New CAD equipment for Georgian College’s Midland campus

Georgian College students in computer lab on Wed.,, September 26, 2018. (CTV News/KC Colby)

The province is investing $180,000 to expand apprenticeship training at Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology in Midland.

Simcoe North residents can train with the tools they need to land good paying, in-demand careers in the skilled trades, said MPP for Simcoe-North Jill Dunlop

“Ontario’s skilled trades are vital to our economy and offer meaningful and well-paying careers,” said Dunlop.

“By enhancing training capacity and modernizing learning environments, we are helping ensure apprentices gain the hands-on experience they need to succeed. Supporting programs like these not only benefits students but also helps local employers address workforce demands,” said Dunlop.

The funding is part of the government’s annual investment in the Apprenticeship Capital Grant program to improve and modernize equipment and training facilities that support hands-on learning for students and apprentices.

Georgian will be investing in new CAD computers for a computer lab at its Midland campus, along with minor room improvements such as updated electrical and network connections and a new network switch.

These enhancements will modernize the hands‑on learning environment by providing all apprentice students with access to industry‑standard equipment.

This investment will help reduce financial barriers for learners and support approximately 600 apprentices each year by ensuring training environments reflect current industry practices.