Born of the need to expand trades training in the Okanagan, and the opportunity to involve community partners to help make that happen, Okanagan College, The Village of Kettle Valley, and Vintage Design Ltd. have partnered to establish the third Home for Learning in Kelowna.
Supported by the Canadian Home Builders' Association and the National New Home Warranty Program, this innovative project has students in Okanagan College 's Residential Construction Program participating in the actual construction of a home at 5476 South Perimeter Way in the Village of Kettle Valley subdivision of Kelowna, British Columbia.
The students began receiving training on tools and safety in the classroom in January 2007 and moved to the jobsite in April. They have the opportunity to work with an award-winning contractor – Vintage Design Ltd. - and many sub-trades from excavation to completion. Students are not only receiving valuable hands-on training, but also an Okanagan College certificate in Residential Construction and Level One technical credit  towards their carpentry apprenticeship.
Community and industry involvement in the project has been overwhelming. More than 20 companies and organizations have jumped on board as sponsors with many others expressing interest as the project gets underway.
The project is expected to be complete by October 2007 with the net sales proceeds from the sale of the home going toward scholarships bursaries, and new equipment to benefit future trades students at Okanagan College.
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