Media Release: RBC empowers youth to explore trades training at VCC
VANCOUVER – Vancouver Community College (VCC) is pleased to announce that RBC Foundation has donated $50,000 to support VCC’s Transportation Trades Sampler program.
This unique introductory program, which has been supported by RBC Foundation for the past three years, is open to Metro Vancouver youth aged 14 to 18 who wish to gain hands-on experience in automotive collision repair, automotive refinishing, automotive service, and heavy mechanical trades.
The Transportation Trades Sampler program takes place at VCC’s Broadway campus, and thanks to perennial donations from RBC Foundation, is offered at no cost to students and covers food, transportation, and uniform and equipment needs.
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to demonstrate automotive maintenance, welding procedures, basic equipment operational procedures for heavy duty/commercial transport, and basic automotive repair refinishing practices. Participants of the Transportation Trades Sampler program also come away with a WHMIS (hazardous material handling) certificate, an IVES forklift operator certification, and 10 post-secondary credits.
We are thrilled to be a long-time partner and supporter of Vancouver Community College,” says Laurie Goodfellow, RBC Vice President, Commercial Market. “RBC is dedicated to helping young people access meaningful employment through practical work experience, skills development, networking and access to mental well-being supports and services. VCC’s Transportation Trades Sampler Program provides youth with an early opportunity to a wide range of trade experience, igniting their passion and expanding their opportunities. RBC is proud to support Vancouver Community College in this important program.”
Instructors in VCC’s Transportation Trades Sampler program also go beyond skills training, offering students key knowledge about building a career in trades, including entering and navigating post-secondary/apprenticeship systems and obtaining provincial trades certifications.
The recent British Columbia Labour Market Outlook report has projected that skilled trades will be one of the most in-demand industries in the next 10 years. More than 85,000 job openings are expected, many in automotive trades. VCC’s Transportation Trades Sampler program aligns with the province’s labour market projections by filling a critical need in education and training.
“We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with RBC and their generous donation to deliver this valuable program,” added Ajay Patel, VCC president and CEO. “Working in trades is incredibly rewarding with many career pathways. VCC's Transportation Trades Sampler Program trains youth in multiple skills, giving them an incredible advantage should they wish to pursue a career in this in-demand industry. By supporting the development of the next generation of skilled tradespeople in B.C., we are also meeting the needs of the province.”
This year’s Transportation Trades Sampler program is running Feb. 7 to April 15 for a total of 300 hours. Up to 16 youth will participate from multiple Metro Vancouver school districts (Vancouver, Coquitlam, Burnaby) as well as PLEA Community Services.
About RBC
Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 88,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com.
We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact.
About Vancouver Community College
VCC has been inspiring students to reach their career and educational goals for over 50 years, offering post-secondary training in more than 130 programs including bachelor's degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships. At campuses located in East Vancouver and Downtown, students receive hands-on instruction in culinary arts, business, design, health sciences, hospitality, transportation trades, music, and more.
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Media can contact:
Fareedah Rasoul Kim
Marketing and Communications Officer
Vancouver Community College
604.871.7538
frasoulkim@vcc.ca