Province Supports NSCC Aviation Program
People interested in joining Nova Scotia's booming aerospace industry got a boost today, Feb. 3, Labour and Workforce Development Minister Mark Parent and Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) president Joan McArthur-Blair announced.
In response to industry demand, the Department of Labour and Workforce Development will provide a one-time program development fund of $360,000 for aviation training at NSCC.
"We are all aware of the present economic challenges, but there continue to be great opportunities in this province," said Mr. Parent. "The department is constantly exploring new approaches to working with industry sectors and education partners to find innovative solutions and approaches to our workforce challenges. Today, I think it's safe to say we've succeeded."
Aviation programs are expensive and run on a cost-recovery basis. Ms. McArthur-Blair announced that college savings on program delivery will be passed on to students. NSCC will reduce tuition for students entering aviation programs in 2009 by 25 per cent.
"At NSCC, accessibility is a very important part of our mandate," said Ms. McArthur-Blair. "NSCC is proud of the role we can play in working with industry and government to come up with creative solutions that lead to relevant learning and meaningful employment for Nova Scotians."
The program development funding will also support adding a new program. Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Structures) is a 10-month certificate program that will provide students with the skills needed to maintain the structural integrity of aircraft. The program was developed in response to industry demand for skilled workers.
"Despite the current downturn in the world economy, we still envision 600 new jobs in the aerospace sector in this province yearly for the next several years," said David Cogdon, executive director of the Aerospace and Defence Human Resources Partnership. "A collaborative approach, new training opportunities and greater access to training for all Nova Scotians are key elements in a successful and growing aerospace and defence sector in the province."
NSCC is a vibrant post-secondary institution committed to building Nova Scotia's economy and quality of life through education and innovation. NSCC offers more than 100 programs in five academic schools that reflect the labour market needs and opportunities of the provincial economy, and serves the province through a network of 13 campuses. According to NSCC's most recent survey of graduates (2008), 92 per cent of NSCC graduates are employed; 88 per cent in their field of study. For more information about NSCC, go to www.nscc.ca .