College of the Rockies is pleased to announce the introduction of a new micro-credential in environmental water monitoring, designed to help students develop the foundational and technical skills required to work effectively in the field, collecting and storing water samples. Upon completion, students will earn a certificate of achievement.
"We are excited to offer the pilot program for this micro-credential through our Fernie campus," said Tim Schoahs, Fernie campus manager. "We feel the skills learned will be especially applicable to our local conditions and industry, but the micro-credential prepares students for the Environmental Water Monitoring field work anywhere in the region, the province, and across Canada."
Developed in collaboration with industry specialists, the four-week Environmental Water Management micro-credential provides an intensive introduction to field work, water testing and monitoring, and prepares students for a variety of environment-related government and industry careers. Students interested in this program are eligible to apply for the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant which covers up to $3,500 for eligible short-term skills training at public post-secondary institutions.
"This new micro-credential program at COTR is a prime example of how the future skills grant is supporting British Columbians to improve and expand their skills for employment," said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. "I am excited for people across the province to benefit as people apply these new skills towards building a stronger BC."
The micro-credential starts October 15 and is comprised of online and in-person lectures, complemented by hands-on training from industry experts. In addition to the specific training in groundwater, lakewater, and rivers, students can earn valuable industry certifications.
"With access to Basic First Aid, WHMIS, H2S Aware, WildSafeBC Wildlife Awareness and Safety, Swift Water Rescue Awareness, and Canadian Aquatic Biomonitoring Network Field Technician certifications, students will be well prepared to help meet labour market demands immediately after completion," Schoahs added. "Micro-credentials like this align with our strategic goal of enhancing student experience, providing an opportunity to be job-ready in a short period of time."
The Environmental Water Monitoring micro-credential is made possible through funding from the Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills.
For more information, please go to cotr.bc.ca/water-monitoring
About the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant
The StrongerBC future skills grant empowers British Columbians to shape their own futures. The grant covers up to $3,500 for eligible short-term skills training at public post-secondary institutions aligned with the skills and labour market demands identified in B.C.'s Labour Market Outlook. These grants play a pivotal role in equipping individuals for current and future job markets, contributing to the province's economic resilience and global competitiveness.
