Photo Credit: CNC Quesnel

By Sam Bennison

Power Engineering

CNC Quesnel sees the return of high-demand trades programs

Jan 26, 2024 | 12:30 PM

CARIBOO—CNC will be welcoming students back to their newly upgraded power engineering and welding facilities in Quesnel next school semester.

The expansion project began in 2018 and includes a new high pressure steam boiler, an expanded computer simulation lab, a new welding lab, atrium, and additional yard space. The expansion came in at over $6.5 million with B.C contributing $5.5 million, with CNC providing the remaining amount.

Photo Credit: CNC Quesnel

“We’re thrilled to expand our trades offerings in Quesnel,” said Cindy Heitman, president of CNC. “Our top priority is making sure students get skills that directly translate into the workplace. Updated learning environments ensure students not only get the skills they need to earn their certificate, but also find long-term success in rewarding careers.”

The B.C. Labour Market Outlook expects the province will need more than 1,400 new power engineers in the next decade. With the expansion CNC looks to help meet that need by ensuring power engineering graduates receive practical and technical training to work in environments like power generation plants, pulp mills, hospitals, refineries, breweries, and hockey arenas.

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For organizations like Northern Health, having skilled trades professionals locally is an asset. G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital is optimistic about what the return of power engineering and welding could mean for their workforce in Quesnel.

“We are excited to see these trades return to the Quesnel campus,” said Al Rempel, maintenance supervisor at G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital. “With the increasing complexity of health care-related buildings and equipment, locally trained skilled professionals play an important part in delivering and maintaining health services in our community.”

The one-year Power Engineering Fourth Class will begin August 2024 and is open to high school graduates or those with equivalent experience.

Apprentice Welding begins in February 2024 and is designed for welding apprentices who have an employer sponsor. Apprentices must have their employer register them with Industry Training Authority (ITA) and fill out the application online.

“Training in power engineering fourth class or welding is a valuable entry point for students looking for a long-lasting, good-paying career in the trades,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “The expansion of trade offerings at the College of New Caledonia’s new trades wing will help grow BC’s vital skilled trades workforce and build a stronger BC.”

Applications are open visit CNC’s website for details.

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Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com