July 14, 2010 - Centre of Excellence for Trades and Technology is on target for completion

Northern College’s Centre of Excellence for Trades and Technology is on target for completion in time for classes commencing the September 2010 academic semester.

The Centre will feature 33,000 square feet of new and renovated space with a 12,000 square foot simulated industrial trades shop; new lecture theatres; classrooms and labs with Smart Technology; industrial science labs; meeting and boardrooms; student commons areas; and a state-of-the-art Tele-presence Studio.

Through a $4 Million investment in next-generation video conferencing equipment, the Centre will also begin to deliver trades training directly to the Moosonee Campus.

Starting September, Northern will offer a 2-year Mechanical Engineering Technician program as well as several new apprenticeship programs in block format training in General Carpentry, Millwright and Heavy Duty Equipment.

Pending Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities approval, the following 2-year programs are also ready to be offered this September: Motive Power Technician-Automotive Service, Motive Power Technician-Heavy Equipment and Mechanical Technician – Industrial Millwright.

Although there remains a $1 million dollar shortfall in fundraising required to equip the new Centre, projected construction costs of $17.3M remain on target, as approved by the College’s Board of Governors. “Success in completing this remaining fundraising goal is critical to the College being able to provide students with the opportunity to learn and train utilizing the latest technologies. This is what gives our students a competitive advantage when seeking employment,” said Northern College President, Fred Gibbons.

Individuals, organizations or companies wishing to contribute to the growth of their community college and its programs may contact the College’s Foundation office at (705) 235-7210.

Media Contact:

Fred Gibbons, President
705-235-7136

or

Pierrette Fortier,
President’s Office
705-235-7136

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