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The Central Okanagan's full spectrum of education - from elementary classrooms to doctoral labs - took center stage Wednesday as regional leaders toured a growing knowledge hub in the Okanagan, anchored by a new $61.3 million Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism and cutting-edge learning spaces, which aims to close critical workforce gaps.
On November 13, the Regional District of Central Okanagan’s (RDCO) Economic Development Commission (EDC), in partnership with Tourism Kelowna and Accelerate Okanagan, hosted elected officials, community partners and economic development staff on a education familiarization tour.
Familiarization tours are a staple in the tourism and hospitality space and provide guests with firsthand experiences, immersing them in regional facilities and services. The OKGo team adapted the concept to have an education focus, providing a platform for elected officials and partners to connect with leaders from School District 23, the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus and Okanagan College. During the tour, participants gained insights into academic updates, strategic priorities and celebrated the successes of community integration efforts that are fueling economic growth in the Central Okanagan.
“It was an incredible privilege to engage with academic leaders, learning about the research, innovation and world-class programming these institutions provide in the Central Okanagan,” said Blair Ireland, Chair of the RDCO Board. "Today’s insights have inspired us, deepening our commitment to a shared vision of a resilient, skilled and diverse regional economy. These institutions serve as the engine behind our regional economy, it is essential to foster an environment that not only attracts and retains top talent but also promotes research, innovation and experiential learning."
Attendees began the day at the RDCO with a welcome from Blair Ireland, Chair of the RDCO Board, an economic update from Krista Mallory, Manager of the EDC, followed by a school district update from Kevin Kaardal, SD 23 Superintendent.
At UBC Okanagan, the group was guided by UBCO Principal Dr. Lesley Cormack, touring UBCO’s Visualization and Emerging Media Studio and taking part in an immersive virtual field trip, an experiential learning tool that uses Canada’s highest-resolution, 3D, VR-ready video wall. Attendees also received an update on new professional learning programs, research aimed at reducing the risk of wildfires and the suite of programs at UBCO designed to support student educational access, engagement and success.
“UBC Okanagan offers students a world-class education and a globally recognized university degree right in their own backyard,” said Dr. Lesley Cormack, Principal of UBC Okanagan. “UBCO creates unique opportunities for students to be part of the innovative solutions of tomorrow through research partnerships and experiential learning opportunities with industry and communities. We take pride in serving as our community’s source for homegrown professionals like doctors, engineers, teachers and nurses while being a key driver of the region’s ability to attract and retain people of great talent and diverse backgrounds.”
The final stop of the day was Okanagan College, guided by Dr. Samantha Lenci, Provost and Vice President Academic. Attendees toured OC’s Kelowna campus, learned about the various skills training programs. They also received an update on the new $61.3 million dollar Centre for Food, Wine, and Tourism, which will be under construction this winter and is expected to open in 2027, with a focus on addressing the labour shortage in tourism and hospitality-related industries.
“Today, the demand by employers for college-educated graduates is at an all-time high. More than 50 per cent of jobs now and for the next decade will require learning that you achieve at a college. This includes programs ranging from aviation mechanics to health care workers, skilled trades, tourism and hospitality, and business accounting to early childhood education – the opportunities are as varied as the individuals pursuing them. Okanagan College is dedicated to cultivating a vibrant regional workforce through partnership and community collaboration,” said Dr. Neil Fassina, President of Okanagan College.
Overall, the day showcased the thriving education ecosystem in the Central Okanagan, providing a platform for key regional institutions, community organizations, and elected officials to connect. It also served as an opportunity to share strategies and emphasize the crucial role these institutions play in education, acting as the backbone for fostering talent and supporting sustainable economic growth.
To learn more about the COEDC and what we do visit www.investkelowna.com.
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