Media Release
VCC embraces equity, diversity, and inclusion through CADIA certification
VANCOUVER – In a first for a Canadian college, VCC is pleased to announce its new certification through the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion and Advancement (CADIA), a mission-driven organization that provides equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) tools to organizations in the automotive industry. The CADIA certification recognizes organizations who are or want to become EDI champions.
VCC’s EDI initiatives are closely tied to the success of the college. In 2020, the college unveiled its Strategic Innovation Plan which outlined how it will adapt to meet the evolving needs of students, industry, and the province.
Part of realizing the plan’s vision was the recognition that it could not be achieved without furthering equity, diversity, and inclusion. By embedding EDI throughout the plan, these values then inform the college’s day-to-day decisions, creating real change at a systemic level.
“When the opportunity to attain CADIA certification came up, we thought it was an excellent chance to showcase the Transportation Trades program commitment to EDI,” said Brett Griffiths, VCC Dean, School of Trades, Technology, and Design. “VCC has an incredibly diverse student population, and transportation trades is no exception. Attaining CADIA certification is symbolic of our school’s commitment to ensuring that VCC is a place for learners of all walks of life to receive the skills and training they need to succeed in their chosen profession.”
VCC’s CADIA certification also comes off the heels of the college’s recent announcement that it will soon be training automotive technician students on hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Acquiring an FCEV is part of the college’s objective to adapt to industry needs in the rapidly growing clean tech sector. Both the CADIA certification and FCEV acquisition demonstrate how VCC is carrying out the goals envisioned in its Strategic Innovation Plan.
“VCC strives to create a learning environment that is welcoming and inclusive for everyone,” added Ajay Patel, VCC’s President and CEO. “In addition, we know that skilled workers in automotive trades are in high demand, and it just makes sense from the college’s sustainability standpoint that barriers are removed so all students can receive the high-quality, hands-on education that they expect from VCC.”
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About CADIA
The Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion & Advancement (CADIA) is a mission-driven organization focused on diversity and inclusion in the automotive industry. Its mission is to double the number of diverse leaders in the automotive industry by 2030. CADIA is championing diverse talent, driving systemic change, and supporting leadership commitment in the automotive industry.
About VCC
Vancouver Community College (VCC) has been inspiring students to reach their career and educational goals for over 55 years, offering post-secondary training in over 140 programs including bachelor's degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships. With two campuses located Downtown and in East Vancouver, students receive hands-on instruction in culinary arts, business, design, health sciences, hospitality management, transportation trades, music, and more. Learn more at vcc.ca.
Media contact:
Jen Hill
Manager, Communications
T: 604.828.0974
E: jehill@vcc.ca