Conestoga’s newest full-time employees were welcomed to the college community ahead of the 2019-20 academic term at an event held at the college’s Doon campus on August 6.
More than 70 new full-time faculty and staff were in attendance as the college prepares to welcome a record number of full-time students this fall. Conestoga is increasingly seen as a destination of choice for students in our community and from around the world.
“We’re on the cusp of being the largest, most comprehensive polytechnic institute in Canada,” said Conestoga President John Tibbits. “The next four to five years will provide the most opportunity for us as we continue to develop programming and campus sites, as well as enhance our services and buildings.”
The college has made substantial investments in both personnel and facilities to address the growing demand for career-ready graduates with the skills and knowledge to serve the workforce needs of local communities. Recent reports indicate that as many as 400,000 jobs currently remain open across Canada as employers struggle to find qualified candidates.
Investments at Conestoga include support for continued growth in Brantford as well as infrastructure upgrades at the Doon, Cambridge and Guelph campuses. The college will also open a new campus in Downtown Kitchener.
Beginning January 2020, Conestoga will deliver business programming for approximately 1,000 students inside Market Square, with additional programming to be introduced in subsequent phases. The new campus will attract more students and talent who will further contribute to the city’s diversity and cultural vibrancy, while supporting Kitchener’s local ecosystem.
“This is our time,” President Tibbits continued. “As we continue to grow, it’s our chance to become one of the most dominant polytechnics in Canada.”
With close to 1,300 full-time employees focused on quality programming and services, Conestoga is a leader in the delivery of career-focused education, responding to changing workforce needs and empowering learners from all backgrounds and circumstances to achieve their highest potential.