KPU and EllisDon collab to train Cloverdale hospital construction workers

A new partnership between Kwantlen Polytechnic University and EllisDon is creating a pathway for workers building a new hospital and cancer centre in Surrey’s Cloverdale neighbourhood.  

The skills training offered will provide an opportunity for workers to advance in their construction careers. The workers began attending KPU this summer as part of the construction craft worker apprenticeship program.

“Together, we saw an opportunity to support EllisDon’s employees to foster retention, while also giving them the formal education and credentials required to advance their careers into other positions within EllisDon and the sector,” KPU Trades and Technology Dean Laura McDonald wrote in an email statement to The Runner.

“Collaborations with industry partners have great value because workers gain new skills and develop a greater capacity to apply their knowledge. That’s important for not only the success of the worker in their career, but also the success of the company they are a part of — and for the construction industry as a whole.”

McDonald wrote workers will gain a formal skills set and learn how to apply it for day-to-day challenges, as well as recognized credentials and pathways to advancement.

KPU’s construction craft worker program is a nationally designed Red Seal trades program.

“KPU teaches to the curriculum set by SkilledTradesBC,” McDonald wrote. “Students are trained to perform labour activities such as setting up construction sites, operating equipment and tools, and assisting with other duties. Students also learn key job skills like health and safety monitoring and workplace collaboration and communication.”

She also wrote that through this initiative, KPU is investing in the future of B.C. 

“These are promising partnerships that foster connections between higher education and industry. That’s key, given the significant contribution the construction sector is making to B.C.’s economy.”

Given the hospital construction is across the street from the KPU Tech campus, it presents an opportunity for the university to engage directly with the industry.

For KPU students, McDonald wrote having a live construction site nearby provides an opportunity to see first-hand what it means to put theory into practice.

“Students are also able to see how complementary trades work within the same setting and the importance of other skills on the job site, such as communication, time management, and safety.”

McDonald wrote that she looks forward to seeing what the students in the program accomplish in their careers.

“We’re proud to work alongside EllisDon to upskill employees and support the delivery of this major project.”