Belleville, Ontario, September 4, 2014 – After graduating its first class in Aboriginal Construction Renovation earlier this year, Loyalist College is pleased to announce the return of the 16-week program, funded by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. Registration is now open for classes beginning October 6, 2014.
Students in the program gain hands-on experience in construction and renovation, preparing them for employment opportunities in their field or further study in Construction Renovation at Loyalist. In addition to applied construction renovation skills, the program delivers core classes in math, communications, computers and portfolio development, as well as industry-recognized certificates in health and safety training. Upon successful completion of the program, students graduate with a Loyalist College Certificate.
Shane Kimball graduated from the inaugural Aboriginal Construction Renovation program this spring. Today he begins his diploma studies in the two-year Construction Renovation Technician program at Loyalist.
“When I completed the certificate program, I felt that I had found something that was my own, something that I could do well,” explains Shane. “We built storage sheds for Bon Echo Provincial Park and a floating dock at Quinte Mohawk School. They were real projects, things that were of value to the communities. My success in the certificate program has prompted me to pursue this career path further and I am really looking forward to beginning classes.”
“We are really excited to be receiving funding for the second time for a program that encourages our Aboriginal students to explore their interest in construction, and gain confidence in their abilities to continue on to college or the workforce,” notes Ann Drennan, Dean of Applied Sciences, Skills and Technology. “The program is designed in such a way that time is spent not only in the classroom but also working on actual community projects. It’s a great example of Loyalist’s commitment to community partnerships.”
The Aboriginal Construction Renovation program is open to Aboriginal people who are unemployed or underemployed. Tuition is free for those accepted into the program; please note that students will require support for a living allowance. Those interested in applying or learning more about this opportunity are encouraged to contact the Loyalist College Aboriginal Resource Centre at 613-969-1913, ext. 2250.
About Loyalist College
Located on 212 acres in the beautiful Bay of Quinte region, Loyalist College is a close-knit community where students and their success come first. Internationally renowned for its enriched student learning and living experiences, Loyalist provides personalized attention in small classes, rewarding field placements and superior success services. To prepare students for in-demand careers, Loyalist offers 65 full-time programs; apprenticeships; and more than 500 online, distance and in-class courses, as well as opportunities for continuing education through more than 70 university transfer agreements. The College’s wide selection of advanced diplomas, diplomas and certificates aligns with market-driven disciplines including applied sciences, biosciences, building sciences, business and management studies, health sciences, human studies, justice studies, media, arts and design, and skills and technology. In Ontario, the College’s new Digital Media Centre and the LEED® Silver certified Sustainable Skills, Technology and Life Sciences Centre are training centres of choice for students, as well as College business and industry partners. For more information on the College’s Belleville and Bancroft campuses, visit loyalistcollege.com.
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Contact: Deiana Gonyea, Assistant,
Aboriginal Resource Centre, Loyalist College,
dgonyea@loyalistc.on.ca, 613-969-1913, ext. 2250