Holland College is taking a close look at the potential for expanded trades training in the alternative energy sector, so a recent meeting with the Executive Director of the Wind Energy Institute of Canada, Anne Forbes, was particularly timely, according to Holland College President Brian McMillan.
"The college is presently looking at the potential of alternative energy as part of a joint trades training expansion strategy being explored jointly with the provincial government. Holland College is committed to addressing the need for training and applied research in this area, and we are excited about exploring the potential for collaboration with the Wind Energy Institute of Canada," said Dr. McMillan.
Forbes visited various Holland College centres recently, meeting instructors and students and learning more about college programs related to the alternative energy sector such as the Electromechanical program and the Environmental Technology program; and finding out more about research and development projects currently underway.
She said the institute is interested in exploring potential partnerships with Holland College.
"The wind energy industry is growing at a significant rate that is leaving gaps in the supply chain, particularly in the manufacturing in skilled labour specific to this industry. One of WEICan's strategic areas is training and public education. We view our role as a Canadian institute to work with like-minded organizations to address supply chain deficiencies. WEICan welcomes this opportunity to explore potential partnerships with Holland College."
For more information about this release, please contact: Sara Underwood, Media and Communications Officer Tel: 902-566-9695
Date: Wednesday, November 15, 2006
