities.”