|
 Working in Partnership
ATEC is working in collaboration with a number of institutions to offer and certify its programs.
Some of the institutions partnering with ATEC are the University College of the North, Red River College, Assinboine Community College, Winnipeg Technical College, Academy of Learning North and the University of Manitoba. ATEC is also working with the unions, members of the building industry, Apprenticeship Branch, Manitoba Hydro, and Manitoba Advanced Education and Training to achieve its training objectives.
ATEC also works closely with Nisichawayasihk Housing Authority (NHA), Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Human Resource Development Authority (HRDA) and other community-based organizations.
Primary Focus
ATEC’s primary focus continues to be on training and job initiatives for hydro-related projects, but is expanding the scope of its activities to other areas. Business Administration and Basic Electrical are already offered by ATEC and plans are in place to offer Early Childhood Education, Healthcare Aide, Computer Software Applications, Carpentry Level 1, Bachelor of Education and Arts programs.
Funders
The federal government committed $3.26 million towards the project, with additional funding for training provided by Manitoba Hydro and the provincial government, (including Indian Affairs, Northern Development, Western Economic Diversification and Human Resources and Development).
ATEC Staff
Executive director, Ezra Bogle was hired early 2003 and leads a staff of six, including employment coordinator Alvin Yetman, financial comptroller Colleen Hunter, financial clerk Maryann Brightnose, South Indian Lake employment coordinator Wilbur Baker, retention support worker Veronica Buck and receptionist Ella Moose. ATEC will employ about 20 full time staff when fully operational.
Training Program Results
Around 300 NCN Members received training through ATEC in the first three years, since it began offering programs since 2003.
Most are employed in their field of training. They have found jobs as plumbers, carpenters, electricians, labourers and heavy equipment operators, in clerical work and in security.
 Training and Jobs
The ATEC construction project created job training and employment, expected to contribute around $500,000 to the local economy through business and employment opportunities.
On the job training opportunities are available in the areas of concrete, framing, welding, electrical, drywall and mechanical, such as h-vac and plumbing, for example. NCN Members are encouraged to enroll in programs.
Facility Size
The new ATEC facility is approximately 27,000 square feet. It has three classrooms, a science lab, a computer lab, industrial shops including a electrical shop, machine shop, metal shop, welding shop and a woodworking and carpentry area to provide hands-on training for the trades programs.
The centre’s capacity is expected to be about 100 students at a time.
Flexible Use
ATEC is designed for day and night-time activities. For example, the computer lab will be transformed into an Internet café by night, with the use of lighting, window treatments and other features to create a more relaxed environment.
The dormitory’s dining facilities will be open to the community by day and by night become a private area, creating an exclusive personal space for the residents.
High-tech Infrastructure
ATEC offers high-speed Internet and has video conferencing capability.
 Construction Materials
The building is constructed of excellent quality materials, with high-grade flooring; triple-glazed, metal-clad, wood windows for energy efficiency; and full masonry walls for longevity, energy efficiency and ease of maintenance.
There is provision for Lexan windows, which give them durability and added security.
Passive environmental features include the orientation of the building for maximum light exposure during peak-use times. Other mechanical and technical features have been designed for energy efficiency.
One of the most impressive features of the facility is its expansive roof structure with windows that make the most use of natural light, without compromising the security of the building. All public areas have vaulted gable ceilings, offering direct and indirect lighting for maximum comfort in an academic setting. Heavy wood beams, sanded to a beautiful finish, will be exposed in the main foyer, the Internet café and workshop.
Architects
Winnipeg-based Gaboury, Prefontaine, Perry Architects.
Builders
Winnipeg-based, Parkwest Projects Ltd.
Contact the Atoskiwin Training & Employment Centre (ATEC) for more information about training and job opportunities.
Phone: (204) 484-2886
|
