Most Red Deer College students are still squeezing the last bit of rest and relaxation out of the summer of 2013. But for approximately 470 pupils in RDC’s trades programs, the bell rang on Monday.
The college has contracted with the apprenticeship and industry training branch of Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education to provide training to 3,036 students across 15 trades this academic year, said Brad Donaldson, RDC’s vice-president, academic.
That’s up from about 2,700 positions in 2012-13.
If this week is any indication, Red Deer College is well on its way to meeting the new target.
“We’re off to a really good start this year,” said Donaldson, noting that 95 per cent of the seats for the 10 trades in the current session are full.
“In fact, our heavy equipment program only has three seats left for the entire year.”
Most of the 15 trades taught at the college are spread over five intakes, with these ranging from about eight to 12 weeks each. Donaldson said interest in the future intakes has been strong.
“We’re at a high flow rate for this point of the year.” That reflects Alberta’s strengthening economy and the growing demand for tradespeople, he said.
The trades for which classes at RDC commenced this week consisted of the parts technician, electrician, heavy equipment technician, instrument technician, locksmith, plumber, sprinkler systems installer, steamfitter-pipefitter, welder and cook programs.
Classes have yet to begin in the case of the water well driller, rig technician, automotive service technician, carpenter and millright programs.
Students in the college’s other certificate, diploma and degree programs will hit the books next Wednesday. However, an orientation for new students will take place the day before that.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com