Conestoga College News

Conestoga Applauds Research Recognition of Canada's Polytechnics in Federal Budget 2010

2010-03-11T19:21:38Z

As a member of Polytechnics Canada, Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning welcomes the federal government’s recent budget, with its direct recognition of the role that Polytechnics Canada members play in advancing Canadian innovation through applied research and commercialization activities.

]]> Budget 2010 contains several strategic announcements that will advance college and polytechnic research for the benefit of Canadian companies:

Doubling the support for research collaborations between colleges and local firms;
Support and direction for the federal granting councils to accelerate the translation of knowledge into practical applications;
Encouraging federal departments and agencies to adopt and use innovative prototypes from small and medium-sized Canadian businesses;
Continued support for enhancing regional innovation and commercialization through funding for regional economic development agencies;
Direction to the Canada Foundation for Innovation to partner with colleges in an effort to encourage private sector innovation, and
A review of federal funding for research and development to ensure commercialization success and economic development in Canada.

“We are encouraged that the government and the Minister of Industry are sending strong signals to the Canada Foundation for Innovation to include college and polytechnic research needs for infrastructure and equipment to enhance private sector innovation,” said Nobina Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Polytechnics Canada. “This budget makes clear that the research-ready colleges and polytechnics are now integral players in the innovation agenda of this country. Canada is moving beyond theoretical research into supporting industry-driven research that will create the jobs of tomorrow.”

Bob Carley, Conestoga’s Executive Dean of Academic Administration, added, “Along with the other member institutions of Polytechnics Canada, Conestoga is very pleased to see the budgetary support offered by the federal government for applied research and commercialization activities. We see these two activities as a very important part of our institutional mandate, in terms of our commitment to our community.”

Polytechnics Canada is a national alliance of Canada’s leading research-intensive, publicly-funded colleges and institutes of technology. Located in Canada’s key economic regions, the current nine member colleges and institutes of Polytechnics Canada are: British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), SAIT Polytechnic, Olds, Conestoga, Sheridan, Humber, George Brown, Seneca and Algonquin.

CONTACT: Nobina Robinson, Chief Executive Officer, Polytechnics Canada, 613-688-0899, nrobinson@polytechnicscanada.ca

Conestoga Awards Scholarships to Degree Program Students

2010-02-26T16:00:00Z

Twenty-three students in degree programs at Conestoga College are the recipients of more than $30,000 in entrance and academic achievement scholarships provided by a number of College and community donors. Presentation of all these honours took place on February 25.

]]> In addition, a new set of scholarships totaling $12,000 was presented to four outstanding diploma and degree students.

Conestoga's four-year degree programs are built upon an academic base that combines specific technical studies in the degree field, plus appropriate business and business management skills, and liberal studies courses. They are also built on an experiential base that combines theoretical studies with extensive project-based work and periods of co-op education employment.

Conestoga's degree programs are in the areas of architectural management, mechanical systems engineering, teletronics (advanced computer and telecommunication technologies), health informatics management and international business management. Conestoga is also a full partner in a joint Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with McMaster University.

Most of these scholarships have gone to students who are in their first year at Conestoga, but several went to "bridging" students, who have already completed a college diploma or university degree and have gained entry into the first semester of the third year of these four-year baccalaureate programs.

The roster of entrance scholarship winners is as follows. The schools indicated in parentheses are the secondary schools of graduation.

The COM DEV International Entrance Scholarships

Two students in their first year at Conestoga have earned scholarships: Ryan Singh (Waterloo Collegiate Institute) received $1,000 in the Mechanical Systems Engineering program and Nathan Domingo (Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute, Kitchener) won $1,000 in Integrated Telecommunication and Computer Technologies.

The Manulife Health Informatics Management Scholarship

The $1,000 award has gone to Krizia Mae Francisco (Monsignor Doyle Catholic Secondary School, Cambridge), who is a Bachelor of Applied Health Sciences - Health Informatics Management student.

The Manulife Nursing Scholarship

Ashley Pajunen (Grand River Collegiate Institute, Kitchener), a student in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, is the winner of this $1,000 award.

The Melloul Blamey Construction Scholarship

Sardar Ghaderi (Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute, Kitchener) is the winner of this $1,000 award, which goes to a bridging student who enters the third year of the Architecture - Project and Facility Management program with advanced standing.

The Canadian Healthcare Engineering Society (Ontario) Scholarship

Jessica Steckly (St. Mary's High School, Kitchener) is in the Architecture - Project and Facility Management program and has won this $500 award, which goes to a second-year degree program student.

The MTE Consultants Scholarship

Stephanie Klages (Walkerton District Secondary School) is winner of this $500 award, which goes to a student in the third or fourth year of degree studies. She is in the Architecture - Project and Facility Management program.

The International Facility Management Association Scholarships

The IFMA recognizes Conestoga's Architecture - Project and Facility Management program as one of only 13 programs in the world, and the only one in Canada, to meet its degree program standards for the profession. The IFMA Scholarships are based on academic achievement, program involvement, faculty appraisals and student resumes.

Receiving IFMA honours are: Dana Brash (Bayridge Secondary School, Kingston), who is winner of the $1,500 scholarship sponsored by the Canadian chapters of IFMA; Laura Murray (Sacred Heart High School, Walkerton), who is winner of the $4,000 scholarship sponsored by the Corporate Facilities Council of IFMA; and Stephanie Klages (Walkerton District Secondary School), who is winner of the $2,000 scholarship sponsored by IFMA's Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex chapter.

The President's Degree Entrance Scholarships

Sponsored by Conestoga College, there are two of these scholarships for each degree program -- a $1,500 first-place scholarship and a $1,000 second-place scholarship.

In the Architecture - Project and Facility Management program, Erik Collings (Monsignor Doyle Catholic Secondary School, Cambridge) received the $1,500 award and Yumna Nasir (Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary School, Waterloo) the $1,000 award.

In the Mechanical Systems Engineering program, Alyssa Ryzebol (Toronto District Christian High School, Woodbridge) received the $1,500 award and Ryan VanVeen (Listowel District Secondary School) the $1,000 award.

In the Integrated Telecommunication and Computer Technologies program, Neil Murray (Kitchener-Waterloo Collegiate and Vocational School) received the $1,500 award and Radhika Chhibbar (Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary School, Waterloo) the $1,000 award.

In the International Business Management program, Nickolas Goetz (Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute, Kitchener) received the $1,500 award and Amanda Markovich (St. Patrick's Catholic High School, Sarnia) the $1,000 award.

In the Nursing program, Lining Cui (St. Louis Adult Learning Centre, Kitchener) received the $1,500 award and Carrie Grenville (Laura Secord Secondary School, St. Catharines) the $1,000 award.

The Conestoga College Alumni Association Scholarships

These scholarships are sponsored by the Alumni Association and go to outstanding alumni of the College who have chosen to go on to baccalaureate studies at Conestoga as bridging students who enter the third year of a degree program. Winners of these $1,000 awards are Brian Helm (Preston High School, Cambridge) and Alita Jones (Northern Secondary School, Toronto). Helm graduated in 2006 from Conestoga's Business Administration - Materials Management program and then entered the International Business Management program. Jones, a 1999 graduate of Conestoga's Welding Engineering Technician program, is now in the Architecture - Project and Facility Management program.

The Neil Aitchison/Conestoga Students Inc. Scholarships

Sponsored by Conestoga Students Inc., the student association, these $3,000 scholarships honour Neil Aitchison, the first Conestoga diploma program graduate.

Inaugural winners of this honour are: Vanessa Gale (Sop's Arm Central High School, White Bay, N.L.) of the Practical Nursing program at Conestoga; Elycia Martin (Elmira District Secondary School) of Early Childhood Education; Lori-Beth Pentsa (Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary School, Waterloo) of Business Administration - Marketing; and Vanessa Somos (Centennial Collegiate and Vocational Institute, Guelph) of the Nursing degree program.

CONTACT: Dr. Robert Carley, 519-748-5220, ext. 2217, bcarley@conestogac.on.ca

Conestoga Offers New Entrance Scholarships and Residence to Degree Students!

2010-02-25T16:25:00Z

Conestoga College has created exciting new degree opportunities for its current and prospective students. Beginning in Fall 2010, Conestoga is offering new Entrance Scholarships and Guaranteed Residence for Bachelor degree students.

]]> Entrance scholarships ranging from $750 to $2000 will be given to students entering Conestoga’s degree programs, based on the average of your top six Grade 12 U or M grades or equivalent as determined through the Conestoga College admission process.

Entrance Scholarships for Degrees
70 – 74.9%.................$ 750
75 – 84.9%.................$1,000
85 – 89.9%.................$1,500
90%+…………….….....$2,000

Eligibility

full-time student registered in Year 1 of a four-year Conestoga Bachelor degree program*
has obtained a minimum average of 70% in their top six Grade 12 U or M grades or equivalent
demonstrate financial need
have lived in Ontario for at least 12 consecutive months
is a Canadian citizen, Landed Immigrant or Protected Person

*Students in collaborative degree programs (i.e. Bachelor of Science in Nursing with McMaster University) are not eligible for these scholarships, however, you continue to be eligible for Conestoga‘s Entrance Awards and other scholarships. Click on http://www.conestogac.on.ca/financialaid/awards/awards.jsp for details.

*Scholarships for students bridging into degree programs after completion of a diploma or another degree program will be offered a pro-rated amount i.e. 50% if they are entering Year 3. Eligibility will be based on the grades used for admission purposes.

Applying for a Scholarship

Upon confirmation to your degree program, Conestoga College’s Financial Aid and Student Awards Office will automatically send you the Conestoga College Entrance Scholarship for Degree Programs application form. In order to be considered, you must complete and return the Scholarship Application Form by the deadline date of September 21, 2010.

Guaranteed Residence

In addition, Conestoga is guaranteeing lodging in residence for all four years for its degree students. That’s four years of being assured of a room in residence, no waiting list, while you study full-time in our degree programs – guaranteed.

Students in collaborative degree programs (i.e. BScN Nursing with McMaster University) are eligible for guaranteed lodging in residence.

Applicants with children/spouses are however not eligible for residence

Offer of Guaranteed Residence

Students must apply to Residence according to the normal procedures and comply with all deadlines, including fee payments. The Registrar’s Office will provide the Residence a listing of degree program students who qualify for the offer of guaranteed accommodations.

Other Scholarships and Awards

Recipients may also be eligible for other existing scholarships and awards at Conestoga College. Click on www.conestogac.on.ca/financialaid/awards/awards.jsp for details.

So register now and earn your degree at Conestoga!

Conestoga offers Bachelor Degrees in:

Note: Conestoga also offers collaborative degrees with McMaster University - Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Diploma RPN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Click on www.conestogac.on.ca/degrees/index.jsp for more details about Degree Programs.

Questions about scholarships? Contact Lisa Nequest in the Financial Aid Office at 519-748-5220 ext. 3704

Questions about residence? Contact the Residence at 519- 895-2272 and ask for the Residence Life Coordinator at ext 712. Email rlcconestoga@stayrcc.com. For more info click on www.conestogarez.ca.

If you would like a tour of Conestoga, please contact Jason Humphrey at jwhumphrey@conestogac.on.ca or call 519-748-5220 ext 2305.

Kandy Kabobs for Charity

2010-02-25T15:50:05Z

Members from the IAAP (International Association of Administrative Professionals) Student Chapter used Valentine's Day to raise money for a local charity.

]]> This is the second year the chapter has sold kandy kabobs for Valentine's Day but this year they decided the profits would be directed to aid Haiti Earthquake Relief. During their spare time over the last week, Cindy Bradley and Deana Moreau sat in the cafeteria putting the kabobs together. Sales were brisk when students and faculty saw the attractive and yummy kabobs! Response was amazing and the chapter very proudly presented a cheque for $500.00 to Anne Brubacher, Coordinator of Communications of the Mennonite Central Committee, on Thursday, February 11, 2010. They chose MCC because it is a local organization with strong roots in this community. As the faculty adviser, it is very gratifying to work with students who want to "make a difference."

The two-year Office Administration - Legal Assistant Program and Office Administration - Executive provide students with a specialization in administrative procedures and processes in preparation for employment.

For more information, contact Janet Bradley

Carden Street Hub of Activity

2010-02-12T20:00:00Z

The historic steam locomotive that has sat for decades near the downtown bus depot will get a new home this spring on the other side of the rail tracks –but the trick will be getting it there.

]]> Canadian National steam locomotive 6167, which CN donated to Guelph in 1967, has to be relocated to make way for construction of a new transit hub on Carden Street this year.

As part of the area’s makeover, city council approved a deal last week to buy the Greyhound bus depot on Macdonell Street. It will be demolished as part of the construction of a new hub. Bus service will continue at the bus depot until service is relocated to the new transit hub.

After years of discussion about where to shift the old train, a decision has been made to move it to a small, triangular piece of city-owned land abutting Farquhar Street, just east of the Hammill Building.

"The trick is getting it moved,” said Derek McCaughan, the city’s director of operations. “I can’t even conceptualize how to do it."

Together, the locomotive and an attached rectangular unit, which was once used to carry coal and water, weigh 682,950 pounds, he said. “This is a real heavy baby. It’s huge,” he observed.

It’s believed the locomotive’s wheels no longer turn, he said, "so if they don’t lift it, they’ll drag it to where it needs to go."

The city is issuing a request for proposals for expert help to accomplish the task of somehow getting the locomotive from the north side of the CN tracks to the south side, McCaughan said in an interview Friday.

He said it will be moved sometime in April, before work starts on the new transit hub for city buses, intercity buses, VIA trains and GO trains –which could come to Guelph as soon as next year.

The estimated cost of moving it has soared to the $400,000 to $500,000 range, compared with the original estimate of $100,000 to $200,000, McCaughan said. The money will come from the overall budget for building the new transit hub, which will be paid partly out of federal and provincial infrastructure stimulus funds, he said.

It’s hoped that in its new location the train will become “an icon, a focal point” of the new transit hub, said Paul Breadner, chair of the Guelph 6167 Locomotive Restoration Committee.

"She is going to occupy a more prominent position than she does now, and we are very pleased about that," he said.

If the locomotive “has to be lifted, that is going to create quite a significant media event, because as far as I know that hasn’t been done before in this part of Canada,” said Breadner, whose committee was created by city council to fix up the aging locomotive.

Most of the restoration work has happened in the past year or so, since hazardous asbestos was removed from the locomotive. It has been sandblasted, and Conestoga College students at the Guelph campus are fabricating a new outer skin, known as a boiler jacket, he said.

The restoration is being done with a budget of more than $200,000 from the city. The restoration committee has also been raising funds by selling limited edition prints showing the locomotive when it was a tourist train during the 1960s, as well as by selling commemorative buttons, Breadner said.

The committee is hoping the train can be adequately protected with special paint, so that it can be displayed without a “shed-type roof” over top of it, he said. This would allow it to be photographed by train buffs without shadows or supportive beams showing.

Doug Hallett, Guelph Tribune

Conestoga Students Jump for the Cause!

2010-02-05T20:30:00Z

The 29th annual Conestoga Students Inc. Polar Plunge was held on Wednesday February 3rd. While some students have been trying to stay warm this cold season, many took part in this years frigid plunge. Despite the warm temperatures of the previous week, the ponds surface was a foot thick with -8 degree temperatures leading up to the event. Each plunger made the icy walk from the college cafeteria doors (approximately 50 feet) to the pond, and jumped into six feet of water.

]]> Every year Conestoga Student Inc. (the student government) involves different charities for the Polar Plunge, and this years charity of choice was The Canadian Cancer Society, chosen by the C.S.I. student board of directors. 87 registered students raised money for a great cause, while 53 took the plunge. Pledges were collected at the event with over $4,600.00 raised and students are continuing to bring in more donations!

Hundreds of spectators watched the event enjoying the various costumes worn by the jolly jumpers. Conestoga Students Inc. presented cash prizes to Nadir Chaudhry who raised the most money, $1,355, along with Matt Winter, for the best jump and Rachel Ford for best costume.

This event has grown over the years with more spectators and participants. Compared to last years numbers, the registered participants doubled. Conestoga students look forward to this event every year, and the turnout is always positive! Students have their hearts in the right place when coming together for a great cause - the Canadian Cancer Society!

Special Thanks to Brad Kueneman and student volunteers, Matt Bloom, Justin Wingrove, Chris Hering and Mike Mota for all the hard work clearing the ice from the Pond, along with St. Johns Ambulance for assisting, and 91.5 The Beat for supporting the event.

Conestoga Crown Ward Workshop Launches Local Post-Secondary Opportunity Initiative

2010-02-05T15:30:00Z

On February 5, Conestoga College hosted a kick-off event at its Doon campus in Kitchener to encourage youth with Crown Ward status to explore and consider post-secondary educational opportunities. As a follow-up to this launch event, Crown Wards will participate in a series of campus visits to Wilfrid Laurier University, the University of Waterloo, the University of Guelph, and Conestoga's Waterloo and Guelph campuses.

]]> The aim of the February 5, full-day workshop was to help youths explore their values, goals and personal interests, meet new people, hear from college and university students who have been in their shoes, and learn about the many pathways available to both college and university.

Overall, this project is one outcome of the Waterloo-Wellington Crown Ward Education Championship Team, a collaborative venture sponsored by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Child and Youth Services. Education Championship Teams offer mentorship, peer support, motivation and guidance in 14 Ontario communities. Teams include volunteers from local school boards, children's aid societies, post-secondary institutions, community agencies, provincial ministries and Employment Ontario.

Participating in this area's project are Family and Children Services of Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph, the Youth Advisory Board (youth with Crown Ward status), Wilfrid Laurier University, the University of Waterloo, the University of Guelph, Conestoga College, Boards of Education from Waterloo Region and Wellington, Lutherwood Employment Services and Second Chance Employment Counselling.

A Crown Ward is a child who has been made a permanent ward of the province, after all parental/guardian rights have been severed, until another court order is made, such as adoption of legal custody, or the child turns age 18 or marries.

There are approximately 9,500 Crown wards in Ontario and 53 Children's Aid Societies. The Region of Waterloo and Guelph-Wellington combined have approximately 280 youth with Crown Ward status between the ages of 13 and 21.

There are currently 14 Crown Ward Championship teams across Ontario. In their first year alone, the initial four Championship Teams helped about 350 students directly, and many more were helped indirectly through the availability of new training and resource materials.

CONTACT: Bonnie Lipton, 519-748-5220, ext. 2269, blipton@conestogac.on.ca

Conestoga Alumni Directory

2010-01-28T16:50:34Z

Alumni Association and Harris Connect partner on first Conestoga Alumni Directory

The Alumni Association of Conestoga College is conducting a comprehensive update of our Alumni information in partnership with Harris Connect.

]]> As you can imagine, managing records for our 85,000 plus alumni is a challenge and this review enables us to stay in contact with as many graduates as possible. If you haven't already, you may receive both an email and a direct mail invitation from Conestoga/Harris to participate. Later in the information gathering process, you may also receive a reminder phone call.

Inside this one time directory, you’ll find information on alumnus (who have opted to be in the directory), great photos of past and present in a historical College time line, photographs of alumni submitted by those participating in the directory, and more. It’s a great way for you to stay connected.

Please note that your information will only be published if you request that it be included.

Take advantage of this reference tool to network with former classmates and other Conestoga graduates. You can purchase the directory by calling:
Toll Free Number – US Domestic - 800-653-4189. Toll Free - Canadian - 888-671-0038

Cost of the Conestoga Alumni Today Directory:

$69.99 (USD) Soft cover book (plus approximately $9.95 shipping and handling U.S. Post)
$99.99 (USD) Hard cover book (plus approximately $9.95 shipping and handling U.S. Post)
CD-ROM $89.99 (USD) – electronic version of the book in colour (plus approximately $7.95 shipping and handling)

Purchase a combination of both the CD-ROM and the Directory:

$89.99 (USD) for a Soft cover book and CD-ROM together (plus approximately $14.95 shipping and handling)
$99.99 (USD) for a Hard cover book and CD-ROM together (plus approximately $14.95 shipping and handling)

Harris Connect, LLC is a privately owned organization of 700 employees who provide integrated Internet, directory, and research solutions for markets such as higher education and membership and professional organizations. They help thousands of organizations connect with millions of constituents, who then connect with one another. Clients include many colleges and universities in Canada, including Fanshawe, and Sheridan Colleges and Queens, MacMaster and Wilfrid Laurier Universities and nearly every college and university in the US. They have been in business for over 40 years.

Harris Connect, has abided by all applicable privacy legislation and listed only alumni in the directory who have given permission via mail, email or over the telephone. Please see their privacy policy at www.harrisconnect.com/privacy.html

If you have any questions or concerns please contact us at alumni@conestogac.on.ca.

Mortenson Taking Canada By Storm

2010-01-22T15:50:22Z

Three Cups of Tea Author Wows Crowds in Toronto and Vancouver

Excitement is building as Conestoga Students Incorporated prepares to welcome Greg Mortenson to Kitchener-Waterloo on Thursday, January 28th at the Aud. The last of his exclusive Canadian stops, Mortenson has left Toronto and Vancouver audiences begging for more. In Vancouver alone, he signed over 4,000 copies of his book as people waited hours in line to meet him.

]]> His message is compelling and sincere. He is authentic and is changing the world around him. Mortenson’s presentation at the Aud is a special appearance and one not to be missed. From kids to seniors, students to the corporate sector, Mortenson’s visits to Toronto and Vancouver have left people raving about his impact.

Conestoga Students Incorporated, Conestoga College’s student association, is pleased to present Greg Mortenson, author of the acclaimed book "Three Cups of Tea" and his most recent December 2009 release "Stones Into Schools". The event, "Changing Your Community, One Mountain At A Time" will feature Mortenson presenting his incredible journey from struggling on a mountain to changing the world. His message of hope and encouragement will benefit the community and challenge everyone to stand on the frontline for people.

Sheena Sonser, student president of Conestoga Students Inc. hopes people will seize the opportunity to hear Mortenson speak. “We are looking forward to hosting the author and sharing something extraordinary with our community” shared Sonser. “This is one of those times we want to encourage ourselves and this community to look beyond and realize we can change the world!” Funds raised will be directed to student scholarships at Conestoga College and also Mr. Mortenson's charity, the Central Asia Institute for the building of schools.

Tickets are available from the Aud and Centre in the Square box offices by telephone at 1-800-265-8977, on line at www.centre.square.com or in person.

About Conestoga Students Inc.
Conestoga Students Incorporated (CSI) is the student government and voice of over 8,000 full time students at Conestoga College. For more information contact CSI at (519) 748-5131 or www.conestogastudents.com.

About Greg Mortenson
Greg Mortenson is the co-founder (with Dr. Jean Hoerni) and Executive Director of nonprofit Central Asia Institute www.ikat.org. Since a 1993 climb on Pakistan’s K2, he has dedicated his life to promote community-based education and literacy programs, especially for girls, in remote mountain regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Mortenson is also founder of Pennies For Peace www.penniesforpeace.org, co-author of the #1 New York Times best-seller, Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace…One School At A Time www.threecupsoftea.com, and author of Stones into Schools: Promoting Peace with Books, Not Bombs, in Afghanistan and Pakistan www.stonesintoschools.com.

For more information about tickets:
On line at www.centre-square.com
By phone at 1-800-265-8977 or 519-578-1570
In person at Aud Box Office or Centre in the Square Box Office

CONTACT: Christopher Graves
Telephone: (519) 748-5131

Conestoga's own CJIQ continues to grow

2010-01-22T15:05:06Z

Audience figures released in December show that the listenership for Conestoga College’s radio station CJIQ continues to experience phenomenal growth.

]]> Ratings released by BBM – the Bureau of Broadcast Measurement (an independent research organization) show that CJIQ’s total audience grew by over 53 percent. According to BBM, each week 23, 600 listeners tune in to listen to the station.

While the listenership for the station is up across the board, it is especially significant that the station gained listenership in the increasingly competitive Region of Waterloo radio market where average listening hours increased by 35%.

Operating at 88.3 fm, CJIQ serves as a living lab to students in the Broadcast Radio and Journalism Broadcast programs.

CJIQ has the largest coverage area of any college radio station in Canada. Our transmitter and broadcast tower are located outside of Paris, Ontario. We broadcast at a power of 4,000 watts on the assigned FM frequency of 88.3.

CJIQ blankets a geographic area of 7,800 square kilometers. Our broadcast area extends to Mount Forest to the north, Port Dover to the south, Tillsonburg to the west and Milton to the east.

Our mainstream format of New Rock/Alternative Music targets the 18 to 34 year old demographic and is presented Monday through Friday, Weekend programming feature a variety of musical genres including reggae, hip-hop, classical, gospel, and easy listening. CJIQ also presents three multi-cultural programs each weekend: Serbian, Polish and Spanish.

For more information please contact Mike Thurnell, Program Director and Co-ordinator at (519) 748-5220 ext. 3223.

Conestoga to Launch Plumber Pre-Apprenticeship in Waterloo

2010-01-21T19:42:39Z

Governments and employers are focusing on the important economic role and the many opportunities apprenticeship education offers to young Ontarians.

Conestoga College is one of the province's largest and most forward-looking providers of college-based apprenticeship programs. Starting this spring, Conestoga will offer in Waterloo a pre-apprenticeship program that can open a practical path to an important, rewarding skilled trade career.

]]> The tuition-free Plumber Pre-Apprenticeship program is funded by the Government of Ontario.

The program is scheduled to begin on March 22. This daytime program features 32 weeks of on-campus learning, plus eight weeks of work placement experience. Among the areas where students will gain knowledge and skills are plumbing codes, trade documentation, plumbing theory, plumbing-related math, welding, health and safety, employment strategies and workplace communications.

Application for this program is open to those age 16 or older, and no longer a secondary school student. Completion of Grade 12 is preferred, but not mandatory, because academic upgrading assistance will be provided. Note that only 24 enrollment spaces are available in Plumber Pre-Apprenticeship.

All prospective applicants must first attend a two-hour information session. These sessions are free of charge and will take place at the following locations and dates: at the Conestoga campus in Waterloo on January 27 (2 p.m.), February 3 (5 p.m.), February 10 (2 p.m.), February 17 (5 p.m.) and February 24 (2 p.m.); at the Conestoga campus in Guelph on February 8 (5 p.m.) and February 22 (2 p.m.).

For details on this initiative and on the information session, call these telephone numbers: in Waterloo Region, 519-885-0300, ext. 5484; in Guelph and area, 519-824-9390, ext. 136. Or send an email to kgoetz@conestogac.on.ca.

CONTACT: Kristen Goetz, 519-885-0300, ext. 5484, kgoetz@conestogac.on.ca

Conestoga student getting international recognition

2010-01-14T17:55:56Z

A car horn blares and instantaneously 28 auto technicians hunch over their workstations. They’re on the clock.

]]> Key information for the task head is attached to a clipboard. The mechanics skim through the pages and prepare to diagnose the mechanical issue.

The technicians have three hours to beat the clock – and each other.

After a few minutes, many of them turn and hold up their work sheets to a supervisor to ask a question. There’s a lot of pointing and hand gesturing, and an obvious language barrier. It’s just one of the obstacles competitors face during an international competition.

This isn’t the Olympics though – it’s WorldSkills 2009.

WorldSkills is held every two years andfeatures competitors aged 17 to 22 from all over the world competing in 45 different skilled trade and technology categories such as carpentry, IT network support, mobile robotics, bricklaying, and cooking.

The 40th edition of WorldSkills was recently hosted in Calgary. It’s only the second time in the history of the competition that Canada has hosted the international event.

In total, more than 900 youths competed in WorldSkills 2009, as about 150,000 people passed through the grounds to watch the competitors in action.

One of the skill categories is Automotive Technology, which featured 28 auto technicians from 28 different countries.

For the auto competition, the technicians work their way through seven different stages during four days of competition.

“Competitors get three hours at each station, but a big part of it is procedure, procedure, procedure. It’s not necessarily about speed,” explains Gilbert Renaud, skills ambassador for Automobile Technologies.

The competition is broken up into seven stages: petrol engine management, steering and suspension, electrical systems, engine mechanical, braking system, diesel fuel system, and transmissions.

Each stage starts with a safety orientation of the workspace and then the competitors get 15 minutes to become familiarized with the work area. Then they have to diagnose the problem and fix it. Each competitor supplied his own tools.

You might think that there would be some home field advantage for the technicians from Canada and the U.S. working on North American cars, but that wasn’t necessarily the case in Calgary.

“The Ford Focus is essentially a German car, so the system is in Europe,” notes Renaud. “And then there’s the diesel system stage, which isn’t widely used in cars over here.”

Chad McConnell knows exactly what the competitors are going through. He’s currently working as a heavy-duty technician for Finning CAT in Edmonton. But he was the Canada Skills national champion in 1999, and went on to compete in WorldSkills 2001 in Seoul, South Korea.

“It was awesome and overwhelming. It was an incredible experience,” says McConnell. “A guy my size will never win the 100-metre dash, so this is the closest to the Olympics I’ll ever be in. It’s something you do for a living and you get to show off and brag a bit."

For the actual competition, McConnell finished 14th out of 26 competitors, but it was a close race as only 25 points separated 9th and 16th place. Still, there’s more to WorldSkills than the competition.

“It was a big cultural experience,” adds McConnell. “We did quite a few team meetings in Montreal before going over to South Korea, and I also went to South Korea in 2000 as part of a Pacific Rim Youth Conference to get prepared for the food and culture.”

The chance to meet and talk shop with other young mechanics from around the world is also a tremendous experience, says McConnell.

The Alberta government is likely hoping the experience of the WorldSkills rubs off on some of the 150,000 attendees who took in the event.

To help host the event, the province invested $24 million, which was nearly half of the operating budget. High school children from all over the province started classes a week early just so they could be organized to attend WorldSkills.

Part of the money provided by the province was used to purchase equipment needed by the competitors to perform during the competition. Following the event, the equipment and tools were donated to publicly funded high schools that offer career and technology studies.

McConnell knows firsthand a career in trades provides good life experience. He has five tickets under his belt and all have served him well.

“It’s good to see young students in trades. I made a good living and will for a while,” says McConnell. “Even if you get into a trade and don’t stick with it, it’s good experience. I’ll never forget how to change a tire, or do an oil change. It’s good life experience and beneficial for everybody.”

As far as life experience goes, it doesn’t get much better than Ireland’s Colm Corcoran’s time at WorldSkills 2009. Corcoran won the gold medal in Automobile Technology, barely holding off Jack Frederick of the U.S. who finished 14 points off the lead.

Kim Yong Chan of Korea won the bronze medal, while Canada’s Dan Van Holst finished in fifth place.

The top score any competitor in the WorldSkills competition can achieve is 1,000 points. In the Automobile Technology competition less than 100 points separated the gold medal winner from the 25th place finisher.

As Renaud sums it up: “Like the Olympics, win or lose, they’re all winners. These guys are all champions.”

Author: Steve Macleod

Publication: Canadian Technician, October 2009 Edition

Streamlined Research Ethics Process Announced

2010-01-13T17:25:25Z

Conestoga College ITAL's Research Ethics Board is pleased to announce two new processes designed to facilitate the ethics review of proposed research projects.

]]> First, Conestoga has joined with McMaster University and Mohawk College to create a coordinated review (MMC-CR) for health sciences research that involves participants at two or more of these institutions.

Second, if researchers who wish to conduct research at the College have already received ethics approval from another REB, they no longer need to complete the CCITAL REB application form. Instead, all documents that were submitted to and approved by another REB may be submitted for review by the College's REB.

If you would like further information about either of these new processes or about any other aspect of research ethics, please contact Jane McDonald, Chair, CCITAL Research Ethics Board, at extension 3912 or jmcdonald@conestogac.on.ca or visit the REB.

For information about Applied Research, please contact Angela Vuk, Director of Applied Research, at extension 2267 or avuk@conestogac.on.ca or visit the Office of Applied Research.

Public Information Events Highlight January at Conestoga

2010-01-07T21:11:02Z

In Ontario and across Canada, colleges have seen unprecedented growth this past year in enrolments and in learning opportunities. This January, Conestoga offers members of the public three ways to discover the value of a college education.

]]> On Monday, January 18, the campus in Guelph hosts a free tour. The campus is at 460 Speedvale Ave. W., and specializes in motive power trades programs (automotive, truck and coach, heavy equipment) and industrial trades programs (welding, millwright, industrial maintenance). The Guelph campus also offers business programs, as well as academic skills upgrading. The tour starts at 5 p.m. and lasts approximately 90 minutes.

On Tuesday, January 19, the campus in Waterloo hosts a free tour. Located at 108 University Ave. E., the campus specializes in culinary/hospitality programs (hospitality management, event management, chef training, hotel and restaurant careers) and in construction trades programs (building and renovation, carpentry, masonry, electrical). The campus also offers academic skills upgrading. The tour starts at 5 p.m. and lasts approximately 90 minutes.

The tours at both sites provide the opportunity to see facilities and speak with faculty members and college service providers.

On Thursday, January 21, Conestoga joins with five other colleges to present an information fair dedicated to degree and postgraduate programs at the participating institutions. Four-year college degree programs are highly regarded for their real-world, problem-solving approach, combined with practical, co-op work experience. The postgraduate program area is booming, as more individuals at all stages of their careers return to college for specialized skill development.

The postgraduate/degree program information fair will take place from 5-7 p.m. on January 21, in the E Wing foyer at Conestoga's Doon campus, 299 Doon Valley Dr. in Kitchener. Along with Conestoga, the other participating colleges are Fanshawe (London), Lambton (Sarnia), Mohawk (Hamilton), Niagara (Welland/St. Catharines) and St. Clair (Windsor).

Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning contributes significantly to community prosperity and produces graduates that are highly regarded and respected.

Each year, Conestoga graduates more than 3,000 new professionals from more than 250 programs in engineering technology, business and hospitality, information technology, health and life sciences, community services, media and design, communications and liberal studies, and skilled trades. For the past three years, Conestoga has achieved the highest graduate employment rate of any Ontario public college or institute.

CONTACT: Paul Osborne, 519-748-5220, ext. 3419, posborne@conestogac.on.ca

Restaurant a smoking success

2010-01-07T18:28:59Z

One man’s passion for southern-style barbecue, and a few of his daughters’ college projects, has resulted in a succulent success story.

]]> Hog Tails Bar B Que at 645 Laurelwood Dr. in Waterloo, a new restaurant/takeout spot and catering business featuring a commercial smoker, had its grand opening on Nov. 28.

At the event, the Corrigan family served up the juicy treats of a long journey that started when father, Chris “The General” Corrigan, bought his first smoker in Houston.

“When we start talking about it we realize how complicated and long it has been,” said oldest daughter, Shannon Corrigan, a Conestoga graduate. “We all think it happened so quickly, from being a dream to being a restaurant, but then we talk about it and it’s like, ‘Oh my god, this has been 25 years in the making.’”

For years, The General travelled throughout the southern United States on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle checking out the local barbecue and juke joints that now hang in the picture frames around his own restaurant.

When he returned north of the border he brought the southern flare of slowly smoked meat with him and shared it with his family, which includes his wife Cathy and three kids, as well as friends.

“It went from family and friends to people we didn’t even know contacting us for catering,” recalls Shannon.

“As soon as we got that smoker it was like, OK, now we have to do something with it,” said Caitlin Corrigan, a second-year business administration management student at Conestoga.

The recipe tinkering and family cookouts changed from hobby to business when Chris sold the family’s office supply store and went into the catering business full-time with his wife. He started entering competitions and faring well against the big boys from the barbecue hot spots in the U.S. These days, his ribs always place in the top 5 at an invite-only competition.

“He proved to himself he could do it ... he is a chef at heart without the papers,” said Shannon.

Hog Tails Bar B Que evolved within the Corrigan family from backyard family fun, to a family-run catering business. But the eatery was created from a second-year food and beverage project that had Shannon devise a plan to open Hog Tails Bar B Que as a restaurant.

Caitlin’s project at Conestoga created the grand opening celebration.

Shannon still has the one-inch thick report featuring the motorcycle riding hog logo on the front cover that can now be seen on the business’s signage, menus and catering vehicles.

“I remember showing it to him and he read it with a tear in his eye, you know, because it was really hitting home for him,” said Shannon.

“It was exactly what he wanted,” added Caitlin.

And it may be exactly what Waterloo food lovers have been looking for.

“Our ribs are huge. They are two-and-a-half pounds and less than $25 for a whole meal,” said Shannon. The restaurant’s theme is “blues, bikes and barbecue,” but the backbone is tender pulled pork, chicken and brisket.

It isn’t just the size of the portions, but the slow-smoked method of cooking that has earned Hog Tails Bar B Que regular customers already.

“We smell like smoke all the time,” laughed Caitlin. “But it tastes so much better than just grilling.”

Twenty-five years later, Hog Tails Bar B Que is the result of a family sharing a passion and working together to turn a dream into a reality. With the help of a couple of projects completed here at Conestoga by the Corrigan girls, that reality is turning into a success.

“Conestoga helped me so much. Everything I’ve learned I used to help open the restaurant. I will tell anyone until my dying day, if you follow through with what you are going to school for, it will pay off,” said Shannon. “I can’t even tell you how much my program has paid off.”

By Greg Cowan

Conestoga Design Students Snag Top Pearson Airport Prize

2009-12-23T22:51:48Z

When six Conestoga College Graphic Design students recently took home first place in a contest, the $3,000 cash award was merely a bonus.

Exposure was the real prize.

]]> Eleven teams squared off to develop relevant ad campaigns to introduce the sponsors of the contest, Logikor Inc., to a larger audience - via a 65-foot banner in Terminal 1 of Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

Prior to embarking on the project, Logikor, a Cambridge-based logistics company, decided to seek local student talent to assist in the production of a compelling campaign. Conestoga College was the natural choice. Students worked in teams to bring the concepts to visualization with design briefs presented to a selection panel.

Logikor President, Darryl King, was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the student presentations and the support and enthusiasm of faculty. "The results certainly surpassed my expectations," said King. "The caliber of both concept and execution were top-notch. Students and faculty were equally devoted to the project. I am confident the results will speak for themselves."

Members of design team were:

Thientam Bach, Kitchener
Katie Griffiths, St Catherines
Melanie Miller, Baden
Veronica Mousseau, Waterloo
Brandon Radic, Kitchener
Brittany Simmins, Guelph

The winning team's design will be viewed by approximately five million passengers in the Great Hall of Toronto’s Pearson International Airport for a period of eight to ten weeks - including the coveted holiday season. In addition to the banner, a 60-second loop advertisement will appear on the CBC News Express throughout Terminals 1 and 2.

The Graphic Design Program of Conestoga College will also receive a $2,000 gift from Logikor acknowledging the department’s contribution to the project. The student-designed banner is currently positioned in Terminal 1 and will be on display until early in the new year.

Conestoga's Advanced Diploma in Graphic Design is an internationally recognized, three-year program preparing graduates to meet the demands of the workplace. Our project-based curriculum is delivered in an experiential learning environment with dedicated labs and full-time faculty to provide students the opportunity to develop higher levels of creativity and innovative methodologies. With consistently high job placement and employer satisfaction, Conestoga's Graphic Design program continues to prepare energetic and highly skilled graphic designers for Ontario, Canada, and the world.

Logikor Inc. services Fortune 500 clients located across the globe in all major industries including the automotive, defense, retail, and pharmaceutical sectors. Logikor offers a multitude of flexible solutions; dedicated transportation, cross-docking, warehousing, expediting, intermodal, LTL, sequencing, consulting, design, and transportation management.

For further information contact:

Craig Maw,
General Manager
519-622-8400 ext. 223
cmaw@logikor.com
Visit Logikor online at www.logikor.com

APICS and Conestoga Team Up

2009-12-11T16:23:33Z

APICS The Association for Operations Management and Conestoga College have announced the launch of a new computer-based test centre for students pursuing professional APICS certifications in operations and supply chain management. The new format allows for instant and secure results - rather than paper-based exams which require four to six weeks for results. Students also receive instant feedback showing diagnostics for each subject area tested.

]]> The College, in partnership with the APICS Ontario Grand Valley chapter, has served as a learning and test centre since 1990 for students and professionals working towards APICS certifications. The opening of the new computer-based test centre for the APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) examinations further strengthens this long-standing partnership.

The computer-based test centre will be open monthly on the 1st and 3rd Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. The School of Business & Hospitality of Conestoga College in conjunction with Pearson VUE will administer the exams. Candidates are asked to follow regular steps in registering for an APICS exam, and select Conestoga College as the test site from the list offered by Pearson VUE.

"We are pleased to offer computer-based testing for the APICS CPIM exams in partnership with Conestoga College," said APICS Ontario Grand Valley Chapter president Tony Marchesich, "This new testing method will make APICS certifications accessible to more people in Ontario." Conestoga College is the first Ontario community college to offer this form of public testing service, and is the only APICS computer-based examination centre between Toronto and Detroit. For further information on APICS computer-based testing at Conestoga College, please contact APICS Chapter President, Mr. Tony Marchesich, or visit www.apicsogv.org."

For more information on APICS courses offered at Conestoga College please take a look at our Continuing Education catalogue.

About APICS The Association for Operations Management

APICS The Association for Operations Management is the global leader and premier source of the body of knowledge in operations management, including production, inventory, supply chain, materials management, purchasing, and logistics. Since 1957, individuals and companies have relied on APICS for its superior training, internationally recognized certifications, comprehensive resources, and worldwide network of accomplished industry professionals. For more information, visit www.apics.org.

About Pearson VUE

Pearson VUE is the global leader in electronic testing, providing a full suite of services from test development to data management, with centres in North America, the United Kingdom, India, Japan, and China. For more information, visit www.pearsonvue.com.

Canadian Forces Offers Tuition Subsidy Opportunity at Conestoga College

2009-12-10T16:16:11Z

Students in two Conestoga College engineering technology programs have the opportunity to apply for a tuition subsidy offered by the Canadian Forces now and additional programs will soon be eligible for this tuition subsidy in the areas of Health and Automotive trades.

Application for the subsidy is currently open to students entering the first year of the diploma program in Electronics Engineering Technician and those entering the second year of the diploma program in Electronics Engineering Technology - Telecommunications Systems. Both programs are at the Doon campus in Kitchener. Additional programs are being evaluated and may soon be eligible.

The Canadian Forces initiative is known as NCM SEP, which stands for Non-Commissioned Member Subsidized Education Plan. In NCM SEP, students accepted under the initiative receive a salary, as well as reimbursement for all tuition, books and academic equipment. The salary is $31,020 in the first year and $37,932 in the second year.

Following graduation, these students must undertake military service for three or four years. Completion of the Conestoga programs ties into three professional options offered by the Canadian Forces: electronic-optronic technician, aerospace telecommunications and information systems technician, and land communications and information systems technician. Automotive Mechanic and Paramedic are also potential programs for the tuition subsidy.

Potential candidates for the NCM SEP opportunity at Conestoga should contact either Sgt. Patrick Marceau or Sgt. Karen Levert at the Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre in Kitchener for more details - 519-569-8911, ext. 225 or 232.

CONTACT: Mike Diamond, Conestoga College, 519-748-5220, ext. 3370

Lift Truck Training...

2009-12-07T21:11:44Z

At Conestoga College, we are "striving to educate our students to promote a safer, more productive workforce", says instructor John Yemen. Safety and productivity are key to a successful workforce; however an added dimension in today’s difficult job market is recognition that safety training also increases one’s employability.

Case in point is student David Wry, who sought to make himself more employable by taking a Lift Truck Continuing Education course at Conestoga College. David took his training in June 2009 while job hunting. Having added the Lift Truck training certification with Conestoga to his qualifications, David was fortunate enough to land a job in September 2009 with an employer who was requiring this very certification.

David commented that the training was “very thorough and well explained”. Other students have echoed this positive praise for Conestoga’s lift truck training, further adding that the training was “very educational for someone who has never operated a lift truck” and that the “safety involved was an eye opener”.

Students have commented on how approachable instructors are, and that when practical evaluations are performed with the vehicle, they are “made to feel relaxed and not pressured”. Instructor Mike Nowakowski states that “most of the students that take our Lift Truck course are trying to upgrade their skills in order to compete for a job in tough economic times. Conestoga courses provide ‘options’ for the job market for these students.”

Following on this theme of increasing one’s employability, Conestoga College has provided lift truck training to a number of ‘job action centres’ in the region, which are set up to seek not only jobs but also skills training for their members. From the first waves of significant layoffs early in 2008, to the present, Conestoga has been a community resource for skills training for those seeking reentry to the workforce.

Rounding out the offerings of Continuing Education courses for the public and job skills training, Conestoga has offered both on-site and off-site training for corporate clients, from regular recertification of employees to more extensive train-the-trainer courses.

Conestoga College is well supported by the community, and in particular for the lift truck training courses, we have received excellent service and support from Provincial Lift Truck. This fall, Provincial showed outstanding support to our lift truck training with the donation of a reconditioned Nissan lift truck (pictured on the cover). We would very much like to thank Provincial for this substantial and generous support for community training.

If you would like further information, or to arrange for customized, scheduled, on-site or off-site lift truck (or other safety) training for your business, please contact Daniel Styrpe at 519-748-5220 extension 3722.

Conestoga Public Relations Students Aid Local Alzheimer Society Initiative

2009-12-07T20:28:30Z

Students from the Public Relations program of Conestoga College have developed their skills and expressed their community spirit by working with the Alzheimer Society of Kitchener-Waterloo in developing a new initiative to mark the society's 25th anniversary. The students' creative ideas and writing have helped the charity launch its first-ever Christmas direct mail fundraising appeal.

Professor Paula Barrett says, "I approached the Alzheimer Society in September with a proposal: the PR students would write a direct mail fundraising piece as a class assignment, and the charity would donate its time by visiting the classroom and guiding students on a real-world project."

Twenty-three students submitted projects, which were then short-listed to the top five and presented to the Alzheimer Society for review. The proposal selected - called Light the Way - is the work of second-year student Nicole Hamilton of London. Hamilton developed the creative concept, selected the campaign name, and produced all the writing and graphics involved. The campaign, cited for its creativity and simplicity, will begin in about a week.

The aim is to seek new avenues for the fundraising activities so important to the society and its clients.

Alzheimer Society Development Coordinator Debra McGonegal comments, "This year we're celebrating our 25th anniversary, so we wanted a positive appeal with a focus on hope. I was truly inspired by the creativity and thought that went into the students' submissions."

More information about the local Alzheimer Society can be found at www.alzheimerkw.com.

As for Nicole Hamilton, she now has a real-life project to display in her professional portfolio. Hamilton is a graduate of London's Catholic Central High School and also holds a bachelor's degree in Mass Communications from Ottawa's Carleton University. She is scheduled to complete her Conestoga studies in the spring of 2010.

"I feel so fortunate to have been given this chance to not only build my portfolio, but to create something for a charity that does so much for this community," she says.

Conestoga's Public Relations program is a two-year diploma-level program at the Doon campus in Kitchener. Its focus is on strategic and creative communications strategies to address organizational goals and issues, and to advance business opportunities with key publics. Among the areas of study in the program are media relations, print design and production, research, strategic communications planning, issues management, values and ethics, and public relations consulting.

CONTACT: Paula Barrett at Conestoga College, 519-748-5220, ext. 3795; Julie Wheeler, Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of Kitchener-Waterloo, 519-742-1422, executive@alzheimerkw.com