Affordable Training for a Changing World
The world of work is changing, and College of the Rockies is helping learners stay ahead of the curve. Whether you want to advance your current career, shift into a new role, or build skills that strengthen your community, short, focused training opportunities are now more accessible than ever.
“Through College’s and Institutes Canada’s (CICan) Upskilling for the Innovation Economy initiative, you can gain in-demand skills at little or no cost,” said Shaun Longstreet, Dean, Innovation in Teaching and Learning. “Short, flexible, and designed to deliver exactly the skills that employers need, micro-credentials are built to fit into busy lives and provide immediate, practical outcomes that lead directly to employment opportunities or career advancement.”
In addition to their regular micro-credential offerings: Activity Assistant, Birth Doula, Electric Vehicle Maintenance Technology, Environmental Water Monitoring, Special Event Planning, and Summit Leadership Series, the College will be offering two new micro-credentials in 2026: Solar PV Systems and Installation and Greenhouse Practices and Operational Fundamentals.
Through six weeks of hands-on learning, Solar PV Systems and Installation will provide training in solar photovoltaic systems, preparing tradespeople and electricians for opportunities in renewable energy while the 60-hour Greenhouse Practices program provides the core skills needed to work in greenhouse environments.
Thanks to funding through the Upskilling for the Innovative Economy initiative, tuition for the first intake of these programs will only be $200 for eligible students.
“Micro-credentials like these reflect the growing importance of the sustainability economy and reflect the College’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” Longstreet added. “By preparing learners for careers in renewable energy, College of the Rockies is helping meet labour market needs while supporting a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future.”
The Solar PV micro-credential begins January 7 while Greenhouse Practices and Operational Fundamentals runs from January 28 to February 20. Both programs have limited seats and funding, so interested participants are encouraged to apply soon.
Learn more at: cotr.bc.ca/microcredentials
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