The transmissions will improve NIC students’ training, qualifications and career outcomes for years to come.
“With several NIC alumni employed at our company we value the quality training NIC provides and we are proud to invest in this opportunity,” said Bailey Western Star General Manager Craig Willett.
The donation also enhances Heavy Duty Apprenticeship students’ learning experiences.
“This significant gift provides students with the opportunity to gain crucial hands-on-training on up-to-date equipment,” said NIC’s Dean of Trades & Technical Programs, Cheryl O’Connell. “To be able to work on a new transmission during their coursework greatly contributes to their employability as they transition in to the workforce.”
The students are already in high demand. The BC 2025 Labour Economic Outlook predicts heavy duty mechanics will be among BC’s most in-demand occupations requiring post-secondary training, with more than 2,800 job openings available to 2025.
There are two ways to enter the program. A Heavy Duty Mechanical Foundation program starts in September and January, while the Heavy Duty Apprenticeship program starts in September. Visit www.nic.bc.ca/trades for more information.
Willett purchased the equipment on behalf of Bailey Western Star Trucks at Taste, the NIC Foundation’s fundraising gala, which raised $20,000 in Campbell River last year.
“We want to thank Craig Willett and Bailey Western Star Trucks for their generous donation and for continuing to hire NIC graduates,” said NIC’s Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Randall Heidt. “I also want to thank all the donors who participated in last year’s gala. We hope to host another event in Campbell River this fall.”
The gala’s top supporters included the BC Salmon Farmers Association, Wahkash Contracting Ltd., CIBC Wood Gundy, Chan Nowosad Boates, CIBC, Campbell River Hyundai, Grieg Seafood, Seymour Pacific Developments Ltd., Mainstream Biological Consulting, Cermaq Canada, Robert Burrows, Bandinotti Net Services Canada Ltd, along with many more donors and sponsors. Carol Baert and David Hone, Glen and Jennifer Hoar and Traci Dolman also donated vehicles to NIC’s Automotive Service Technician students after the event.
The NIC Foundation has been advancing student success, education and community growth through NIC for more than 25 years. It is dedicated to supporting NIC students through scholarships and bursaries, equipping classrooms with current technology and ensuring the best possible learning facilities are accessible on the North Island.
It envisions a future where every student has the opportunity to pursue a post-secondary education, train for a new career or develop employable skills to support themselves and their families. To support the NIC Foundation and make a difference in the lives of post-secondary students, visit foundation.nic.bc.ca, call 250-334-5085 or email foundation@nic.bc.ca.
Media Contact
Christiana Wiens
Media Liaison, North Island College
O. 250-334-5280 | M. 250-218-4097
christiana.wiens@nic.bc.ca
