KELOWNA – Investment in trades training across the province is on the rise and an Okanagan business has decided to step up to the cause. Kelowna Flightcraft donated $500,000 to Okanagan College to expand and renovate the trades training complex at the Kelowna campus on Monday.
“I believe that people who have done well in this region should give back,” says Barry Lapointe, CEO and Chairman of Kelowna Flightcraft. “We feel strongly about supporting post-secondary education.”
In total, the project will cost $33-million which brings the fundraising campaign by Bright Horizons Building for Skills to just over $3-million.
“Barry sees what’s coming: a shortage of skilled labour and a tremendous opportunity for trained people,” said Premier Christy Clark. The province has contributed $28-million to the project which is expected to wrap up by spring 2016.
Classrooms, training shops and classes will be built along KLO Road. In total, the complex will accommodate about 2,600 students every year in various trades programs.
Also this week, Westwood Electric donated $100,000 to help support the new Trades Training Complex.
Previous story: Okanagan College excited to receive $100,000 donation
- Joffre Lakes to close for 3 periods this year under agreement with First Nations
- ‘Why aren’t we doing more?’ White Rock on edge with killer on the loose
- B.C. carjacking victim says she doesn’t trust the ‘catch-and-release’ system
- Inquest into fatal Surrey hostage-taking recommends cameras for ERT teams
Comments