NDP MLAs say Vancouver post-secondary students will benefit from new technology and trades equipment

VANCOUVER – NDP MLAs Brenda Bailey and Melanie Mark say students will gain hands-on skills thanks to new technology and trades equipment upgrades at the Emily Carr University of Art & Design, Langara College, and Vancouver Community College (VCC).

“The pandemic has had a major impact on so many and their livelihoods, and now more than ever, people are looking for new ways to gain skills and stability,” said Brenda Bailey, MLA for Vancouver-False Creek. “With this new trades equipment and technology at VCC, our government is investing in people and helping them get the hands-on training that will lead to resilient and rewarding careers.”

“Accessible and affordable training at VCC and Emily Carr will open doors for new opportunities for many of my constituents who are working hard to secure their dream job close to home,” said Melanie Mark, MLA for Vancouver-Mount Pleasant. “Whether its training as a red seal, supporting the tourism and hospitality industry or venturing on a career in film, this investment provides students with access to new equipment and state-of-the-art technology so that these future grads are ready to hit the ground running as we prepare for our post pandemic recovery.”

The three institutions will each receive new technology and trades equipment upgrades for the following programs:

  • Emily Carr University of Art & Design (Great Northern Way) – Animation, Film and Screen Arts, Industrial Design, Interaction Design
  • Langara College – Bioinformatics, Web & Mobile App Design and Development
  • Vancouver Community College (Broadway and Downtown campuses) – Automotive Collison and Refinishing, Automotive Service Technician, Baking & Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts

Emily Carr, Langara and VCC are three of 20 institutions across the province that are each receiving up to $150,000 to buy equipment for trades and technology programs, with a total government investment of $3 million. Public post-secondary institutions will replace obsolete equipment and acquire up-to-date technology, which will ensure students’ training remains relevant and meets the needs of employers.

Investing in advanced education and skills training for people is part of the New Democrat government’s plan to build back a stronger B.C. for everyone.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021AEST0071-002111