EVES DOUBLES INVESTMENT FOR APPRENTICESHIP
TRAINING
PETERBOROUGH — Ernie Eves, Ontario’s
Premier, today announced the government will
double its commitment to the Apprenticeship
Enhancement Fund to $10 million in order to
modernize training facilities for apprentice
programs at Ontario’s community colleges.
“We have created an economic climate
in Ontario that is attracting investment and
created jobs, which is why we must provide our
students with the essential skills that are
needed to stay competitive in this rapidly changing
environment,” Eves said. “By expanding
community college training facilities and doubling
the number of students entering our apprenticeship
programs, we will be better prepared to face
these challenges head-on.”
The Apprenticeship Enhancement Fund was introduced
in 2001. It gives community colleges the resources
to provide hands-on training to more apprentices,
support classroom training for new skilled trades,
improve the efficiency of apprenticeship classroom
instruction and remove barriers to training
for persons with disabilities.
St. Lawrence College will receive $500,808
to expand its electrical training program and
consolidate the carpentry programs from leased
facilities to the Kingston campus. Under the
program, SLC will be able to purchase new equipment
such as a portable power threader to ensure
plumbers are training on modern technology;
fire alarm panels to train as industrial, construction
and maintenance electricians, and new equipment
for general contracting training.
Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman said the new
money will provide SLC with resources to improve
its apprenticeship training and therefore qualify
students for better jobs.
“Today’s investment will enhance
our curriculum and we appreciate it very much,”
said Dianne Moldaver, Director, Fleming Training
Services. “As apprenticeship training
becomes more technologically advanced, our students
will benefit from having the most up-to-date
equipment and facilities.”
Today’s announcement supports the government’s
commitment of providing Ontarians with the most
up-to-date skills to be competitive in today’s
changing economy.
