NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA COLLEGE
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A transformational $500,000 gift from The Canerector Foundation will help Niagara College address Ontario’s ongoing skills shortage through a scholarship program and mentorship for students in high-demand skilled trades areas.
Starting in September 2025, the Canerector Scholars Program will award scholarships to more than 50 students over five years, helping to bridge the gap for those entering the skilled trades field. The scholarships will provide financial support of $1,000 per college term, plus a $1,000 award upon graduation. In addition to financial aid, the program includes mentorship and leadership development through the Canerector Skilled Trades Dean’s Council which is designed to help students grow both professionally and personally.
“The generous funding from the Canerector Foundation is much needed as the demand for skilled trades, engineering technicians and engineering technologist professionals remains at an all-time high,” said Leo Tiberi, NC’s Dean, Media, Trades, and Technology. “We know first-hand that scholarships are essential in attracting more students to our programs and helping them overcome financial barriers to pursuing exciting careers in industry. This support will enable the College to cultivate a strong and diverse workforce for the future.”
“Skilled trades are a critical contributor to the success of our overall economy,” said Amanda Hawkins, Canerector CEO and Director of the Foundation. “The Canerector Foundation is pleased to support skilled trades education, encouraging students to pursue these rewarding and in-demand careers.”
The scholarship program will benefit students enrolled in the following NC programs:
- Welding Technician (2-year program)
- Carpentry & Renovation (2-year program)
- Motive Power (2-year program)
- Construction Engineering Technology (3-year program)
- Mechanical Engineering Technology (3-year program)
Each scholarship recipient will also have the opportunity to engage in the Canerector Skilled Trades Dean’s Council, launching in Fall 2025. This Council will offer a platform for mentorship, industry engagement, and leadership development, guided by NC faculty and alumni leaders. The Council will also initiate programs such as a Women in Trades & Technology group, a Canerector Speaker Series, and high school recruitment events.
“NC students are the direct beneficiaries of this remarkably generous gift. We are deeply thankful to the Canerector Foundation for its investment in Niagara College students, who are essential to addressing the ongoing shortages in skilled trades,” said Gord Arbeau, NC’s Vice President, Advancement.
In addition to funding scholarships, the Canerector Foundation’s donation aligns with Niagara College’s broader Together campaign—a $50 million initiative that seeks to address skilled trades shortages and support other vital sectors, including healthcare and innovation.
Learn more about the important priorities of the Together campaign by visiting niagaracollege.ca/together.
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