Assiniboine to deliver new tuition-free welding program

Assiniboine Community College is proud to announce their continued partnership with Conestoga College (Ontario) to deliver another tuition-free welding program at its North Hill Campus in Brandon commencing in July 2021.

"We are proud and excited to continue our partnership with Conestoga to deliver this program which will create opportunities for students to gain skills and knowledge before beginning a career in the trades," said Kevin Poirier, Associate Dean, Trades. "This program supports Assiniboine's commitment to offering quality programs responsive to Manitoba's labour market while meeting industry and community needs," he added.

The program, funded through the Government of Canada Skilled Trades Awareness Readiness (STAR) program, prepares students for in-demand careers while providing a head start for those wishing to work towards a Red Seal in the apprenticeship certification process. As a part of the program, participants will complete hands-on, in-school training for 25 weeks plus an 8-week paid work placement.

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the program will operate with additional safety measures in place on campus to keep students safe.

Selection into the eight-month program will focus on engaging key groups including women, Indigenous peoples, newcomers to Canada, persons with disabilities, and those currently underemployed. There is space for fifteen students. Tuition, textbooks, and personal protective equipment are all covered at no cost to those enrolled in the program.

The program includes an eight-week paid work placement offering students pathways into the labour market upon graduation. Interested candidates must attend a free program information session as part of their admissions process into the program.

Program details, as well as registration for an online upcoming information session, which to be considered for the program prospective students must attend one of the available information sessions, is available online at assiniboine.net/welding-tuitionfree.