Keyano College has committed to community engagement by partnering with the Military Museum of the RMWB. This collaboration highlights the win-win situation where the college, the museum, and the community benefit from shared resources and expertise. "This partnership is about preserving our local history while providing students with practical, one-of-a-kind learning experiences," said Dale Bendfeld, museum president.
The Military Museum of the RMWB is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of Canada's military involvement, including local heroes and historical military figures from FMWB, like Wop May, a renowned pilot from World War I. The museum plays a significant role in educating the community. It welcomes students from various schools to explore exhibits that range from the Boer War to the Cold War. The partnership with Keyano College strengthens these efforts, allowing the museum's growth and preservation efforts to continue while offering Keyano students a chance to apply their academic and technical skills in real-world settings.
One of the most exciting aspects of this partnership is the work done by students in the Heavy Equipment Technician (HET) program. Under the guidance of their instructors, these students have taken on the challenge of restoring a significant piece of the museum's collection, a self-propelled gun, the Abbot SPG, owned by Dale Bendfeld. This experience is not only a unique opportunity to work on historic military vehicles but also allows students to apply their knowledge of mechanics in an exciting, non-traditional setting. "Our students gain invaluable hands-on experience working on these military vehicles. It's a rare opportunity that enhances their technical skills and prepares them for their future careers," said Tony Gauthier, chair & instructor of HET & extended studies. The skills learned during this restoration, such as working with heavy engines and handling non-standard equipment, directly enhance the student's career prospects in the heavy equipment industry.
For those studying for the Education Programs, Governance and Civil Studies Diploma and General Arts Certificate at Keyano, this partnership provides opportunities to engage with history in ways that go beyond the classroom. Students are involved in the handling and preserving military artifacts, including rare items such as World War II firearms and uniforms. This hands-on experience helps them understand history on a deeper level. "It's a unique chance for students to step outside traditional learning and connect with the history they're studying. They get to physically interact with artifacts, learning preservation techniques that are valuable to their careers," said Kevin Rodgers, university studies history instructor and museum curator.
In conclusion, this partnership between Keyano College and the Military Museum of the RMWB is a shining example of how educational institutions can support local initiatives while providing enriching student experiences. The community gains a well-preserved military museum that tells the story of FMWB's involvement in Canada's military history. At the same time, students leave with skills, knowledge, and experiences that will shape their future careers.
