News

Camosun opens new training centre in Esquimalt

Release date: April 10, 2017

Camosun College has increased its regional presence with the opening of the Camosun Coastal Centre in Esquimalt. Formerly known as IMTARC (Industry Marine Training and Applied Research Centre), the satellite site is located on Songhees Nation Territory near the Esquimalt Graving Dock. The 4,000 square foot training building sits on leased land and was built in 2013.

The facility includes two state-of-the-art classrooms can accommodate up to 40 people each and a 12-station computer lab. At this new location, Camosun plans to: continue the successful programming in coastal and marine-related Contract Training courses already offered by IMTARC; offer customized programs for Indigenous communities; develop new offerings in Continuing Education; and, deliver space rental for external education and industry providers.

“The Camosun Coastal Centreis an opportunity to build on the relationships and customized training programs developed by IMTARC and expand the college’s offerings,” said Wilmshurst. “We expect to grow Camosun’s partnerships with First Nations communities, marine industries, the Department of National Defense, and the City of Esquimalt.”

Formerly owned by SkillSource, a skills training organization based in Langley, BC, IMTARC has provided training focused on industrial marine programs. They have also subletted space to local industry and training organizations, including Camosun.  SkillSource and Camosun began discussions in April 2016 and concluded the deal to transfer the facility in December.

The original construction and outfitting of IMTARC was funded by the federal regional development agency of Western Economic Diversification. Funding was also contributed by industry, including Seaspan Shipyards, BC Ferries, Babcock Canada, Lockheed Martin Canada, and Thales Canada. Camosun will continue to work with the original partners to provide their training and development needs.

The new site will make it possible for Camosun to offer more programs and training opportunities for marine industries, Indigenous trades people, and members of the community. 

Contact:
Geoff Wilmshurst
VP Partnerships, Camosun College
250-370-4681
wilmshurstg@camosun.ca