Nunavut Arctic College

“The Nunavut Trades Training Centre is open for business,” said the Hon. Daniel Shewchuk, Minister responsible for Nunavut Arctic College. “For the first time in our young history, Nunavut has its own state-of-the-art trades training facility. This new centre of excellence will provide more opportunities for Nunavutmiut to study closer to home in a learning environment reflective of Inuit societal values.”

The Nunavut Trades Training Centre is currently offering Pre-Apprenticeship Electrician, Oil Burner Mechanic, Plumbing, and Trades Access programs. There are presently 33 students enrolled in these programs at the centre.

Shewchuk told MLAs the Government of Nunavut’s commitment to Nunavutmiut is to ensure that the territory’s graduates and apprentices meet the highest standards. “Programs and courses offered will adhere to the national standards of red seal accreditation. Accreditation of our Apprentice-level Plumbing, Oil Burner Mechanic, Housing Maintainer, and Electrician programs is currently underway,” he said. “When the apprentice-level programs begin early next year, we expect approximately 40 more students to enrol."

In all, the trades training centre has a capacity to accommodate 88 more students.

Minister Shewchuk thanked all of the staff, consultants, contractors, and skilled tradespeople who helped make the dream of establishing a trades training centre in Nunavut come true. “Working together, Mr. Speaker, we have accomplished our goal,” he said.

Public invited to official opening

The grand opening of the Nunavut Trades Training Centre will take place in Rankin Inlet on November 16, 2010 at 1:30 in the afternoon. To celebrate the success, all Nunavummiut are welcome to attend the opening event.

“I would like to cordially invite my fellow members and all Nunavutmiut to join us in celebrating this historic milestone for our territory,” Minister Shewchuk said.