July 30, 2015 – Winnipeg, Manitoba – Western Economic Diversification Canada
Today, Joyce Bateman, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced a $1.1 million investment for the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) to establish a skills development and training initiative for the print industry in Manitoba. Federal funding will be delivered through the Western Diversification Program.
The Government of Canada’s remains committed to helping Canadians access in-demand jobs with support for skills training. With federal funding, MITT will address skills development and training challenges facing the print industry due to an aging workforce, shortage of skilled workers, rapid changes in technology, and the need for industry-relevant training programs.
This investment will support the purchase of new equipment, including digital technology, to strengthen the skill set of current and future workers to improve the competitiveness of the print industry in Western Canada.
“Our Government remains committed to ensuring that Canadians have the necessary skills and training to fill available jobs so that our economy can continue to grow. By working together, MITT and industry will help companies be more productive and competitive both at home and internationally.”
- Joyce Bateman, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre
“This million dollar contribution from the Government of Canada is of huge benefit to MITT’s current and future Graphic Print Technician students. Not only will our students now work and learn on the most state-of-the-art equipment available, the funding allows MITT to develop, in partnership with industry, new diploma options that will increase their job prospects exponentially.”
- Paul Holden, President and CEO, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT)
“The acquisition of this state-of-the-art equipment ensures that learners are equipped with the skills needed to meet current and future skilled labour demands. A highly skilled workforce gives Manitoba businesses a global competitive advantage and creates opportunities for continued growth in the graphics and print industry in our province.”
- Herb Vielhaber, President, Manitoba Print Industry Association
Lorne Pelletier
Director, Policy, Planning and External Relations
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 204-510-7659
Email: lorne.pelletier@wd-deo.gc.ca
Rae-Lynn Rempel
Manager of Marketing and Communications
Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Telephone: 204-989-6511
Email: Rae-Lynn.Rempel@mitt.ca
WD Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-877-303-3388
Website: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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