Features Education & Training Projects & Infrastructure
Humber College invests in the future of skilled trades and technology with expansion project

The demand for apprenticeship and trades training continues to steadily increase, and Humber College has decided to give its students the best learning opportunities possible with the announcement of a $9.5-million expansion of its Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, which is scheduled to begin construction in fall 2021.

As the skilled trades and technology industries advance and become more digitally- and automated-focused, the centre’s expansion will feature simulated worksites for hands-on learning, as well as alternative methods of course delivery to support various learning styles. This includes online learning and the use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in trades such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical, welding, industrial woodworking, and renovation labs.

Courtesy of Humber College/Humber Communications.

The planned 16,620-square-foot addition will allow the college to increase the number of skilled trades training opportunities for learners by 500 students, and add additional trades to Humber’s portfolio in the construction, industrial, and service sectors.

“The expansion of the Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology will provide enhanced training spaces for additional pre-apprenticeship, apprenticeship and post-secondary learners. By investing in this centre, Humber is playing a significant role in addressing the skilled trade shortage in Ontario and demonstrating its commitment to building a strong future skilled workforce,” said Farzad Rayegani, senior dean of the faculty of applied sciences and technology at Humber.

Humber will receive more than $1 million in funding annually for three years from Ontario’s Apprenticeship Capital Grant (ACG) to support the project. Additionally, the college will contribute approximately $2.16 million per year.

“We have the best skilled tradespeople in the world, right here in Ontario,” said Premier Doug Ford. “That is why our government is on a mission to get more people into the trades; we are fully committed to training the next generation of skilled tradespeople.”

The planned expansion is scheduled to be completed over the next three years.