Conestoga College begins operations this fall at its new, larger location in Waterloo -- 108 University Ave. E. This new site will provide a focus for programs associated with technical skills related to the construction industry.
In addition to relocation of several programs previously offered at its Guelph campus (Plumbing, Carpenter General and the highly regarded Women in Skilled Trades - Pre-Apprenticeship Carpentry program), Conestoga will implement two brand-new full-time programs.
One new program is Electrical Technician Co-op Diploma Apprenticeship, which allows participating students the opportunity to earn a technical diploma, complete all three levels of the required in-college apprenticeship curriculum and participate in a paid co-operative education experience in industry as an apprentice.
Participating students are automatically registered as apprentices at the start of the program, sponsored by a consortium of local businesses and industries. This means that students can bypass one of the major stumbling blocks to apprenticeship training - the need to obtain a sponsoring employer in advance of applying for training.
The program will provide a thorough training in electrical skills appropriate to residential, commercial and industrial projects. Analytical and problem-solving skills are emphasized, and students gain entrepreneurship skills as well. Students begin with two 15-week in-college semesters, then proceed to a maximum 71-week co-op period in industry and finally return to Conestoga for an additional two 15-week terms.
Conestoga has pioneered this innovative approach to combining diploma-level, apprenticeship and co-op education, operating successful mechanical technician programs at the Doon campus in Kitchener (general machinist, tool and die/toolmaker) and at the Guelph campus (industrial mechanic - millwright).
The second new program is Renovation Technician, a diploma-level program of four semesters (two years).
Students will gain the knowledge, skills and experience to prepare for a construction-related career in residential and/or light commercial renovations. This involves instruction in construction techniques involving concrete, interior and exterior carpentry, finish carpentry and welding, and processes that reflect both environmental awareness and energy efficiency. In addition, students gain communications, customer relations and project management skills.
In both of these new programs, as in all Conestoga programs in every career area, students gain considerable skills in relevant computer programs and applications essential to the field.
For more details on either of these new programs, or on any other program that will be located at the new Conestoga campus in Waterloo, call 519-748-5220, ext. 3656 (in the Guelph area, call 519-763-9525, ext. 3656).
CONTACT: Abby Redman, 519-748-5220, ext. 2300, aredman@conestogac.on.ca