Funding announcements launch Apprenticeship Recognition Week at VCC

 

On Tuesday, Nov. 1, Vancouver Community College (VCC) welcomed Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism, Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour to the automotive collision & refinishing shop on the Broadway campus for some special funding announcements as part of Apprenticeship Recognition Week (Oct. 31 – Nov. 6, 2016). 

Minister Bond’s first announcement highlighted a $15 million investment for equipment in youth trades programs, such as Accelerated Credit Enrolment in Industry Training (ACE IT), which allows students to start their trades training while still in secondary school, thus allowing them a faster route into apprenticeships and the workforce.

A grant of $16,400 was then announced for an innovation pilot at VCC, in which the traditional two-week technical training for level 1 auto glass technicians will be redesigned to include online self-directed studies, thus reducing apprentices’ time away from work to two days.

The presentation concluded with statements by Gary Herman, CEO of BC’s Industry Training Authority and Dr. Peter Nunoda, president and CEO of VCC.

“By recognizing tradespeople, we honour the dedication these students have to their craft and the commitment to their industry,” said Dr. Nunoda. “Red Seal certification is the sign of true excellence, and funding like this is a great support.”

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News releases:

B.C. government invests $15 million for trades equipment in schools

Innovation pilot enhances apprenticeship experience at Vancouver Community College

 

Learn more:

VCC Transportation Trades           

VSB Accelerated Credit Enrolment in Industry Training (ACE IT) programs