THE RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES' COUNCIL OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
Technology Talent: Investing in Students and B.C.'s Future

Students, communities and B.C.'s robust high-tech sector all stand to benefit from a major investment in technology programs at post-secondary institutions, says the Research Universities' Council of British Columbia (RUCBC).

The Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, Melanie Mark, announced an additional 2,900 student spaces for technology-related programs at post-secondary institutions across the province on January 16. January 16's funding announcement of $4.4 million, which is expected to increase to $42 million in future years, will result in 1,000 additional grads per year by 2023.

"The fastest growing segment of the BC economy is high tech and it's being fuelled by skilled graduates," said Prof. Jamie Cassels, President of the University of Victoria and Chair of the Research Universities' Council of British Columbia. "This investment will encourage innovation and provide greater opportunities for students."

Graduates with in-demand skills in science, technology and engineering are driving the province's technology industry along with those in emerging fields such as biomedical engineering, data science and environmental engineering.

"This important investment will enable post-secondary institutions to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed, and that B.C. requires to build a strong, sustainable economy," said Prof. Andrew Petter, President of Simon Fraser University. "The support provided to SFU will create a program that will help position B.C. as a leader in clean-tech and sustainable energy." 

University of British Columbia President Prof. Santa Ono said the investment has the ability to change lives. 

"It will allow UBC to expand innovative programs such as biomedical engineering where graduates are using the most advanced technology to improve human health." Prof. Ono said.

"Post-secondary institutions are responding to meet the needs of our students," said Dr. Dan Weeks, President of the University of Northern British Columbia. "Technological advancements are transforming the entire economy, including traditional industries such as forestry, resource management and agrifoods. Our graduates need to be prepared with the knowledge and talent required to invent the jobs of the future." 

Dr. Alan Shaver, President of Thompson Rivers University, said January 16's investment will have an impact in every region of British Columbia.

"This funding for post-secondary students will pay dividends to students in pursuing their careers and by supporting and strengthening B.C.'s economy," Dr. Shaver said. "An investment in our students is an investment in our province."

RUCBC represents B.C.'s research universities, promoting quality, accessibility and coordination of university education. Members include The University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, the University of Victoria, University of Northern British Columbia, Royal Roads University and Thompson Rivers University.