As the trades continue to adapt to the modern world, students at Douglas College are set to be prepared beyond graduation.
Today (Nov. 10), the B.C. government provided a $150,000 boost to its Coquitlam campus to help replace and pay for new technology and trades equipment that meet industry standards.
More specifically, the money is earmarked for applied programs in computer science, engineering and physics.
"Our new investment will ensure students here at Douglas College and other post-secondary institutions across B.C. will gain the hands-on skills needed to be successful in their future careers," said Coquitlam-Burke Mountain MLA Fin Donnelly in a statement sent to the Tri-City News.
"It’s important that students have access to the same state-of-the-art technology and equipment that’s used within industry today."
The province says 75,000 tech-related jobs expected to be created before 2029, according to the 2019 Labour Market Outlook, as well as 73,000 jobs in the trades sector, like carpentry, construction and heavy mechanical trades.
Douglas College is getting the same cut of a $3-million investment pie among 20 total post-secondary schools across B.C.
"Investing in students is an important part of building a stronger B.C.,” said Anne Kang, advanced education and skills training minister, hoping homegrown talent can ultimately support the overall sector.
"Students across the province will have the opportunity to learn the latest techniques with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, preparing them for their future careers."
In 2021-22, the province notes it's funding more than 2,600 student spaces in tech programs at post-secondary institutions and hope to have 2,900 by 2023.
