News

IMTARC completes first entry level Ship Repair Program of its kind

Esquimalt, BC., – May 20, 2015 – The Industrial Marine Training and Applied Research Centre (IMTARC), BC's key shipbuilding and repair industry workforce development integrator, today announced the successful completion of its Shipbuilding and Repair Entry Level Training Program (SRELT) with the First Nations Employment Society (FNES). In an industry-first, the course was delivered entirely on site in a shipyard.

Program participants were given instruction in shipbuilding and repair, safety and environmental awareness and employability skills. Students also learned about workplace tools, material identification, storage, ship design and layout as well as dry docking vessels. Several of the aboriginal graduates immediately transitioned directly into employment as a result of the training.

IMTARC partnered with Vancouver-based Meridian Marine to build the onsite training trailer in the shipyard for the students to complete the SRELT program. "Completing the training in a shipyard gave the students the opportunity to really understand the culture of the workplace," said Michelle Traore, IMTARC's Manager of Operations and a course instructor.

Prior to completing the SRELT program, students took the Passport to Shipbuilding and Repair Course with IMTARC to help prepare them for SRELT. Students were given the opportunity to work for a few weeks in the Shipbuilding and Repair industry prior to starting the SRELT program.

Currently, IMTARC is working with Camosun College to deliver the SRELT program in Victoria at the IMTARC facility located adjacent to the Esquimalt Graving Dock.

About IMTARC

The Industrial Marine Training and Applied Research Centre (IMTARC) is a not-for-profit organization that works to enhance productivity and competitiveness in the industrial marine sector in Canada with a focus on workforce development, applied research, and supplier development. SkillSource (formerly known as the RTO) owns and operates IMTARC on behalf of industry that sets the direction and priorities for the Centre. For more information, contact Michelle Traoré at 778-265-5005 or michelle.traore@imtarc.com.