Program Overview

Millwright Program at TRU

The Ministry of Advanced Education has announced its support for the Foundation millwright program at Thompson Rivers University (TRU). This development is a result of years of lobbying for a millwright program at the university. With the necessary approvals in place, the first students are expected to start in August.

Program Overview

The millwright program is a trades program that will be offered at the NorKam Trades and Technology Centre, located at NorKam Secondary. The program will provide students with the skills and knowledge required to install, repair, overhaul, and maintain machinery and heavy mechanical equipment. TRU faculty will provide instruction, and the courses offered will range from pre-apprenticeship Foundation through fourth-year apprentice.

Program Details

• The program is a result of a long-term partnership between TRU and School District 73, which operates the NorKam Trades and Technology Centre.
• The centre has the necessary shop and classroom requirements, along with the tools and equipment needed for the program.
• The program will provide students with the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors and gain hands-on experience in the trade.
• Millwrights are industrial mechanics who work in a variety of settings, including repair shops, plants, construction sites, mines, logging operations, ski hills, and production and manufacturing facilities.

Industry Demand

• Millwright is one of the top-priority trades in British Columbia, and there is a high demand for skilled tradespeople in this field.
• The program will help to address the need for millwrights in the region and provide students with a range of career opportunities.

Additional Support

• The Ministry of Advanced Education has also provided one-time funding for 18 additional seats in the Foundation programs in carpentry, heavy mechanical, and welding at TRU.
• This funding will help to support the growth of trades programs at the university and provide more opportunities for students to pursue a career in the trades.