Thanks to the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP), students enrolled in Medicine Hat College's (MHC) School of Trades and Technology will continue to benefit from scholarship and bursary funding, while future students gain exposure to programs that support the oil and gas industry.
Sparking interest in trades and technology programs, MHC and CAPP co-presented an event called Exploring Futures: Navigating Trades, Technology and Health Pathways on Wednesday, May 15.
The event provided the opportunity for 300 middle school students to participate in a full day of hands-on activities led by college instructors on the Medicine Hat campus. Activities took place in MHC's trades labs and included wiring a light bulb, lighting a hot water tank, welding, and learning about a pump lab system.
Supported by CAPP, the goal of the event was to give youth direct hands-on experience to empower them to shape their future careers, says Dr. Morgan Blair, dean of MHC's School of Trades and Technology.
"Careers in trades, tech, and health are great options for youth because they are in high demand and offer good salaries," adds Blair. "Ultimately, we want youth to become contributing members of society who give back, are self-sufficient, healthy, and happy. By providing opportunities like these, we can help them imagine all the career pathways they could choose."
In addition to creating opportunities for future students, CAPP is also supporting current students, contributing to scholarship and bursary awards.
Renewed for future access to awards, students and apprentices in MHC's power engineering technology, steamfitter/pipefitter, heavy equipment technician, electrician, and welder programs will be eligible to apply for awards valued up to $4000 each for an additional three years starting in 2025.
Blair adds, for some learners funding is key to program completion and allows them to focus on their studies.
"We are honoured to recognize CAPP's contribution to the next generation of learners in these industries, and in our region. For some, this funding will mean they have an opportunity to learn a skillset that they can use to build rewarding careers."
Eligible students in apprenticeship programs will be selected by faculty to receive funding based on academic achievement.
Chief finance officer for CAPP, Elmien Wingert, says the organization is proud to partner with MHC to support trades and technology programs.
"Investments in programs such as these are integral to the industry's overall success as people are at the heart of our organization," says Wingert. "We are pleased to help enhance the programs and support learning, allowing more students to thrive and succeed. Today's students are the future workforce and leaders in our communities."
November 25, 2024
