Canada's Government is investing in industrial research and development and technology commercialization in the field of advanced manufacturing at Camosun College.
The Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification made the announcement at Camosun College today, which will advance the college as an important centre of learning and applied research.
"Today's investment will help students, faculty and industry access the essential infrastructure needed to research, develop and bring sophisticated new technologies to market,
" said Minister of State Yelich. "Investments in these areas create high-quality, knowledge-intensive jobs that make our economy more competitive and productive.
"
The new Vancouver Island Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Prototyping (VICAMP) will receive federal funding of $886,500 to renovate existing facilities and install advanced manufacturing and prototyping equipment. VICAMP will help Vancouver Island companies increase productivity and remain competitive in national and international markets by providing advanced manufacturing and prototyping equipment and related applied research, industry liaison and training.
"This investment in the College and its technology development role is timely and much appreciated,
" said Camosun President Dr. Liz Ashton. "The Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Prototyping will expand our ability to serve the region's needs and enable us to continue to enhance the role we play in supporting applied research and economic development.
"
Camosun College, the largest college in British Columbia outside of the Lower Mainland, offers more than 70 diplomas and certificate programs and 300 university transfer courses. Camosun College has two campuses that serve approximately 12,000 learners (8,600 full-time equivalents) registered in degree, diploma and certificate programs and a further 7,400 registrants in courses offered through the continuing education department.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and represents the interests of western Canadians in national decision-making.
For additional information, contact:
Lisa Hutniak
Minister's Office
Western Economic Diversification
Lisa.Hutniak@wd.gc.ca
Susan Haddon
Director, College & Community Relations
Camosun College
Ph: 250-370-4231
Cell: 250-588-9298
email: haddon@camosun.bc.ca
