High school students in the Prince George area interested in pursuing a career in technology will be able to get a head start with a new program.
The Technology Exploration Dual Credit (TekX) program is a collaboration between the College of New Caledonia, UNBC, and School District 57.
The program gives Grade 11 students an introduction to the rapidly growing sector, while earning post-secondary credits.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for high school students to get a taste of what post-secondary education is all about without having to commit to a specific school or program of study,” said SD 57 assistant Superintendent Lee Karpenko.
“Successful participants will be able to continue their studies locally or transfer their credits to other post secondary institutions once they graduate.”
Some of the areas of study include computer hardware, cyber security, 3D printing, and drones.
“Through TekX’s unique experimental learning opportunities, we are taking steps to reimagine how we educate to meet the accelerating demand for highly skilled workers in technology industries,” said UNBC President Dr. Geoff Payne.
“By cultivating curiosity in high school students, UNBC, CNC, and SD57 are opening career pathways for learners and helping meet the need for a sustainable workforce in the North and beyond.”
“When it comes to ensuring graduates are job-ready, hands-on learning can translate into lasting success,” said CNC President Cindy Heitman.
“TekX will help students decide which path they want to pursue at a pivotal point in their education Journey.”
According to the 2023 BC Labour Market Outlook, the tech industry is the second largest industry in growth with 142,400 projected openings over the next 10 years, almost 80,000 of which are expected to be new positions.
“TekX’s expansion across the province will allow more young people to access training that will help them find rewarding careers in the technology sector,” said Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation.
“This is another way BC is making sure we have the skilled people we need to help businesses fill job openings and to keep our economy strong and growing.”
The program will delivered in a cohort model with two offerings each year.
Students will participate in the program in either semester, with 20 spaces available in each intake.
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