SIAST mobile lab to bring training to province's remote communities

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People living in remote parts of Saskatchewan will soon have access to trades training without having to leave their home communities, thanks to the new Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) mobile training lab.

The $1.6 million training lab, unveiled on Sept. 6 in Prince Albert, is a tractor trailer unit with pop-out sides that transform it into a 1,100 square foot training facility. The lab will be able to accommodate up to a dozen students at a time, offering training in a variety of trades, including electrical, industrial mechanics, machining, pipefitting and steamfitting, plumbing and welding. In addition to the main training unit, the lab also includes two supply trailers that contain training aids, materials and tools.

A number of partners have come on board to help SIAST make the mobile lab a reality, including the Northern Apprenticeship Committee, the Northern Development Board, the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission, AREVA, Cameco, SaskTel, Peel Truck & Trailer Equipment, Lincoln, Praxair and Snap-On Tools.

"The SIAST mobile training lab supports economic growth in Saskatchewan by providing just-in-time training when and where it's needed," said SIAST president and CEO Dr. Bob McCulloch.

"It's an excellent example of public and private sector collaboration-a truly 'industry-driven' initiative."