- Boeing invests $17M CAD in
leading aerospace training program
SASKATOON, SK, April 24,
2024 /CNW/ - The Saskatchewan Indian Institute
of Technologies (SIIT) and Boeing (NYSE: BA) today announced a
$17M CAD investment from the company
to advance Indigenous aerospace training and education in
Saskatchewan.
The funds will support SIIT's programs, services and operations
focusing on the expansion of the Saskatoon Aviation Learning Centre
(SALC) to increase training of aircraft maintenance engineers in
the province. With the expansion of this training facility
and program offerings, SIIT is working to address the shortage of
skilled labour in aerospace with talented Indigenous
professionals.
"In 2010, SIIT laid the foundation for what has become a
long-standing partnership with Boeing with their initial support of
the SALC," explained Riel Bellegarde, President and CEO of SIIT.
"Boeing has demonstrated time and again its commitment to workforce
diversification and investment in Indigenous businesses and
institutions. This contribution signifies more than just financial
support; it represents a pathway to empowerment, employment and
economic reconciliation."
Boeing's support for SIIT's initial creation of the SALC laid
the foundation for what has become a long-standing partnership, now
further strengthened by this new $17M
investment.
"With over a century in Canada's aviation industry, Boeing understands
the importance of supporting programs like those offered by SIIT,"
said Pierre Ruel, interim managing
director of Boeing Canada. "We recognize the urgent need to address
the labour shortages impacting our industry. Our partnership with
SIIT will not only support their valuable programs but also ensure
that Indigenous peoples, who are an integral part of our sector's
future workforce, receive the education and training they
need."
Boeing's new investment in SIIT comes as a result of the
Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) stemming from the
Government of Canada's selection
of the P-8A Poseidon as part of the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft
project. Canada's ITB policy
leverages defence procurements to contribute to jobs, innovation
and economic growth across the country.
"Creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous students is
key to building a more inclusive and more just society," said the
Honourable François-Philippe
Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
"Through Canada's Industrial and
Technological Benefits Policy, this partnership between SIIT and
Boeing will provide Indigenous students with the education and
training they need to pursue exciting career opportunities in the
aerospace sector. In addition, this partnership will support
economic growth in a vital and rapidly growing sector of the
Canadian economy."
The partnership between SIIT and Boeing is instrumental in
creating a lasting impact on the educational landscape, fostering
growth, and opening doors to new possibilities for Indigenous
learners.
"Education and meaningful career opportunities lead to a
brighter future," said Maninder
Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Export
Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development.
"Today's investment will provide talented Indigenous youth in
Saskatchewan with the training and
education they need for an exciting career in an industry which is
growing and in great need of their skills."
Boeing
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing
develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense
products and space systems for customers in more than 150
countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the
talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity,
sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is
committed to innovating for the future and living the company's
core values of safety, quality and integrity. Learn more at
www.boeing.com.
Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies
(SIIT)
Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies was
established in 1976 by Saskatchewan First Nations Chiefs
representing all Treaty areas. Today, SIIT remains a First
Nations-governed educational institution – and one of only four
credit-granting post-secondary institutions in the province. SIIT
provides adult learners with academic, vocational, and technical
training, as well as services and supports for employment and
career growth. Indigenous learners are at the core of SIIT,
representing over 95 percent of the student body.
SOURCE Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies