Selkirk College welcomed provincial leaders to its campuses in March for wide-ranging conversations about skilled trades, mass timber, rural innovation, collaborative health programming, and more. The visit underscored the province’s $241 million investment in skilled trades training, a commitment designed to reduce waitlists, boost per-seat funding, and expand certification opportunities across British Columbia.
Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, was joined by two local MLAs, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development Steve Morissette and Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities Brittny Anderson. Together, they toured facilities, met with students and employees, and connected with regional industry partners.
A roundtable discussion brought together representatives from BC Hydro, Mercer Celgar, the Castlegar Chamber of Commerce, Kalesnikoff, Drop Marine, G3, Teck, Porcupine Wood Products, and Spearhead. The conversation focused on the essential role skilled trades workers play in BC’s economy and the importance of aligning training with evolving industry needs.
“It was so valuable to have our provincial and regional partners come together to talk about how our college can serve learners, create opportunities, and keep the regional economy moving,” says Maggie Matear, president of Selkirk College and chair of the Skilled Trades Training Council. “We all want the same thing: hands-on training close to home that leads to steady, well-paying jobs and keeps our local industries strong.”
Learn more about industry and trades training at Selkirk College.
Photo caption (L-R): Instructor Dave Briggeman, Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, and Brittny Anderson, Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities