New training equipment is coming to TRU to aid in preparing students for the workplace.

The announcement of $160,000 worth of funding for trades and technology equipment was made during Apprenticeship Recognition Week in B.C. that took place from Nov. 4 to 10.

"Investing in equipment is an investment in our students and our communities," said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.

"We're working together to put 21st-century equipment in classrooms and shops to ensure trades students in the Kamloops area and throughout the province are on the pathway to success and gaining the skills industry needs."

Photo Credit: B.C. Government

New training equipment will be vital in the students learning process and preparation as 80% of the leaning is on the job, while 20% is technical learning in the classroom.

Along with purchasing training equipment, the funds will also go to support the purchasing of technology equipment. Previous examples of purchased technology equipment include 3D printers, IPads and solar energy equipment.

"We are committed to providing our students with quality instruction, programming and facilities like our newly opened Industrial Training and Technology Centre," said Christine Bovis-Cnossen, interim president, Thompson River University.

"New, industry-standard equipment is another way we're working to give more students the quality training they need to be part of the growing trades and technology sectors in our region and throughout B.C."

Funds provided to TRU were part of a $3 million investment in 2018-2019 to provide 19 post-secondary institutions with new trades and tech training equipment.

New equipment is anticipated to be in place by April 2019.