by Sherri Hogan

Holland College's Renewable Resource Management Technology (RRMT) program, which trains students as renewable resource technicians to work in the field of fish and wildlife conservation, has received Accreditation from the North American Wildlife Technology Association.

The North American Wildlife Technology Association (NAWTA) is dedicated to the promotion and advancement of wildlife technology. NAWTA develops curriculum guidelines and reviews wildlife technology programs. Only those programs that comply with the educational requirements, and abide by industry standards, receive accreditation.

"Our organization was formed to promote the fish and wildlife technician and provide potential employers some assurance that graduates from member institutions have met our expectations of competent training," said Richard C. Lindsay, Executive Director of NAWTA. "We offer instructors a forum for professional development and assistance in education which is very unique. Ben Hoteling (Instructor of the Renewable Resource Management program) delivered an excellent presentation outlining Holland College's program before representatives from nine colleges across North America prior to receiving the award. We are very proud to have Holland College aboard."

For Holland College's Renewable Resource Management Technology program, the accreditation provides credibility and validation from this independent, outside agency. The accreditation also allows graduates of the program to receive an NAWTA certificate, which is recognized North American wide and sought after by employers.

Dr. Brian McMillan, Holland College's Executive Director of Program Operations, applauds the efforts of staff in the Renewable Resource Management Technology program, saying this accreditation will reap benefits for the college, instructional staff and students in the program. Dr. McMillan explained there is a growing demand to have all technology courses accredited, as students want to know that their program has a national seal of approval.

"Graduates of the Renewable Resource Management Technology program will now be recognized across North America as Wildlife Technicians and this international accreditation will greatly broaden employment opportunities for Holland College graduates", says Jim Jenkins, Chair of the program's Advisory Committee and Chief, Resource Management, Fisheries and Oceans Canada. "This level of technical training speaks well of the College's unique ability to incorporate industry's requirements in the workplace and academic standards which are recognized on an international basis. These higher standards will open employment opportunities across North America for Holland College students and provide employers with new staff who can adapt to a wide variety of work situations."