College of the Rockies and Columbia Basin Trust are working together to improve learning experiences for students across the East Kootenay.
Columbia Basin Trust is investing $2 million over two years through the Rockies-Trust Initiative to upgrade campuses, improve training, and make education more accessible.
Michael Crowe, President of College of the Rockies said projects supported by the initiative will enhance student experience.
“Columbia Basin Trust’s investment is helping us reimagine what learning looks like for our students. Together, we are creating more inclusive, flexible, and modern environments that support student success and strengthen our communities.” said Crowe.
Some improvements from the initiative have already been completed or are currently underway. Classrooms across campuses have undergone updates adding adaptable, flexible furniture, better technology for in-person and online learning, and dedicated Learning Hub spaces.
Students will soon have access to new study spaces at the Cranbrook campus, designed for independent study or student collaboration.
The Fire Training certificate program at the Gold Creek campus has students training in an upgraded environment with new specialized equipment, improved facilities, and realistic training props that simulate real firefighting conditions. The new immersive learning experience will better prepare students for emergency service careers.
The next stage of the initiative is plans to modernize the College’s dental assisting lab. The upgrades will give students access to current industry standard equipment while continuing service for over 200 community patients each year.
Crowe said the investment is creating more modern, flexible, inclusive learning spaces that help students succeed, and expanding access to education.
“Columbia Basin Trust’s support is making a meaningful and lasting difference for our students and communities. This investment is helping ensure learners across the Basin can access high-quality, relevant education close to home.” said Crowe.
Will Nixon, Director, Delivery of Benefits & Special Initiatives at Columbia Basin Trust said the partnership is reducing barriers and strengthening communities across the region.
“Colleges are vital to the Basin, creating opportunities for people to learn close to home while adapting to the region’s evolving needs. Through our partnership, the Trust supports college-led solutions from student housing to expanded training and programming that reduces barriers and strengthens communities.” said Nixon.
The Rockies-Trust Initiative proves that partnership is critical in building stronger communities through education.
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