Impala Canada and Confederation College Partner to Build Skilled Trades Capacity in the North
Impala Canada and Confederation College announced that, together, they will work towards building a pipeline of skilled trades talent in Northwestern Ontario through a $120,000 investment by Impala Canada. This investment forms the foundation of a unique partnership between the two organizations that will support the College and its students at several points in the postsecondary journey: from the recruitment of bright, young talent to tuition support and on-the-job training.
“Confederation College plays an important role in Northwestern Ontario, educating and preparing individuals for rewarding careers in the skilled trades,” said Tim Hill, CEO, Impala Canada. “A career in a skilled trade provides a solid future, one where students discover their potential and their ability to contribute to the communities they call home. We look forward to partnering with Confederation College to support training pathways for students to help sustain employment and education in the region.”
For the next three academic years, the $120,000 from Impala Canada will enable the College to recruit broadly for its Skilled Trades program as well as remove any unexpected financial barriers that might prevent a student from graduating. The investment will also enable students to visit Impala Canada’s Lac des Iles mine site to understand the opportunities mining presents and will provide apprenticeship and coop opportunities for Confederation College’s Skilled Trades students.
“Supported by Impala Canada’s generous investment, I am excited that Confederation College will be able to intensify its recruitment efforts that seek to attract both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students who may be interested in skilled trades,” said Kathleen Lynch, President of Confederation College. “This partnership will provide opportunities to those who may have not have otherwise been able to pursue their aspirations, while also contributing to the economies that drive northwest Ontario.”