2 minute read
Rising Demand
Rising Demand
Fanshawe's newly renovated $5 million welding lab is one of the largest welding training facilities in Southwestern Ontario
The old adage says “practice makes perfect.” And for many students enrolled in programs related to skilled trades, having a dedicated space to hone their hands-on training is crucial.
Combine that with the rising demand in the use of its facilities and programs, Fanshawe’s nearly 50-yearold welding lab was in critical need of renovation.
The College recently unveiled its newly upgraded $5 million welding lab, which included renovation and equipment refurbishment, with more than $800,000 provided through the Province of Ontario’s Apprenticeship Capital Grant.
Fanshawe was able to increase the available welding stations from 37 to 70, including 20 welding simulation stations, expanding the footprint of the lab into two rooms. There are also separate instructional areas to enable classes to run simultaneously.
The simulation stations give students a huge advantage, as they are able to practice their skills in a virtual environment without using the vast amount of physical materials that traditional welding stations have.
Guests at the lab’s grand opening event—including London North Centre Member of Parliament Peter Fragiskatos and Member of Provincial Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London, Rob Flack—had the opportunity to test their skills at the simulated welding stations.
“This new welding lab will provide students with life-changing opportunities to get hands-on experience in the industry,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “We need more skilled workers to help grow our economy. By investing in projects like this, our government is helping students get the training they need to start meaningful and lucrative careers.”
This Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario
