June 16, 2014, 2015 – Summerside, PEI – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Summerside Regional Development Corporation Ltd. (SRDC) is addressing the growing demand for information and communications technology (ICT) sector employees by offering a new pilot program at Three Oaks Senior High School. The Physical Computing Workshop pilot program offers an opportunity for senior high students to engage in hands-on, experimental projects in physical computing, such as 3D printing and robotics.
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA), today announced funding of $25,260 for SRDC to develop and implement the pilot program.
The program ran for an 18-week period as part of the existing computer course offered at Three Oaks. The Workshop helped students explore their interest in ICT as a potential career path. Fundamental skills, such as program solving, engineering, product development, and project management were key learning objectives throughout the course.
Quick Facts:
- The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, provided a $25,260 contribution to SRDC for this project.
- Physical Computing includes bioinformatics, biomechanics, robotics, interactive tech, 3-D printing, mobile devices, and more.
- SRDC is a provincially incorporated organization that focuses on the development of key assets in Summerside and surrounding areas for economic development.
- The Island ICT sector employs over 1,200 people in more than 100 firms, with higher average wages than most other sectors. The industry contributes an estimated $178.6 million to the Island’s GDP and is growing rapidly, creating increasing demand for skilled workers.
Quotes:
“Our Government continues to create jobs and opportunities for Atlantic Canadians, and the Information Communications Technology sector plays a key role in strengthening our region’s economy. We are pleased to support the Physical Computing Workshop pilot initiative, which gives local youth an opportunity to explore the exciting career potential this sector offers.”
- The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
“We were pleased to receive this government support that helped us move forward with a project that essentially helps to build a capable workforce within Summerside’s growing ICT sector. The pilot program was a great opportunity for students to gain new skills and explore their interest in this field.”
- Mr. Arnold Croken, General Manager, Summerside Regional Development Corporation Ltd.
Associated Links:
• Summerside Regional Development Corporation Ltd.
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Rob Moore
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Jana Parker
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-314-0874
Jana.parker@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
