Newsroom - Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology

B.C. investing in graduate students

2013-04-15T15:45:00Z

VICTORIA - The B.C. government is providing $900,000 for graduate student scholarships at the province's four research-intensive universities.

"These scholarships will support some of our best and brightest as they advance their graduate studies and apply their knowledge and skills to the benefit of their chosen research areas, our post-secondary education sector, and all British Columbians," said Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology.

The University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Victoria and the University of Northern British Columbia will each receive a share of the $900,000.

The scholarships will provide awards of $15,000 each to B.C. graduate students selected by the universities to support research aligned with priority sectors in the province such as forestry, agrifoods, mining, technology and health human resources.

Learn More:

Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology: http://www.gov.bc.ca/aeit/

Simon Fraser University: http://www.sfu.ca/

University of British Columbia: http://www.ubc.ca/

University of Northern British Columbia: http://www.unbc.ca/

University of Victoria: http://www.uvic.ca/

Media Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.bc.ca

New community care licensing officer program at JIBC

2013-04-15T15:30:00Z

NEW WESTMINSTER - The Justice Institute of British Columbia will develop and deliver a new training program for community care licensing officers to support and improve monitoring of private and public community care facilities throughout British Columbia.

The Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology is providing $198,915 to JIBC to support the development of an online community care licensing officer program. The ministry will also provide JIBC with $194,400 annually to offer 27 student spaces in the new program.

Community care licensing officers are responsible for inspecting and monitoring private and public facilities for child care, youth residential care, residential group care and long-term care in B.C. They also conduct investigations, provide education and support to licensees, and take action to bring facilities into compliance with the acts and regulations that govern them.

This new program is in direct response to a specific recommendation made by B.C.'s ombudsperson in the report, The Best of Care: Getting it Right for Seniors in British Columbia (part2).

The curriculum will be online and will be an open education resource.

Quotes:

Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology Ralph Sultan -

"We are announcing concrete actions to improve the lives of seniors and their caregivers. It also supports our seniors' action plan and is an investment into a priority health-education program that will benefit British Columbians now and in the future.

Justice Institute of British Columbia president Michel Tarko -

"JIBC is pleased to be given the opportunity to leverage our organizational expertise to ensure that community care licensing officers have the education and training needed to effectively maintain the safety of those served by public and private care facilities across the province."

Learn More:

Improving care for BC Seniors: An action Plan: http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/library/publications/year/2012/seniors-action-plan.pdf

The best care: getting it right for seniors in BC:http://www.ombudsman.bc.ca/seniors/seniors-care-investigation/seniors-report-part-two

JIBC: http://www.jibc.ca/

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Post-secondary institutions capital investment

2013-04-12T15:00:00Z

VICTORIA - Government is providing more than $46 million in routine capital funding this fiscal year for public universities, colleges and institutions through Budget 2013.

All 25 institutions will receive funds to help pay for maintaining and upgrading campus facilities, from ensuring infrastructure and operational systems are performing at optimal levels to replacing boilers and elevators. As part of the routine capital allocation funding, some institutions will receive funds for facilities renovations, which include upgrades to roofing, HVAC or waterlines.

The routine capital allocation fund helps institutions improve safety and increase operating and environmental efficiencies on campuses. Through Budget 2013, government intends to provide more than $460 million over three years in capital spending at B.C.'s post-secondary campuses.

Quote:

Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology Ralph Sultan -

"Through continued investment in post-secondary education we can provide British Columbians with the tools they need to be successful in the modern economy. This funding ensures our facilities give students the best possible learning experience."

Learn More:

For a backgrounder on the Routine Capital Allocation Fund 2013-14, visit: http://bit.ly/17rCMXb

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Investing in Aboriginal students education success

2013-04-09T15:30:00Z

VICTORIA - Government has invested $350,000 in one-time funding for new and ongoing programs and research to help Aboriginal learners get the most from their education so they have an even better chance of finding success in life.

The funding will support a variety of activities, including peer mentoring programs, community and research internships, and a teacher certification program to increase the number of First Nations language teachers in B.C. As well, it will enable delivery of focused programs to encourage Aboriginal students to be more motivated to learn math and science, and ultimately help them be successful in post-secondary education and in the labour market.

Three organizations received funding:

University of Victoria: $100,000 for LE,NONET, to continue programming and gather data used to support Aboriginal students’ success in their post-secondary studies through to graduation.

First Nations Education Steering Committee: $150,000 for First Nations language teacher training programs in Aboriginal communities.

Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences: $100,000 to deliver high-quality education in mathematics, and provide programs to increase the success of Aboriginal learners in math and science throughout B.C.

These investments support goals identified in the Aboriginal Post-Secondary Education and Training Policy Framework and Action Plan http://bit.ly/10Iboip to enhance participation by Aboriginal peoples in the social, cultural and economic life of their communities, the province and global society. It was developed to help Aboriginal learners succeed in an integrated, relevant, and effective post-secondary education system.

Quotes:
Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation -
“This funding will help post-secondary programs and research to continue to build a solid foundation for Aboriginal people to enjoy success in their chosen careers and secure good jobs so they can take care of their families and support their communities.”

Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology -
“Ensuring Aboriginal learners can access an integrated, relevant and effective post-secondary system is crucial to their future. By funding activities such as the mentoring program through LE,NONET at UVic, or First Nations language teacher training in Aboriginal communities, and specialized math and science programs for school children, we are supporting Aboriginal students to be successful in their post-secondary studies and in life.”

David Turpin, president, University of Victoria -
“We are grateful for the government’s continued funding for UVic’s LE,NONET program. It helps to further support Aboriginal students working with their peers, their communities and the university. As UVic continues to build on the success of LE,NONET, we expect to see more Aboriginal students complete their degrees. The program’s research provides valuable information about the most effective ways to support Aboriginal students as they continue their education and graduate.”

Tyrone McNeil, president of the First Nations Education Steering Committee -
“Revitalization of First Nations language is a priority for our communities and we greatly appreciate this funding provided to support First Nations language teacher education programs.”

Alejandro Adem, director, Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences -
"Support from the B.C. government will allow PIMS to enhance the mathematical opportunities for Aboriginal teachers and learners throughout British Columbia by offering summer math camps, teacher training workshops and peer mentorships. Mathematical skills are a basic component in technical careers and these programs seek to provide critical support to enable Aboriginal students to successfully pursue them."

Media contact:

Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.bc.ca

Moving to the next chapter on free online textbooks

2013-04-08T18:00:00Z

VICTORIA - Textbooks for some of the most popular first- and second-year post-secondary subject areas in British Columbia are expected online by September, reducing costs significantly for students.

In October 2012, the B.C. government announced the move to become the first province in Canada to offer students free, online, open textbooks for the 40 most popular subject areas. Those 40 subjects have now been identified and the project will move to a phased implementation that will result in 10 to 20 of the open textbooks available online by this fall.

An open textbook is typically published under an open licence and can be read online or downloaded at no cost, or printed at a fraction of traditional textbook costs.

Once available, these open textbooks will be another option for faculty and instructors who will still have the ability to determine the educational resources, including textbooks, they wish to use for their courses. Furthermore, because open textbooks are digital and open, they can be modified and adapted by instructors to fit their unique instructional needs.

Open textbooks will be created through an open Call for Proposals process, and will be reviewed by B.C. advanced education faculty for quality and relevancy.

The open textbooks project is being co-ordinated on government's behalf by BCcampus, a publicly funded organization that aims to make higher education available to everyone through the smart use of collaborative information technology service.

British Columbia is working together with other jurisdictions to share expertise and maximize the opportunities and benefits that flow from open textbooks. This week B.C. is hosting an open textbook summit that is bringing together higher education representatives from Alberta, California and Washington, as well as other agencies and organizations involved in open textbooks from across the United States and from as far away as South Africa.

Quotes:

Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology -

"Having spent years in the post-secondary sector as a student and on faculty I know that making textbooks available online for no cost will really help students and their families, freeing up money for rent, food and other expenses and giving students greater flexibility in their education choices."

"Our development of open textbooks makes post-secondary education more accessible, and supports our Families First Agenda for British Columbia, which helps make life more affordable, support vulnerable families and keep communities safe."

Dianne Crisp, professor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University -

"Open textbooks not only provide exceptional benefit for students and their costs, they allow a level of flexibility in content that faculty can leverage to update material, include new resources, and respond to the digital age in ways never before possible."

Adrienne Watt, instructor at Douglas College and Northwest Community College -

"It is my expectation that through this project we will be able to promote information sharing and collaborating with faculty members all over the country. Moreover, we will have the opportunity to create really robust text books that will fit classroom needs and provide quality textbooks for our students."

Quick Facts:

When fully implemented, up to 200,000 students each year could benefit from B.C.'s open textbook project.

It is estimated students spend more than $100, and in some cases, more than $200 per textbook. Open textbooks, or just the portion a student needs, by contrast can be printed directly by students for the cost of printing and binding at much lower prices, typically around $30 each. Alternatively, students can keep their open textbooks as e-versions and pay nothing.

Faculty can readily customize open textbooks to better meet their local teaching and learning needs.

Learn More:

The B.C. Open Textbook Project: http://open.bccampus.ca/

BCcampus: http://www.bccampus.ca/

Families First Agenda for British Columbia: http://www.familiesfirstbc.ca/

A backgrounder follows.

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 956-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.bc.ca

BACKGROUNDER

Implementation plan for B.C's open textbooks project

BCcampus, working with the Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology has identified the 40 most highly enrolled first- and second-year subject areas in the provincial post-secondary system.

The list contains 26 first-year subjects and 14 second-year subjects in 27 different disciplines across the arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, formal sciences and applied sciences. Some or all of these courses are delivered by almost all of B.C.'s public post-secondary institutions.

The open textbooks will be rolled out in three phases. In the first phase, existing open textbooks that link to the 40 high-enrolment courses will be reviewed for use in British Columbia. A Call for Proposals for reviews will be issued in April 2013. It is anticipated that 10 to 20 existing open textbooks will be adopted and available online for B.C. students and faculty by September 2013.

In the second phase, existing open textbooks will be adapted and remixed for use in British Columbia. And in the third phase, new open textbooks will be created as required for courses that cannot be served by existing or adapted open textbooks.

In order of course registrations per year, starting with the highest, the 40 courses are:

English - 1st year

Math and Stats - 1st year

Psychology - 1st year

Economics (macro and micro) - 1st year

Biology- 1st year

Math and Stats - 2nd year

Accounting - 1st year

Chemistry - 1st year

Physics and Astronomy - 1st year

Sociology - 1st year

Philosophy - 1st year

Computer Science - 1st year

Chemistry - 2nd year

Business, Business Administration and Management - 1st year

Psychology - 2nd year

Criminology - 1st year

Accounting - 2nd year

Economics (macro and micro) - 2nd year

Marketing - 1st year

Biology - 2nd year

Commerce - 2nd year

Anthropology - 1st year

Business Information Systems/Business Computer Systems/Business Information Technology - 1st year

Visual Arts, Media and Design - 1st year

Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science - 1st year

Kinetics/Kinesiology- 1st year

Communications - 1st year

English - 2nd year

Geography - 1st year

Human Resources and Organizational Behaviour - 2nd year

Applied Science - 1st year

French - 1st year

History - 1st year

Political Science - 1st year

Visual Arts, Media and Design - 2nd year

Communications - 2nd year

Sociology - 2nd year

Applied Science - 2nd year

Political Science - 2nd year

Human Resources and Organizational Behaviour - 1st year

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 956-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.bc.ca

New equipment for skills training at College of New Caledonia

2013-04-05T21:15:00Z

PRINCE GEORGE - Students at College of New Caledonia training to work as electricians, heavy- duty commercial transport mechanics, millwrights and in other skilled jobs are learning on the very latest equipment, thanks to an investment of more than $1.1 million by the B.C. government.

The funding is part of a $17-million provincewide Skills and Training Plan investment to support public post-secondary institutions to upgrade equipment and put the latest tools in the hands of students.

Equipment purchased new or replaced and now on-site at College of New Caledonia includes eight electrical test benches, a transport tractor with ABS for the heavy-duty/commercial transport program, a scaffolding system for carpentry, a hoist for the automotive shop, and milling machines and an overhead bridge crane for the millwright program.

Equipment purchases and replacements at each institution are based upon a review and analysis of existing inventory, current and future program and industry requirements, and current government priorities to provide skills training that is aligned to the needs of the economy in each region.

Institutions will also pursue partnerships with local industries and other stakeholders to purchase or donate equipment, ensuring students continue to train on the latest equipment being used in the workplace.

Quotes:

Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology -

"This funding, coupled with contributions from private industry partners will help the College of New Caledonia invest in job-oriented equipment such as a scaffolding system for carpentry and a hoist for the automotive shop. This is in tune with our government's commitment to increase the opportunities for skills training, and the number of skilled workers."

Pat Bell, MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie -

"This is an investment in students - in the future welders, millwrights, heavy-duty mechanics, electricians and carpenters who will fill the skilled jobs that will drive industry, our economy and our communities around the North and throughout British Columbia."

Shirley Bond, MLA for Prince George-Valemount -

"Our investment in skills training equipment at College of New Caledonia is the result of on-going conversations with students, employers, northern communities and the college, and is in line with what we heard from the citizens of British Columbia throughout the Skills for BC engagement."

"We continue to work with stakeholders in industry and across our post-secondary sector to ensure students are getting the training they need closer to home and to help them be first in line for the jobs opening up in the North and around the province."

John Bowman, president, College of New Caledonia -

"The funding has already benefitted students in our electrical program, which was able to purchase a piece of equipment that had previously been on loan to the program. Hands-on training is key to our trades programs and this funding will help put the latest equipment in our students' hands."

Quick Facts:

Past capital investments at CNC include:

$10 million to construct a new trades training building and renovate space in the John A. Brink Centre at the Prince George campus.

$5 million to build the trades' phase two of the Quesnel campus.

$1.4 million to convert the existing gym to classroom space at the Burns Lake campus.

$627,000 for the creation of Aboriginal gathering places at the Prince George and Fort St. James campuses.

Learn More:

BC Jobs Plan and Skills and Training Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills-and-training-plan/

The Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology: http://www.gov.bc.ca/aved/index.html

College of New Caledonia: http://www.cnc.bc.ca/

Media Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

$7 million for targeted regional skills training

2013-04-04T19:46:00Z

VICTORIA - Premier Christy Clark today announced that students throughout B.C. will have increased access to regional training opportunities as a result of $7 million in one-time funding to 19 post-secondary institutions.

"Our skills and training plan is about training British Columbians for jobs that exist and this investment will help ensure training opportunities match industry," said Premier Clark. "This funding will help our regions grow and ensures that students and current and future employers have the opportunities they need to fill the jobs that are available today."

The regionally targeted skills training funding, which comes through the Canada - British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, will allow the individual institutions to target specific short-term training that is needed to meet the labour market needs of industry in their region. Possible examples of training could include introduction to trades, forestry boot camp, mining fundamentals and automotive technician foundation training. Institutions will determine specific seat and program allocations over the coming months.

As part of the overall funding, $1 million is being provided to support short-term training that aligns with the outcomes from the Regional Workforce Tables. Additionally, $900,000 is being allocated to support short-term training related to the activities of B.C.'s Centres of Training Excellence.

"A key part of planning for future labour market needs is to make the right connections between government, industry and institutions so they can work together to identify and deliver training that matches labour market needs," said Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology. "This funding will help provide targeted training and give students access to specialist expertise that will provide them with strong, marketable skills that are in demand in their part of the province."

The establishment of Regional Workforce Tables is a key commitment under the BC Jobs Plan and has successfully brought together regional knowledge and expertise to determine how to effectively align regional training to meet local employment opportunities and ensure British Columbians have access to training and job opportunities in their home communities.

There are currently two B.C. Centres of Training Excellence that were set up under the BC Skills and Training plan. These involve multiple partners and focus on mining and oil and gas. The centres aim to provide a central point of contact within the post-secondary system to draw on expertise across the system to support training in the resource sectors.

"This funding will help ensure that regions throughout the province have skilled workers, both today and in the future," said Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour. "The Regional Skills Training Plans developed by the Regional Workforce Tables will help align existing training programs to local jobs in the regions and help people take advantage of the significant economic development opportunities that exist in B.C."

The B.C. government has been engaging with the public in a skills and training discussion. One of the key themes that emerged is the need to find labour market solutions through regional co-ordination between institutions and industry, and the need to increase awareness about jobs in trades and their benefits.

Under the BC Jobs Plan and BC Skills and Training Plan, government is actively working to ensure that British Columbians have the skills they need to be first in line for jobs in the province through an investment of $75 million for new capital and equipment to complement $500 million in annual investments in employment and skills training programs.

Quick Facts:

The first Regional Workforce Table open forum took place in Terrace in January 2012. Subsequent forums were held in Dawson Creek and Cranbrook.

The Northeast and Northwest Regional Workforce Tables completed their Regional Skills Training Plans in January 2013 and identified actions to help ensure northern B.C. communities have skilled workers to fill current and future jobs in their communities. Subsequently, a third Regional Workforce Table has been established in the Kootenay region.

B.C. has two Centres of Training Excellence: one in mining and another in oil and gas.

Learn More:

For more information on BC Jobs Plan and Skills Training Plan:http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills-and-training-plan/

Regional Workforce Tables: http://www.jtst.gov.bc.ca/regionalworkforcetables/

Northwest Regional Skills Training Plan: http://www.nwcc.bc.ca/About/pdfs/NW%20Regional%20Skills%20Training%20Plan%202013-2018_2.pdf

Northeast Regional Skills Training Plan: http://www.nlc.bc.ca/Portals/0/documents/News/NE_RWT_Skills%20Training_Plan.pdf

Media Contacts:

Ben Chin
Office of the Premier
250 588-3113

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Premier confirms investment in Northwest skills training

2013-04-04T19:45:00Z

TERRACE - Premier Christy Clark has announced a $465,000 investment for training opportunities in Northwest B.C. through Northwest Community College.

"The most positive thing we can do to ensure continued prosperity in the Northwest is to make sure our training opportunities match industry needs," Premier Clark said. "I'm delighted that this investment in regionally targeted skills training will help strengthen those linkages and give students and current and future employers the opportunities they need to fill the jobs that are available today and help generate the jobs that will make this region flourish and grow for years to come."

The funding, which comes through the Canada - British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, is part of a provincewide $7-million, one-time funding investment that will allow the individual institutions to target specific short-term training that is needed to meet the labour market needs of the Northwest.

"A key part of planning for future labour market needs is to make the right connections between government, industry and institutions so they can work together to identify and deliver training that matches labour market needs," said Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology. "This funding will help provide targeted training and give students in the Northwest access to specialist expertise that will provide them with strong, marketable skills that are in demand in their own part of the province."

"We thank the government for investing in our students and our communities," said Dr. Denise Henning, president and CEO of Northwest Community College. "These dollars help Northwest Community College ensure northerners are stepping into economies in this region with skills that are relevant and responsive to industry needs."

This investment will also support short-term training that aligns with the outcomes from the Northwest Regional Workforce Table and the short-term training related to the activities of B.C.'s Centres of Training Excellence.

The establishment of a Northwest Regional Workforce Tables is a key commitment for the region under the BC Jobs Plan. It has successfully brought together regional knowledge and expertise to determine how to effectively align regional training to meet local employment opportunities and ensure residents in the Northwest have access to training and job opportunities in their home communities.

There are currently two B.C. Centres of Training Excellence that were set up under the BC Skills and Training plan. These involve multiple partners and focus on mining and oil and gas. Northwest Community College is the lead partner in the Mining Centre of Training Excellence and aims to provide a central point of contact within the post-secondary system to draw on expertise across the system to support training in the resource sectors.

Under the BC Jobs Plan and BC Skills and Training Plan, government is actively working ensure that British Columbians have the skills they need to be first in line for jobs in the province through an investment of $75 million for new capital and equipment to complement $500 million in annual investments in employment and skills training programs.

Learn More:

For more information on BC Jobs Plan and Skills Training Plan:http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills-and-training-plan/

Regional Workforce Tables: http://www.jtst.gov.bc.ca/regionalworkforcetables/

Northwest Regional Skills Training Plan: http://www.nwcc.bc.ca/About/pdfs/NW%20Regional%20Skills%20Training%20Plan%202013-2018_2.pdf

Media Contacts:

Ben Chin
Office of the Premier
250 588-3113

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Ambassadors will turn youth onto trades

2013-04-03T20:30:00Z

VICTORIA - The B.C. government is helping support a new youth ambassador program to promote trades and technology careers to young people in K to 12.

Through a one-time $300,000 grant Trades Training B.C. (TTBC) will design and implement the program that will provide in-school presentations throughout the province. Ambassadors will bring knowledge and understanding of training in their chosen field as they share their passion and pride in their career to encourage other youth to explore available trades and technical opportunities.

The idea for youth ambassadors is a direct result of the engagement government held with British Columbians last fall, supporting the provincial Skills and Training Plan.

The youth ambassador program is in addition to a $1.2-million provincial effort launched last fall, aimed at getting more young people interested in the trades and ensuring today's students will have the skills they need to fill the jobs of tomorrow.

Trades Training B.C., a group of 14 public post-secondary institutions, promotes trades training in B.C., including the Discover Trades program, which provides easy access to information to secondary students about the many opportunities available for trades training around the province.

The Discover Trades BC website - www.discovertradesbc.ca - includes workbooks and resources for primary, middle and secondary teachers to use in getting more students excited about trades work. It also boasts extensive resources and information for parents and students, including testimonials from students who have already chosen to pursue training in the trades, links to skills assessment tools, career profiles, and secondary and post-secondary trades training programs.

In addition to a youth ambassador program and the Discover Trades website, the Discover Trades and Technologies First Hand program through Skills Canada BC also provides opportunities for students to explore trades and technology careers.

The program offers students between the ages of 11 and 18 an opportunity to try a variety of interactive, challenging and fun activities in a safe and engaging environment at any one of the 13 Skills Canada BC regional competitions, and the provincial competition on April 17 at the Tradex Trade & Exhibition Centre in Abbotsford. Professional industry representatives and educators will be on-hand to guide spectators through a variety of activities while answering questions and sharing their experiences about skilled trade and technology careers.

Quotes:

Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology Ralph Sultan -

"The youth ambassador program is a great opportunity for more students in the K-to-12 system to be thinking about - and get a taste for - careers in the trades."

Minister of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training Pat Bell -

"Government is committed to ensuring that British Columbia has a skilled workforce that is ready for the many opportunities coming our way here in B.C. That's why ensuring youth have access to information on trades that will be in demand and how to get the necessary skills training is critical to meeting that need."

Minister of Education Don McRae -

"Getting kids excited about the trades and technology careers will ensure more of our young people are able to take advantage of the growing demand for skilled workers throughout B.C. We want our young people to be first in line for well-paying jobs in the trades and technology sectors and programs like this help to show kids the many career options that are available."

Trades Training BC's Jim Reed -

"We look forward to working with Skills BC, industry, the K-12 system and government in introducing a new program that promotes the great opportunity a career in trades offers our youth. The availability of a skilled workforce is critical to our Province's economic future and a program such as this will help to recruit young people to trades programs at any one of our 14 public institutions."

Learn More:

BC Skills and Training Plan: www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills/bc-skills-and-training-plan

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca

Trades Training B.C.: http://www.tradestrainingbc.ca/

Discover Trades: http://www.discovertradesbc.ca

Skills Canada BC: http://www.skillscanada.bc.ca

Industry Training Authority: http://www.itabc.ca/youth-trades/overview

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Cowichan Tribes helping learners prepare for the future

2013-03-27T22:15:00Z

NORTH COWICHAN - Aboriginal learners in the Cowichan Valley will have more opportunities to get certification for in-demand job skills with new community-based education and training agreements between Vancouver Island University and Cowichan Tribes.

The Aboriginal Community-Based Delivery Partnerships Program (ACBDPP) agreements will provide training for 49 learners in three diverse areas: welder "C" certification training - to be delivered by Pacific Energy in Duncan within the Cowichan Tribes community; applied business technology certification - an 11-month program for Cowichan Tribes participants; and health-care assistant certification with an Aboriginal focus - includes eight months of comprehensive training and classroom time.

Under the BC Jobs Plan, government is committed to providing funding for community-based delivery of programs that meet Aboriginal learners' needs. ACBDPP partners deliver job-related education and training in essential skills, and certification in a variety of areas, along with mentoring, coaching and support, through partnerships between post-secondary institutions and Aboriginal-controlled organizations around B.C.

Funding for the community-based delivery partnerships was first announced in June 2012, as part of the Aboriginal Post-Secondary Education and Training Framework and Action Plan. The funding is being provided by the governments of B.C. and Canada through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement, and through Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada's Active Measures Program.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation -

"We are focusing on creating an integrated system - one where Aboriginal institutes, post-secondary institutions, and the business community work together. Community-based delivery of training and education helps to support the BC Jobs Plan and enable Aboriginal British Columbians to gain the knowledge and skills they need to take care of their families, build their communities and be successful in their work and personal lives."

Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour -

"Government is committed to ensuring that British Columbians are first in line for jobs here in B.C. and that they have the skills they need to be successful in their chosen fields. Skills training partnerships like this one in the Cowichan Valley make a difference in people's lives by giving them valuable skills they can use to take full advantage of the many opportunities in their communities."

Dr. Ralph Nilson, president and vice-chancellor, Vancouver Island University -

"We are proud to be working in partnership with the government of B.C. and Cowichan Tribes to deliver high-quality education and training to Aboriginal learners in areas where a strong demand exists. With the largest Aboriginal student population in the province, VIU is committed to working together with First Nation communities to provide both access and academic excellence for the next generation of leaders and workers."

Harvey Alphonse, chief, Cowichan Tribes -

"Cowichan Tribes is pleased to be working with Vancouver Island University to provide focused training for Aboriginal learners. Participants will benefit directly by getting the skills they need to land good jobs that will create economic health for their families and the community."

Quick Facts:

The Aboriginal Community-Based Delivery Partnerships Program is accessible by Aboriginal learners who are 18 years or older and living in B.C.

Nearly 25,000 students a year who enrol in public post-secondary education identify themselves as Aboriginal.

In 2010, over 2,700 credentials were awarded to Aboriginal students - a 17 per cent increase over 2007.

Under the Labour Market Agreement (LMA), the Government of Canada is providing the B.C. government approximately $66 million annually until 2013-14 to fund employment and skills training programs and services for employed people who are low-skilled and for unemployed individuals who are not eligible for Employment Insurance.

As a direct result of federal LMA funding, thousands of British Columbians are receiving training that will advance their careers, assist in securing new employment and ultimately improve the social and economic outcomes of individuals in B.C. and Canada.

Learn More:

Aboriginal Training for Employment Program and Aboriginal Community-Based Delivery Partnerships Program: www.aved.gov.bc.ca/aboriginal/programs.htm

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan: www.bcjobsplan.ca

BC Skills and Training Plan: www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills/

During the month of November 2012, the B.C. government asked for ideas from citizens on the topic of building a skilled workforce. See what government is doing to put ideas into action: www.bcjobsplan.ca/ideas-to-actions/

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Programs focus on Aboriginal learners' success

2013-03-27T22:15:00Z

NORTH COWICHAN - Almost $11 million in investments is supporting two programs for Aboriginal learners in British Columbia, giving them more opportunities to gain credentials and develop important work skills as they prepare to enter B.C.'s labour market.

The Aboriginal Community-based Delivery Partnerships Program (ACBDPP) was first announced in June 2012 as part of the Aboriginal Post-secondary Education and Training Framework and Action Plan. ACBDPP is a two-year program that encourages education partnerships between public post-secondary institutions and Aboriginal institutes and communities.

Funding includes $7 million in provincial and Canada - British Columbia Labour Market Agreement funding, along with $2 million through Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada's Active Measures Program. Thirty-one partnerships deliver programs for Aboriginal learners throughout B.C. in a diverse range of specializations, from skills training for employment in the oil and natural gas sectors to training that leads to certification as a teacher of indigenous languages.

An additional $1.9 million for B.C.'s Aboriginal Training for Employment Program (ATEP) will provide funding for 14 programs with Aboriginal-controlled organizations and service providers to deliver job-related training in essential skills and introductory trades training along with mentoring, coaching and support for students.

Since it was introduced in 2010, investment in ATEP has exceeded $8.6 million through the Canada - British Columbia Labour Market Agreement. By December 2012, nearly 900 Aboriginal people had completed ATEP programs offered by Aboriginal organizations throughout B.C.

Under the BC Jobs Plan, government is committed to providing funding for community-based delivery of programs that meet Aboriginal learners' needs.

Quotes:

Bernard Valcourt, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada -

"The Government of Canada is pleased to support community based training opportunities for Aboriginal individuals through the Aboriginal Community-Based Delivery Partnership Program. This investment with our provincial partners is a practical measure to help First Nations youth reach their potential and participate more fully in Canada's economy."

Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology -

"By improving access to education, skills and trades training for Aboriginal students through programs like ATEP and the Aboriginal Community-based Delivery Partnerships Program, we can help Aboriginal communities to take advantage of economic opportunities, and support B.C.'s labour market."

Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation -

"The skills that learners acquire in both programs will be vital to their future success. By facilitating and encouraging access to post-secondary education and training programs, Aboriginal communities and post-secondary institutions will play an important role in meeting B.C.'s labour market needs, and supporting the BC Jobs Plan."

Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour -

"Building a skilled workforce in British Columbia is a key commitment for this government. With more than one million job openings expected across the province by 2020, we need to ensure that British Columbians have the skills and training they need to be first in line for the many opportunities coming our way."

Quick Facts:

The Aboriginal Community-based Delivery Partnerships Program is accessible by Aboriginal learners who are 18 years or older and living in B.C.

To be eligible for ATEP, participants must be of Aboriginal heritage, 18 years or older, unemployed and not receiving EI benefits, or employed but without a high school diploma.

Nearly 25,000 students a year who enrol in public post-secondary education identify themselves as Aboriginal.

In 2010, over 2,700 credentials were awarded to Aboriginal students - a 17 per cent increase over 2007.

Under the Labour Market Agreement (LMA), the Government of Canada is providing the B.C. government approximately $66 million annually until 2013-14 to fund employment and skills training programs and services for employed people who are low-skilled and for unemployed individuals who are not eligible for Employment Insurance.

As a direct result of federal LMA funding, thousands of British Columbians are receiving training that will advance their careers, assist in securing new employment and ultimately improve the social and economic outcomes of individuals in B.C. and Canada.

Learn More:

Aboriginal Training for Employment Program and Aboriginal Community-based Delivery Partnerships Program: www.aved.gov.bc.ca/aboriginal/programs.htm

Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement: www.aved.gov.bc.ca/labourmarketagreement/

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan: www.bcjobsplan.ca

BC Skills and Training Plan: www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills/

Two backgrounders follow.

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

BACKGROUNDER 1

Aboriginal Community-based Delivery Partnerships Program (ACBDPP)

ACBDPP was introduced as part of the Aboriginal Post-Secondary Education and Training Policy Framework and Action Plan in 2012. Funding for this two-year program is being provided through the governments of British Columbia and Canada ($2 million from the Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology; $5 million from the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement [LMA]); and $1 million in 2012-13 and $2 million in 2013-14 from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada.

ACBDPP partnership agreements to deliver programs for Aboriginal learners in British Columbia:

Partners: Northern Lights College & Seabird Island Band
Funding: $337,327
Program summary: Aboriginal oil and gas field operators - dual credit ABE and Adult Dogwood graduation diploma at Seabird College in Agassiz, followed by oil and gas field operator certificate training by NLC in Agassiz, and simulated oil and gas training in Fort St. John.

Partners: Vancouver Island University & Cowichan Tribes
Funding: $261,667
Program summary: Welder "C" - certificate delivered at Pacific Energy adjacent to Cowichan Tribes in Duncan, and CORE training module of essential skills, math, English, career development and transition to employment.

Partners: Vancouver Island University & Cowichan Tribes
Funding: $213,943
Program summary: Applied business technology - administrative assistant - certificate of applied business technology and CORE training module of essential skills, math, English, career development and transition to employment.

Partners: Vancouver Island University & Cowichan Tribes
Funding: $194,967
Program summary: Health care assistant - health care assistant Aboriginal focus and CORE training of essential skills, math, English, career development and transition to employment.

Partners: Vancouver Island University & Heiltsuk Nation
Funding: $295,109
Program summary: Program offers certificate in event management to train Heiltsuk community coordinators for the upcoming Tribal Journeys Qatuwas 2014.

Partners: University of Victoria & Kwakiutl Band
Funding: $143,660
Program summary: Kwak'wala/Bak'wamk'ala developmental standard term certificate. Funding will support coursework leading to Bachelor of Education in indigenous language revitalization.

Partners: BCIT, Vancouver Native Friendship Centre & Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services
Funding: $324,840
Program summary: Piping foundations for urban Aboriginal learners - includes essential skills component followed by foundation program laddering to level 1 plumbing apprenticeship with guided work search and job coaching.

Partners: BCIT & Musqueam Indian Band
Funding: $480,518
Program summary: Carpentry foundations -includes Skill Plan/BC Construction Industry Improvement Council essential skills component leading to carpentry foundations.

Partners: North Island College & Tseshaht First Nation
Funding: $342,957
Program summary: Bridge to Success program - prepares First Nations participants for employment in the forestry industry and works in conjunction with Catalyst Paper to hire entry-level trades employees.

Partners: Okanagan College & Okanagan Indian Band
Funding: $158,443
Program summary: Aboriginal Access - education and employment access program has three streams including pre-employment training, essential skills and adult academic and career preparation.

Partners: College of New Caledonia & Lheidli T'enneh First Nation
Funding: $215,555
Program summary: Community education program - includes career exploration and planning, job readiness skills training, industry certificates, and adult basic education and relevant training to enter positions at mills, mining exploration camps and with contractors as labourers and clean-up crew for construction sites at mines.

Partners: College of New Caledonia & Burns Lake Band
Funding: $290,324
Program summary: Heavy equipment operator program - skills and education to enter positions as heavy equipment operator in various fields and industries such as construction, mining and oil and gas. In addition, participants will also receive a number of industry certificates upon successful completion of each course.

Partners: College of New Caledonia & Nak'azdli Band
Funding: $160,214
Program summary: Career and college prep capacity building program - participants receive a CNC career preparation certificate for the ABE level that they complete (fundamental, intermediate or advanced). Those who complete the necessary coursework will obtain a BC Adult Graduation Diploma (Adult Dogwood).

Partners: College of New Caledonia & Saik'uz First Nation
Funding: $232,022
Program summary: Carpentry foundation program, essential Skills training, academic upgrading, and industry certifications are included in the Building for the Future Program that will provide Saik'uz First Nation participants with the skills and education necessary for entry level positions in the construction trades.

Partners: North Island College & Port Alberni Friendship Centre
Funding: $250,726
Program summary: Aboriginal health care assistant program - delivers a culturally-supportive opportunity for Aboriginal students to develop careers in health care field in a short-term intensive program that will provide completion of a full health care assistant certificate, along with opportunities for upgrading throughout the program.

Partners: Nicola Valley Institute of Technology & Lower Similkameen Indian Band
Funding: $345,300
Program summary: Training for success - includes four training streams: agriculture, mining, environmental restoration, and teacher training with a focus on Nsyilxc?n (Okanagan) language.

Partners: Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, En'owkin Centre and Okanagan Nation
Funding: $315,070
Program summary: Program focus on helping participants achieve BC Adult Dogwood certificate and enter the workforce, or ladder into programs in the fields of language teaching, early childhood education, environmental technician, indigenous studies, fine arts and human service worker.

Partners: Thompson Rivers University & Seabird Island Band
Funding: $576,043
Program summary: Road builders/heavy equipment operator - BC Adult Dogwood certificate, cultural training, employment readiness and essential skills.

Partners: Thompson Rivers University & Lakes District Aboriginal Training Employment Society Initiative
Funding: $476,780
Program summary: Program includes four training components: BC Adult Dogwood certificate, introduction to trades, construction craft worker foundation training, and on-the-job training with industry partner (Enbridge Northern Gateway).

Partners: College of the Rockies & Ktunaxa Nation
Funding: $361,406
Program summary: Bridging Education to Employment Program includes four pathways to employment: health careers, trades, tourism hospitality and internal economy. Participants will have the opportunity to gain BC adult Dogwood certificate, College of the Rockies post-secondary course credits, industry certificates, non-credit College of the Rockies courses, and traditional knowledge.

Partners: Kwantlen Polytechnic University & Squamish Nation
Funding: $133,220
Program summary: Carpentry foundations and restoration certificate programs will help Squamish Nation students find employment. Graduates of carpentry foundations will be prepared to take carpentry level 2.

Partners: North Island College & Quatsino, Namgis and Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw First Nations
Funding: $222,536
Program summary: Program consists of four weeks essential skills training, eight weeks of job readiness training, and seven weeks of pulp orientation, and prepares First Nations learners for employment with Neucel Speciality Cellulose.

Partners: University of B.C. & Heiltsuk Nation
Funding: $132,542
Program summary: Native Indian Teacher Education Program provides Heiltsuk Nation participants with courses for laddering into the final two years of a Bachelor of Education degree at UBC. Participants will gain the skills and education necessary to enter positions in the teaching fields.

Partners: Thompson Rivers University & Ucwalmicw BC Adult Dogwood Program
Funding: $442,246 -
Program summary: BC Adult Dogwood upgrading program will provide appropriate and relevant training for entry level horticulture, agriculture, and Aboriginal tourism and trades positions and will be delivered at T'it'q'et and Tsal'álh facilities (with participants from Xwísten, Ts'k'wáylaxw, Xaxlip, Sek'wel'wás) near the town of Lillooet.

Partners: Thompson Rivers University & Ucwalmicw Aboriginal Tourism Program
Funding: $451,963 - tourism
Program summary: The Aboriginal Tourism Program will provide training for entry level Aboriginal tourism positions and participants who successfully complete the program will receive math and English ABE courses, Aboriginal Tourism Program Certificate, which includes transferable credit toward TRU's diploma and bachelor programs in tourism and a number of Tourism Industry-recognized certificates.

Partners: Thompson Rivers University & Ucwalmicw Community Garden
Funding: $502,570
Program summary: The Ucwalmicw Centre Community Garden Horticulture Certificate provides relevant training for entry level the fields of community garden, horticulture and agriculture positions and included industry-recognised certificates, and Math & English Upgrading.

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

BACKGROUNDER 2

Aboriginal Training for Employment Program (ATEP)

ATEP was introduced in 2010 with an investment of $4 million through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement (LMA). As of the end of December 2012, $8.6M had been invested and more than 900 Aboriginal people had graduated from ATEP programs offered by 35 Aboriginal organizations.

The following service providers have agreements with the Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology to deliver programs for Aboriginal learners in British Columbia:

Proponent: North East Native Advancing Society
Award: $150,000
Community: Fort St. John
Project summary: Provide specific industry training and safety certificates, skills and career exploration for 15 participants entering or re-entering workforce in B.C's Northeast region.

Proponent: Lower Stl'atl'imx Tribal Council
Award: $149,856
Community: Pemberton
Project summary: The Prepare for Employment, Entrepreneurship and Lifelong Learning program focuses on a 10-week program with onsite and online class instruction followed by 24 weeks of professional support for 15 participants and job coaching while participants are employed.

Proponent: Heiltsuk Tribal Council
Award: $90,000
Community: Bella Bella
Project summary: The Heiltsuk Tribal Council will train and hire 10 youth as special events and festivals management community coordinators to research, plan and implement a major international event called Qatuwas "People Gathering Together" 2014.

Proponent: Ktunaxa Nation
Award: $146,642
Community: Cranbrook
Project summary: Ktunaxa Nation working with Calamity Creek Guide Outfitters, Tipi Mountain Native Plants & Eco Cultural Services are committed to provide adventure and eco tourism training with a cultural context to 15 participants.

Proponent: Icon Heavy Construction
Award: $150,000
Community: Prince Rupert
Project summary: With the Gitxaala Nation, provide trades job-related training to 18 participants and explore employment in various industries.

Proponent: North Vancouver Island Aboriginal Training Society
Award: $150,000
Community: Campbell River
Project summary: The Better Employment Skills Training Program will provide an introduction to the hospitality and services industry for 15 participants to develop an understanding of industry and employer expectations, and develop the skills and certification to enhance industry retention and advancement.

Proponent: Prince George Native Friendship Centre
Award: $150,000
Community: Prince George
Project summary: The program consists of three 16-week sessions for 30 participants (10 per session). Pre-employment training will be a combination of certificate skills enhancement training, essential skills, personal management, employment maintenance, career planning, job search skills and workplace training.

Proponent: NEC Native Education Centre
Award: $84,248
Community: Vancouver
Project summary: NEC delivering semester of the newly revised Applied Business Technology Certificate program to 14 participants.

Proponent: NEC Native Education Centre
Award: $150,000
Community: Vancouver
Project summary: Training for 16 participants to work in various health care industry sectors such as hospitals, long term care facilities, home support agencies, elder care and Aboriginal service organizations. This also provides opportunities for further post secondary education after this program.

Proponent: Cariboo Chilcotin Aboriginal Training Employment Centre Society
Award: $120,000
Community: Anahim Lake
Project summary: Along with SAGE Trainers/Thompson River University, Ulkatcho and West Chilcotin Forest Products have designed a training program that will be delivered on-reserve to 12 participants. The program will provide certificates recognized in the labour market and a job coach will provide 24/7 support to the trainees, ensuring success of the program.

Proponent: Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society (ACCESS)
Award: $150,000
Community: Vancouver
Project summary: The boilermaker foundation program will connect 15 participants with industry-recognized and certified training leading to employment. Graduating participants will have the life skills and technical skills to work as first-year apprentices in the boilermaker trade, basic skills to go on and complete a four-year apprenticeship program in this trade and become Red Seal-certified.

Proponent: First Nations Emergency Services Society (FNESS)
Award: $150,000
Community: Kamloops
Project summary: In partnership with the Aboriginal Business and Community Development Centre (ABDC) and First Nations Technology Council (FNTC) will provide training to 15 participants. ABDC will facilitate a group dynamics training session and FNTC will provide the information technology course delivery for the pre-employment phase.

Proponent: Takla Lake First Nation
Award: $150,000
Community: Prince George
Project summary: In partnership with the College of New Caledonia and the Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment and Training Association will provide pre employment training and support for 16 participants in the forestry, mining and construction industries and the Band Office Administration.

Proponent: Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment and Training Association (PGNAETA)
Award: $149,999.33
Community: Prince George
Project summary: With the support of CN Rail, Chinook Scaffolding and Fortis BC, PGNAETA will deliver three training intakes to 33 participants in the construction, transportation and the service sector.

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Funding research for a better tomorrow

2013-03-22T17:45:00Z

VICTORIA - Four universities recently benefited from nearly $1.9 million in funding for 17 research infrastructure projects under the British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund, announced Ralph Sultan, Minister of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology.

"These awards enable research and innovation at our universities that has the potential to make significant contributions to the quality of life in British Columbia, while supporting B.C.'s Technology Strategy," said Sultan. "We are proud of the work that is being done at our world-class universities - a great example of that is UBC's Brain Research Centre, which is addressing the growing crisis of dementia in our elderly population, including Alzheimer's, stroke and Parkinson's disease."

Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested more than $457 million for 847 research infrastructure projects worth over $1.32 billion at British Columbia's public post-secondary institutions. The latest awards include:

University of Victoria:

$199,999 - Research lab to study effects of environmental change on fish populations and habitats.

$80,000 - Equipment for a lab to study coastal erosion and sandy beach dune dynamics.

$72,000 - Infrastructure to support the new Marine Ecology and Conservation Centre for research into coastal resources and ecosystem services.

$62,000 - Research into alternative energy/power technology, and health and biotechnology.

University of British Columbia:

$392,000 - Lab to study the effects of land use and climate changes on the ecosystem.

$200,000 - Equipment for research in the health-biotechnology sector, focused on natural products biosynthesis and X-ray crystallography.

$126,301 - Equipment used in studies aimed at improving lives and survival of people diagnosed with cancer, diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders.

$125,000 - Research into the global increase in diabetes in people.

$125,000 - Equipment for research in the biotechnology sector.

$122,167 - Research into restoration ecology.

$75,000 - Research to improve the health of individuals with spinal cord injury.

$56,944 - Project to advance research in areas of physical activity, mobility and cognitive neuroscience.

University of Northern British Columbia:

$11,349 - Equipment to study effects of absences from a person's home community for purposes of employment.

Simon Fraser University:

$90,000 - Research into data collection activities in the areas of social networks-media, genomics and personalized medicine.

Learn More:

British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund: www.aved.gov.bc.ca/researchandinnovation/Funding/BCKDF/index.htm

Contact:

Dan Gilmore
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400
Dan.Gilmore@gov.bc.ca

Over $1.1 million for training simulators in Kootenays

2013-03-08T14:30:00Z

CRANBROOK - Students at College of the Rockies who are training to work in the Kootenays' thriving mining sector will have access to the latest mining truck haul simulators thanks to over $1.1 million in investment from the government of British Columbia and the Columbia Basin Trust.

The B.C. government has invested $580,000 to support the program, and the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) has invested $560,000. The college has been working closely with both partners and with industry to ensure they can put the latest tools in the hands of B.C. students.

The funding will help the college to buy simulators, plus a truck and trailer to transport the equipment between campuses to ensure that as many students as possible benefit from the new equipment.

The provincial government funding is part of $17 million announced last September for public post-secondary institutions around the province to upgrade skills training equipment. It aligns with BC Skills and Training Plan priorities to ensure that students get access to the right training tools and that skills training matches the needs of regional economies around the province.

Quotes:

Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"Our resource industries remain a key part of B.C.'s economy. So it's vital that the right trades training equipment is available to our post-secondary institutions to ensure students enter the labour market with the skills the sector needs. This funding will enable the college to continue their excellent work, training students for the mining industry's needs today and in the future."

Neil Muth, Columbia Basin Trust president and CEO -

"This is an important program as it addresses two needs: the need of basin employers to find trained labour, and the need of basin residents to be qualified for local jobs. Congratulations to the College of the Rockies for leading this initiative and helping to foster the economic well-being of our region."

Nick Rubidge, president and CEO, College of the Rockies -

"We are absolutely thrilled to receive this funding. This is good news for not only the college but for students looking to learn here in the Kootenays. The simulators will prepare our students for job opportunities across the province."

Quick Facts:

In January, College of the Rockies received $443,842 for skills training equipment. The additional $580,000 brings the B.C. government Skills and Training plan investment to over $1 million in 2012-13.
A 2012 report by the Mining Industry Human Resources council in conjunction with the Mining Association of BC indicated that the top two mining sector in-demand occupations in the next 10 years will be heavy-equipment operators and truck drivers. Their forecast indicates that of 11,330 workers needed in the B.C. mining industry, 6,370 will be needed in the Kootenays.

Learn More:

For more information on B.C. Jobs Plan and Skills Training Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/skills-and-training-plan/

College of the Rockies is situated in the Kootenays in south eastern B.C. It has two campuses in Cranbrook and a further four in Fernie, Golden, Invermere and Kimberley. Learn more at: http://www.cotr.bc.ca/

CBT supports efforts to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. To learn more about CBT programs and initiatives, call 1 800 505-8998 or visit: www.cbt.org

Media Contacts:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400

Rachel Lucas
Manager, Communications
Columbia Basin Trust
250 426-1103

Emily Carr University of Art + Design one step closer to new campus

2013-03-08T00:00:00Z

VANCOUVER - Today marked a major milestone toward a new home for British Columbia's only art and design university. The release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) launches the competitive selection process for a new Emily Carr University of Art + Design campus at Great Northern Way.

The RFQ is a competitive process that invites teams to indicate their interest and qualifications to design, build, finance and maintain a new campus for the university. Emily Carr University expects to shortlist up to three teams, which will then be invited to respond to a Request for Proposals (RFP).

Founded as the Vancouver School of Art in 1925, Emily Carr is the only specialized post-secondary institution in British Columbia offering programs in fine arts, media arts and design exclusively. Emily Carr is one of only four such institutions in Canada, and is consistently recognized nationally and internationally for the excellence of its faculty, students and alumni.

The new facilities for Emily Carr University will further B.C.'s reputation as a destination for world-class post-secondary education by allowing the university to enhance the education and skills training in media, design and art programs in ways that have not been possible due to site constraints of the current Granville Island campus.

Construction on the project is expected to take approximately 24 months and to be completed by summer 2016.

Emily Carr University has engaged Partnerships British Columbia Inc. (Partnerships BC) to manage the competitive selection process for the project.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be approximately $134 million.

Learn More:

Visit the project website: www.ecuad.ca/gnwcampus/

Media Contacts:

Dan Gilmore
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400
Dan.gilmore@gov.bc.ca

Barry Patterson
Executive Director of Communications
Emily Carr University of Art + Design
604 844-3078
bpatterson@ecuad.ca

Three support staff agreements ratified

2013-03-04T23:30:00Z

VICTORIA - The board of the Post-Secondary Employers' Association (PSEA) has ratified three support staff agreements reached under the 2012 Cooperative Gains Mandate, Minister of Finance Michael de Jong announced today.

Each four-year agreement includes zero per cent wage increases for the first two years, consistent with the 2010 Net Zero Mandate, and four staged increases of one per cent over the third and fourth years, funded from savings found within existing budgets as required under the 2012 Cooperative Gains Mandate.

Almost three-quarters of the people working in B.C.'s public sector now have tentative or ratified agreements settled under the 2012 Cooperative Gains Mandate. This represents over one-third of all agreements.

Following local ratification by union members and college boards, the PSEA board provided the final sign-off on the agreements between BCGEU support staff and BCIT, at Okanagan College, and at Kwantlen Polytechnic University with BCGEU Local 703. These agreements cover about 2,000 staff working in a variety of positions ranging from information technology, instructional assistants, administration and lab support workers, as well as library technicians, facilities and other services that support students and the institutions.

The PSEA reached a template compensation agreement in December for support staff on behalf of 12 participating colleges, institutes, and teaching universities and their respective unions, including the BCGEU, CUPE and COPE, which organized as an association for the purposes of these negotiations. These three support staff agreements have adopted that template.

The B.C. government has been clear that there is no new money to fund wage increases and there is no desire to download these costs onto families or future generations. The 2012 Cooperative Gains Mandate provides public-sector employers with the ability to negotiate modest wage increases funded from savings within existing budgets, not adding costs to taxpayers and ratepayers and not sacrificing services.

Settlements under the 2012 mandate are expected to be unique between sectors and between employers in some sectors.

Quotes:

Minister of Finance Michael de Jong -

"Almost three-quarters of unionized employees in B.C.'s public sector are now covered under negotiated settlements, despite the tough fiscal environment. These agreements show significant progress is being made under the 2012 Cooperative Gains Mandate."

"This mandate gives employers and unions the opportunity to find creative solutions, and this means no two settlements are going to be alike. We are going to see unique settlements in every sector and with each employer."

Quick Facts:

The 2012 Cooperative Gains Mandate applies to all public-sector employers whose collective agreements expire on or after Dec. 31, 2011.
About 300,000 unionized workers are employed in the public service, at Crown corporations and agencies, and in the kindergarten-to-Grade 12, post-secondary, health and community social services sectors.

Learn More:

Updated bargaining information is available at: http://www.fin.gov.bc.ca/psec/

Media Contacts:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Finance
250 356-9872

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Advanced Education, Innovation and Technology
250 952-6400