Students across the East Kootenay region are already benefiting from major upgrades to learning spaces, technology, and hands-on training opportunities thanks to a transformative partnership between College of the Rockies and Columbia Basin Trust.
Through the Rockies-Trust Initiative, Columbia Basin Trust has committed $2 million over two years to support projects that enhance student experience and expand access to education across the region.
“Columbia Basin Trust’s investment is helping us reimagine what learning looks like for our students,” said Michael Crowe, President of College of the Rockies. “Together, we are creating more inclusive, flexible, and modern environments that support student success and strengthen our communities.”
Projects completed or underway in 2025–26 are already reshaping the student experience:
Students at the Cranbrook campus will soon benefit from newly renovated campus spaces that replace outdated locker banks with bright, comfortable study areas. These spaces are designed to support both independent study and small group collaboration, giving students the flexibility to learn in ways that work best for them.
Classrooms across multiple campuses have been reimagined to support today’s learners. Improvements include:
- Flexible furniture that allows for collaborative and adaptable learning environments
- Advanced technology to support Hyflex course delivery), enabling students to participate in-person or online in real time
- Dedicated Learning Hub spaces that support online learners and dual credit students
These upgrades expand access to education and provide more flexibility for students balancing school, work, and personal commitments.
Students in the Fire Training certificate program are now learning in a fully upgraded training environment at the Gold Creek campus, enjoying building upgrades, specialized equipment, and training props designed to simulate real-world firefighting conditions. The result is a more immersive and effective learning experience, with students reporting strong satisfaction and improved preparedness for careers in emergency services.
Work is also underway on the next phase of the initiative, including the modernization and major upgrade to the College’s dental assisting lab which will provide students with access to current industry-standard equipment while continuing to serve more than 200 community patients annually.
The Rockies-Trust Initiative demonstrates the power of partnership in building stronger communities through education.
“Colleges are vital to the Basin, creating opportunities for people to learn close to home while adapting to the region’s evolving needs,” said Will Nixon, Director, Delivery of Benefits & Special Initiatives, Columbia Basin Trust. “Through our partnership, the Trust supports college-led solutions from student housing to expanded training and programming that reduces barriers and strengthens communities.”
“Columbia Basin Trust’s support is making a meaningful and lasting difference for our students and communities,” Crowe added. “This investment is helping ensure learners across the Basin can access high-quality, relevant education close to home.”
Learn more about College of the Rockies at cotr.bc.ca.
About College of the Rockies
For 50 years, College of the Rockies has provided post-secondary education that meets the needs and aspirations of the people, industries, and businesses of our region. All our campuses are located on the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa people, which is also home to the Kinbasket people. We value our relationships with the four Ktunaxa bands, the Shuswap band, and the Kootenay Regional Office of the Métis Nation, BC. Each year, thousands of full-time and part-time students join us in a full range of programs, including skilled trades, university arts and sciences, adult upgrading, early childhood education, health and human services, business, office administration, tourism, hospitality, recreation, fire services, continuing education, and contract training. Through smaller class sizes, highly personalized instruction and dedicated support services, our students are primed to succeed in the job market, or in the next stage of their academic journey.
Media Contact:
Darryl Dux
Communications Coordinator
College of the Rockies
ddux@cotr.bc.ca