As speculation grew last week about an early federal election call, government departments were busy rolling out funding promises galore.
From Western Economic Diversification Canada and local MP Garry Breitkreuz came good news for the Parkland College Trades and Technology Centre in the form of $250,000 for equipment.
The new equipment allows the college to offer apprenticeship programs such as the Agricultural Machinery Technician Certificate, Heavy Equipment Truck and Transport Technician Certificate, and Enhanced Welding Certificate programs.
Parkland president Dwayne Reeve welcomed the announcement.
“This support is vital to the Trades and Technology Centre, which will benefit students in the Parkland region for years to come,” he said. “Our graduates will be the skilled employees businesses and industries in our province need for prosperity and growth.”
Parkland communications officer Brendan Wagner said the funding comes up short of what the school needs.
“We’re going to need about $700,000 for all the equipment, but it will help,” he said.
The equipment has already been purchased, he added, noting the source for the remaining $400,000 is yet to be identified.
The new centre, scheduled to start classes in September will provide training spots in the Multi-Mechanical Trades Certificate apprenticeship program, which includes Heavy Equipment Mechanic and Automotive Technician, as well as Introduction to Metal Work and Metal Fabrication programs.
The College will also be able to offer skills upgrading to employed trades people in these areas because of the new equipment and shop space.
These programs have been identified by Saskatchewan’s potash industry as an area of its highest needs for skilled labour.
“The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring Canadians have the necessary skills and training they need to fill available jobs in our economy,” Breitkreuz said. “This investment will allow students to train closer to home and provide them with the skills they need to succeed, while also helping to develop the talent required for the growth of our economy.”
