New funding for trades training equipment at TRU

NEWS/ TRU — Thompson Rivers University will receive $325,274 to purchase new trades training equipment as part of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint. The new equipment will support trades students who are entering in-demand occupations that are critical to the economy.

“Thompson Rivers University continues to work with government and industry so that our students can have increased access to the training and technology they need to get jobs,” said TRU president Alan Shaver.

“Our collaboration with our industry partners ensures we deliver first-class trades training and certification that is highly responsive to labour market needs.”

The $325,274 in 2014-15 for trades training equipment is part of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint commitment of $185 million over three years for trades training infrastructure and equipment at public post-secondary institutions.

“Trades students will help build our economy. Many of the in-demand occupations are trades related such as heavy-duty mechanics, gas fitters and electricians,” said Advanced Education Minister Andrew Wilkinson.

Trades training equipment TRU will purchase with the provincial funding will include a power threader for pipefitter/plumbing students, jacking and lifting equipment for heavy mechanic students, a scaffolding kit for carpentry students, a gas-fired warm air heating trainer for gasfitter students, and two Rational ovens for culinary arts students.