Marlin Schmidt, Minister of Advanced Education (fifth from right), visited Lakeland College Vermilion on April 13, and met with staff and trades students discussing future upgrades, and encouraged them as they near exams. Photo Angela Mouly
Lakeland College will receive funding to complete major repairs to the exterior of its Trades Centre, helping students continue to train for good jobs.
Located on Lakeland’s Vermilion campus, the Trades Centre offers educational opportunities in nine different trades. Over the years, the centre has experienced leaking and water damage on the roof and side exteriors. With this funding, students will continue to get the skills they need in the safe, comfortable, modern environment they deserve, and Lakeland College will get the upgrades it needs to go on training Albertans for careers in the trades.
“Preparing Albertans for success doesn’t just mean investing in teachers and textbooks, it also means ensuring all our schools have modern classrooms and facilities as well. After years of neglect and cuts by the previous government, I’m proud to invest in the safe, clean and world-class learning spaces that our students deserve. Our continued support for these essential repairs and campuses like Lakeland College creates jobs, improves the quality of education and makes life better for everyone.” said Marlin Schmidt, Minister of Advanced Education.
Government will provide $6 million through the Capital Maintenance and Renewal budget for the repairs, which are expected to take up to two years to complete and provide employment for up to 50 people.
“This investment from the Government of Alberta allows us to make needed repairs to the Trades Centre and extend the life of this important facility. The Trades Centre is home to many of our apprenticeship and pre-employment programs as well as continuing education courses. In addition, high school students from throughout the region take Career and Technology Studies courses and dual credit programs in our classrooms and labs, and participate in the Lakeland Regional Skills Competition we host. With this investment, we’ll be able to improve our facility and continue to play an important role in creating a skilled workforce.” said Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president & CEO, Lakeland College.