Holland College has signed a memorandum of understanding with Skills Canada PEI. Skills Canada PEI, a non-profit organization funded by the Government of Canada, works with employers, educators, labour groups and governments to promote skilled trades and technology careers among Island youth. The agreement will bring SCPEI operations under the college umbrella.

SCPEI board president Collin Affleck said the new agreement is mutually beneficial.

"The partnership with Holland College is one of the most important events in the history of Skills Canada PEI. SCPEI and Holland College have always worked closely together, so the decision to partner with Holland College was an easy one for the board of directors. This new relationship will help both organizations achieve their primary objectives; it will help Skills Canada PEI in its mission to increase awareness around careers in trades and technology."

Tawna MacLeod has been appointed Executive Director of SCPEI. Ms. MacLeod has an extended history within both organizations, and was part of the working team during the 2009 National Skills Competition hosted in Charlottetown.

"I'm really looking forward to the new challenges offered by the position. Though PEI is the smallest province in Canada, Island youth always do a spectacular job of representing our province at the National level," she said.

"The mandates of both the College and SCPEI are closely aligned; SCPEI to promote skilled trades and technology as a viable career option, and Holland College to deliver training in these areas."

For more information about Skills Canada PEI, visit www.skillscanada.pe.ca or call Tawna MacLeod at (902) 629-4253.