For immediate release

Advanced Education Minister tries her hand at welding in Kwantlen class

Metro Vancouver, BC – (March 23, 2012) – Kwantlen Polytechnic University hosted Advanced Education Minister Naomi Yamamoto this week as she toured the Trades and Technology campus in Cloverdale. Instructors and students from Kwantlen demonstrated their newly honed industrial welding skills; some of which may be applied to B.C.'s very own blossoming shipbuilding industry. The minister had a hands-on experience cutting a piece of metal with assistance from students.

Kwantlen president and vice-chancellor, John McKendry notes, "In responding to the Jobs B.C. initiative and British Columbia's acute need for skilled workers to replace those who will leave the labour market in the immediate future, and also to meet the rising demand for skilled labour to sustain economic growth and diversification throughout the province, programs like those available at Kwantlen Polytechnic University's Cloverdale Campus will continue to play an essential role. As B.C.'s Polytechnic University this is central to the role given by the province in September 2008 and we are determined to meet government's expectations of us."

"We are about to experience the most rapid growth in demand for skilled workers since the post war boom. Major resource sector growth is striking just as baby boomers are retiring. There are significant career opportunities in the trades." comments Wayne Tebb, Kwantlen dean of trades and technology.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University's Welding program provides students with the necessary training to become proficient welders upon successful completion of all the welding courses in each level. Students will develop the skill and knowledge to work safely and effectively in today's demanding industrial environment.

For individuals who desire a demanding, challenging and well paid career in an industrial field, welding is an excellent choice.

To learn more about Kwantlen's Welding program, contact instructor Al Sumal at al.sumal@kwantlen.ca or visit www.kwantlen.ca/trades/welding

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for more than 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts and science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 17,500 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.

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For more information about Kwantlen, contact:
Joanne Saunders
Director, Marketing and Communications
Tel: 604.599.2243
joanne.saunders@kwantlen.ca