Future civil engineers at Okanagan College (OC) are getting a high-tech boost, thanks to a generous donation from GeoVerra.
Students working with the new equipment.
GeoVerra has donated six global navigation satellite survey (GNSS) systems, valued at $77,900, to OC's Civil Engineering Technology program. This cutting-edge equipment ensures students, like first-year learner Lane Wiebe, gain practical, hands-on experience with tools they'll use in today's technologically advanced construction industry.
"Knowing that companies like GeoVerra are invested in our success is pretty motivating," said Wiebe. "It's exciting to know we're learning with tools we'll actually use in the field, and that companies recognize the value of our education."
With access to industry-standard GNSS systems, students are mastering essential surveying skills, preparing them for careers in civil and geotechnical engineering. This donation is paving the way for OC graduates to meet the demands of an evolving industry.
"GeoVerra's donation is substantial as this survey equipment is commonly used on construction sites locally and throughout the world and will help us prepare our students for today's modern construction sector," said Chris Pieper, civil engineering technology professor at Okanagan College.
"We know that 93 per cent of our civil engineering technology grads are employed in the industry so it's essential that we are preparing them for their careers."
Industry partnerships like this are part of the advantage that OC offers students. While companies like GeoVerra provide donations of funding and equipment to students, they also offer employment opportunities for grads.
"GeoVerra is proud to support Okanagan College's civil engineering CET program by donating industry leading survey equipment," said Shawn Hearn, director, equipment and asset management at GeoVerra.
"We understand the importance of empowering the next generation with education and tools that foster innovation, ensuring a bright and technologically advanced future. GeoVerra is honoured to contribute to the growth and education of aspiring geomatics professionals at Okanagan College, nurturing the future of the industry."
The equipment will be used regularly by civil engineering students during their labs, giving them hands-on training with industry-standard equipment.
"We are incredibly thankful to donors like GeoVerra and other community partners who are supporting skills training at OC," says Pieper.
The GeoVerra gift is one of several in support of equipment for the Civil Engineering Technology program at Okanagan College. In total, $166,550 has been raised to provide students with state-of-the-art equipment to ensure they graduate with the skills and hands-on experience needed to excel in their careers.
To learn more about supporting programs and students at Okanagan College, visit okanagan.bc.ca/OC-Foundation.
