In recent years, ongoing labour shortages and an increased need for housing have demonstrated that we need skilled workers now more than ever. At Chard, we are proud to announce our latest commitment to trades training – a $100,000 contribution to the BCIT Foundation to support the BCIT Trades and Technology Complex.
Chard’s commitment to supporting trades training dates back across two decades and includes contributions to BCIT and the Camosun Foundation’s TRADEmark of Excellence Campaign. The latter contributed to equipping the school’s Trades Education and Innovation Complex with the most modern tools and technologies available.
In 2021, in partnership with Campbell Construction, Chard spearheaded the creation of the John Scheeren Memorial Award at Camosun. Created in memory of industry veteran and long-time Campbell Construction employee, John Scheeren, contributions to this fund support scholarships and bursaries that assist students in the Trades and Apprenticeship program at Camosun College. Since the creation of this fund, more than $150,000 has been raised – enough to support three scholarships each year. Since 2021, six scholarships have been awarded to students in the Carpentry, Electrical and Plumbing & Pipe Trades programs at Camosun.
Chard’s latest contribution to trades training – a commitment to donate $100,000 to BCIT – will be put towards the continuation and support of BCIT students, education, and research, and will help to ensure that BCIT students develop the skills and experience to excel in a rapidly changing world.
We are proud to do our part to support an ongoing supply of job-ready graduates to the construction and development industry.