WHEREAS there is an urgent need for technologists and engineers in BC; AND WHEREAS the BC economy can be strong only if a truly knowledge based resource industry can be built and maintained while adding value to the resources we extract; AND WHEREAS sufficient technical skills are required to build, innovate and create jobs in the bio-energy, transportation, mining, petrochemical, liquefied natural gas, pulp and paper, and construction sectors; AND WHEREAS access to local training opportunities creates certainty for recruitment and retention: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the provincial government develop a strategy for technical and engineering education, allowing for a seamless transfer from colleges to universities; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the provincial government provide funding for technology and engineering programs where such programs are not currently available.
Ministry of Advanced Education Recognizing that British Columbia is projected to see significant economic growth and job creation, government is committed to ensuring that the Provinces post-secondary education system provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to fill jobs and that training programs are aligned with labour market demand. In July 2013, the Ministry of Advanced Education announced support for two new graduate engineering programs that will be offered by the University of Northern British Columbia and delivered at the Wood Innovation and Design Centre in Prince George. The Ministry is providing up to 466,000 to fund start-up costs for the programs that will commence in September 2015. Under the BC Jobs Plan, government has supported regional workforce tables as a forum for educators, employers, industry representatives and other regional stakeholders to plan how to align training programs with regional needs. In September 2010, government proclaimed the 201011 school year as the Year of Science. This was a 10 million initiative to inspire young people to consider future careers in science, technology, engineering and math-related occupations. Today, technical and engineering training programs are offered at post-secondary programs across the Province and, because British Columbia has one of North Americas most robust post-secondary transfer systems, students are able to transition between institutions and receive credit for previously-completed programs and courses.