The new programs include both short micro-credential offerings and full length programs start in February and March, and are offered either fully digital or in ‘blended’ format that mixes digital learning with safe, physically-distanced classroom learning.
“After a very difficult year, this training is about helping students start 2021 by gaining skills that will help them find employment in growing areas of our economy,” said Cheryl O’Connell, Dean of Trades & Technical Programs at NIC.
“Best of all, students can access these programs at no cost, which is very exciting and means that financial barriers won’t get in the way of starting a new career,” O’Connell added.
Funding for these programs is supported by the Province of British Columbia.
The new programs are as follows:
- Fundamentals of GIS Mapping and Drone Operations Micro-credential
Starts Feb 22, 8 weeks; Campbell River-based blended delivery. Tuition-free for qualified applicants.
Students will learn the fundamentals of geographic information system (GIS) mapping and drone operations, with a focus on emerging technologies, data collection methods and more. Students will also receive Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) instruction focused on preparing them for the Basic RPAS pilot license exam. Highly-transferable skills means employment opportunities across various sectors, such as forestry, aquaculture and resource and environmental management.
- Parts and Warehousing Person Foundation Certificate
Starts March 1, 20 weeks; Campbell River-based blended delivery. Tuition-free for qualified applicants.
Students will gain the necessary skills to manage warehouse operations and systems, inventory control, ordering and more. Employment opportunities include work in the automotive, commercial transportation and resource trades.
- Motion Picture Production Assistant Micro-credential
Starts March 1, 12 weeks; digital delivery. Tuition-free for qualified applicants.
Students will gain skills — including communication, protocols and film terminology — plus Motion Picture Industry Orientation, Motion Picture Safety and WHMIS certificates that are required to work in BC’s thriving TV and film industry.
- Motion Picture Craft Services Micro-credential
Starts March 8, 9 weeks; digital delivery. Tuition-free for qualified applicants.
Students will gain skills on the critical role of food and beverage preparation, service and storage on film sets — including communication, protocols and film terminology that are required to work in BC’s thriving TV and film industry.
- Fabricator-Welder Micro-credential combination
Starts March 8, 32 weeks; Port Alberni-based blended delivery. Tuition-free for qualified applicants.
Students will earn Metal Fabricator and Welder Level 1 technical training through four micro-credentials. Course content develops their essential workplace skills and provides them with the opportunity to earn certificates in Occupational First Aid Level 1, WHMIS and Forklift Operation.
Along with the new programs, NIC is also offering two new intakes of a previously offered tuition-free program:
- Wildfire Crew Member Training
Starts March 1, 4 weeks; Campbell River & Port Alberni. Tuition-free for qualified applicants.
Students gain the skills, knowledge and certifications required for entry-level employment as a wildland fire crew
Seats in these new program are limited and interested students are advised to get their applications in quickly.
Visit www.nic.bc.ca/programs for more details.
