The Provincial Government has continued its dedication to trades training with an investment of $1.845 million in Selkirk College for a range of programming focused on building British Columbia’s future.
Shirley Bond—Minster of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training & Minister Responsible for Labour—announced earlier this week that the investment through the Industry Training Authority (ITA) will fund 458 seats through March 31, 2017.
Selkirk College students in trades programs like Welding at Nelson's Silver King Campus will benefit from the Provincial Government's recent funding announcement of $1.845 million through the Industry Training Authority (ITA). The funding is part of the ITA's annual allocation to B.C. post-secondary institutions.
“We are expecting almost one million job openings in B.C. by 2025,” says Minister Bond. “That’s why these crucial investments targeting high priority trades in our post-secondary institutions are essential. We need to ensure that we have the workforce necessary for our growing economy today and in the future.”
The funding is part of the ITA’s annual allocation to B.C. post-secondary institutions and training providers to run various training programs throughout the province. The focus on trades is in response to the objectives outlined in B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint and the McDonald Report.
A Key Part of British Columbia's Future
The provincial government invests more than $94 million annually in industry training through the ITA. The ITA leads and coordinates British Columbia’s skilled trades system by working with employers, employees, industry, labour, training providers and government to issue credentials, manage apprenticeships, set program standards and increase opportunities in the trades.
“There is growing interest in trade careers across the province and the investment announced today will ensure British Columbians have the opportunity to access training in high priority trades so they are equipped with the right skills to respond to the job opportunities to come,” says Gary Herman, CEO of the Industry Training Authority.
Selkirk College trades programs are located at Nelson's Silver King Campus and Tenth Street Campus.
Selkirk College offers trades training at both its Silver King Campus and Tenth Street Campus. The trade programs include: Welding, Metal Fabrication, Carpentry, Electrical, Fine Woodworking, Cooking, Plant Operator, Millwright/Machinist and Heavy Mechanical. With eight of every 10 trades related job openings requiring post-secondary education, Selkirk College provides the right start for individuals seeking exciting careers.
“Trades foundation programs are the cornerstone of Selkirk College’s yearly training plan,” says Kate Pelletier, Dean of Selkirk College’s School of Industry & Trades Training. “Along with our apprenticeship programs, they provide opportunities for individuals in our region to train in areas that will be in demand, provide them with a rewarding career and create a successful livelihood.
Find out more about the Industry Training Authority and B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint.