Confederation College: An Economic Driver for Our City
Historically, Northwestern Ontario’s resource-based industries have been the mainstay of the regional economy.
Confederation College’s partnerships help to encourage community development and capacity.
“A $10.5 million capital investment by the Ontario Government and community partners will position Confederation College to meet the needs of the labour force, industry and communities across Northwestern Ontario,” says Patricia Lang, Confederation College President. “This expansion means that we can welcome nearly 300 more learners and create more than 100 jobs.”
The Technology and Trades investment focuses on three types of programs:
Environmental
Renewable energy, clean air, water, and soil are prerequisites to healthy ecosystems and the foundation of prosperous green communities. Confederation College is focusing on preparing future workers with new knowledge and understanding of applied sciences and contemporary skills to improve the region’s global competitiveness.
Resource-Based
New funding will establish geology and geomorphology labs to train learners in mineral exploration, resource assessment and spatial data management. Line-cutter, diamond drill helper and prospector programs are offered in remote communities to address the needs of businesses and a skilled labour pool. This fall, Confederation College added a Mining Techniques program in response to the mining industry boom.
Transportation
For automotive and heavy equipment maintenance, the addition of a high-end simulator will make it possible to connect skilled trainers across the region to well-equipped, re-engineered laboratories at the main campus.
With upgrades to facilities and technologies, the environmental, resource-based and transportation programs can better serve people looking for careers and employers looking for well-trained employees.
In addition to these industries, Confederation College is responding to the growth in the medical field. A new program for medical laboratory assistants and technicians will begin early in 2009, providing the necessary training for future employment in hospitals, private and public health laboratories, clinics, research laboratories, and commercial diagnostic supply companies.
After graduation, 91% of students find work within six months. Some graduates enroll with advanced standing in colleges and universities across Canada and around the world. Over 94% of those employers are satisfied with the quality of graduates coming out of Confederation College, above the provincial average.
“Making sure that graduates are ready for their next step, whether it is to continue their education or enter the workforce, is what Confederation College is all about,” says President Lang. “Having a workforce that is prepared for the future ensures that our economy will grow today and for years to come.”
Confederation College - By the Numbers
Students: 12,000 (4,000 FT & 8,000 PT)
Graduates Since 1967: 31,000
Faculty Members: 382
Employees: 760 FT and PT
Total Spending 2007/08: $68.8 million
Current Capital Project: $10.5 million
Engineering Technology and Trades Annual Student Loans: $10 million
Annual Scholarships and Bursaries: $250,000
Direct Economic Benefit to Northwestern Ontario: $560 million
