The College of New Caledonia in Quesnel is preparing to welcome students back into high-demand programs in modernized facilities.
Chris Montgomery-Hewett, Dean of Trades and Technologies, says two new programs, Power Engineering fourth class and apprentice welding will be offered this year.
“We are very excited to offer these programs that Quesnel students will benefit from. The Power Lab has been a project for the College. It’s really great for students to be able to access the education they need and close to where they live.”
Montgomery-Hewett said Power Engineering starts at fourth class proceeding to third, second and first class.
“With welding we offer both Foundation and Apprenticeship levels. Allowing people to come into apprenticeship from various routes, whether they have an employer currently or not with welding and with Foundations it really helps them get their foot in the door. Those that are apprentices will be able to take it closer to home if they have been travelling to potentially a Prince George Campus or other Colleges outside of their Region. Power Engineering we have been running in Prince George, fourth class and third class so we’re really happy to offer fourth class in Quesnel and really hoping that it supports and the surrounding community.”
Courses will take place in an expanded trades wing at the Quesnel Campus.
It includes a new high-pressure steam boiler, an expanded computer simulation lab, a new welding lab, atrium, and additional yard space.
The BC government contributed $5.5 million to the renovations, with the College of New Caledonia providing the remaining $1.3 million.
The one year Power Engineering Fourth Class begins in August 2024 and is open to high school graduates or those with equivalent experience.
According to the BC Labour Market Outlook, the province will need more than 14-hundred new power engineers in the next ten years.
Apprentice Welding starts in February and apprentices must have their employer register them with Industry Training Authority and fill out the application online.