NBCC, with support of Strescon Limited, launches new bursary to reduce barriers for students
New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) has partnered with Strescon Limited and the six Wolastoqey First Nations in New Brunswick to establish the Strescon Wolastoqey First Nations Industrial Trades Bursary Fund.
The new industrial trades fund will make two bursaries, valued at $5,000 each, available in spring 2025 to learners from any of the six Wolastoqey First Nations in New Brunswick enrolled in any of NBCC’s industrial trades programs.
In its media release, NBCC explained the creation of this bursary fund will help to break down barriers to post-secondary education and training in skilled trades, fostering growth in New Brunswick.
“Bursaries play an essential role in reducing barriers to post-secondary education,” said Mary Butler, President and CEO of NBCC. “We are grateful for generous partners, like Strescon, who support our commitment to ensuring that every New Brunswicker has the opportunity to develop the skills necessary for meaningful work.”
Butler said that this gift will allow more learners to experience a transformative education, equipping them with the skills needed to significantly impact their communities and beyond.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation, we are dedicated to creating more opportunities for Indigenous learners to thrive at NBCC,” she said.
Strescon President Hans Klohn said the company appreciates the opportunity to contribute to the enrichment and success of the communities where we work and live.
“Strescon believes that investing in education is one way to create a stronger and more prosperous province,” he said.
Strescon chief executive officer John Irving described the bursary as a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth of the New Brunswick workforce and reconciliation with New Brunswick’s First Nations communities.
“The intent of the bursary is to encourage First Nations students to pursue a career in the industrial trades sector and provide them an opportunity to participate in New Brunswick industries,” he said.
Chief Patricia Bernard of Madawaska Maliseet First Nation said that the six chiefs of the Wolastoqey Nation are very pleased that Strescon responded to their efforts to recognize their rights to their historic lands by engaging in a productive dialogue.
“This bursary, which is the result of those discussions, will help provide education for our community members and more skilled tradespeople who will help contribute to the growth of New Brunswick for all of us,” said Bernard. “Strescon’s commitment to reconciliation and support for our First Nations’ communities has allowed the Wolastoqey Nation to resolve the company’s involvement in our Aboriginal title claim.”
The initiative is part of a long-term commitment from Strescon that will total up to $120,000 and provide educational opportunities for 24 learners over the next 12 years.
The first bursaries will be available to two Wolastoqey First Nation community members enrolled in any of NBCC’s industrial trades programs, such as welding, electrical, plumbing, and more, in the spring of 2025.
Strescon Wolastoqey First Nations Industrial Trades Bursary Fund includes enrolment in any industrial trade program offered by NBCC.
It will be awarded to two students from the six Wolastoqey First Nations in New Brunswick, each for $5,000.
Applications for the first two bursaries will be open in the spring of 2025 for the 2025-2026 semester.
