Video : Vancouver Community College - Year of Science

The Year of Science is providing a total of $227,800 in funding to raise awareness of the importance of science in B.C. and to generate interest in the many career opportunities in science-related fields across the province, Ida Chong, Minister of Science and Universities, announced today.

The funding will be provided as two grants; one in the amount of $127,800 to the Vancouver Community College (VCC) and $100,000 to the association of Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of B.C. (ASTTBC).

“Both these organizations will help further the Year of Science objective to raise the level of science awareness, and science and technology skills in British Columbia,” said Chong. “With the support of science leaders and educators throughout B.C., our government is promoting increased literacy in science so we will be well-positioned to meet future workforce demands.”

As a major provider of post-secondary training in B.C., VCC is playing a leading and innovative role in addressing future labour market needs in the many sectors of our economy dependent on high level applied and academic science.

“We are pleased that this Year of Science funding will allow us to continue our highly successful speaker series, presenting B.C. and international scientists who have impressed audiences with the wonder, awe and discovery of science,” said Kathy Kinloch, president, Vancouver Community College. “It’s exciting to be able to showcase science and scientists through these events – inspiring British Columbians and helping foster a culture of exploration, research and innovation.”

One of the spring highlights of the speaker series will be Buffy Sainte Marie, Native American international activist pop star, who will provide a perspective of science through Native American Eyes. British Columbians and guest presenters from around the globe will take part in the dialogue via the web.

Also receiving funding is ASTTBC, the professional registration body for 9,500 technologists, technicians and technical specialists in applied science and engineering technologies. ASTTBC will use its funding to work with its network of technology professionals to identify and co-ordinate job shadowing and work experience opportunities in applied science fields. The main centres for placement include Kelowna, Kamloops, Prince George, Prince Rupert, Castlegar, Trail, Nanaimo, Campbell River, Fort St. John and Metro Vancouver.

“B.C. needs more scientists, technologists, technicians and engineers to remain competitive in the global economy,” said John Leech, executive director of the ASTTBC. “With the funding from the Year of Science, ASTTBC will introduce grade 11 and 12 students to a variety of technology fields, to encourage them to pursue science-based careers.”

The Year of Science is in direct response to the need to strengthen and foster a culture of science in British Columbia. Over the next 10 years, approximately one in every eight job openings will be in a science-related occupation.

Learn more at: www.YearofScienceBC.ca

Photo/ Artist: Northline