The BCIT Foundation works with donors in exceptional ways.
On April 25, 2017, the Cmolik Foundation partnered with the BCIT Foundation and the BCIT School of Transportation to create an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experience. Sixty-five grade seven students from Lena Shaw Elementary School in Surrey embarked on a full day of hands-on learning at our Marine Campus in North Vancouver.
Led by Associate Dean Cpt. Philip and his knowledgeable instructors, basic nautical terminology, the NATO alphabet, international flags and pennants, plus advance knot-tying were introduced. Students were also offered a chance to explore topics such as navigation, marine engineering, seamanship, and maritime safety and security.
Lessons took place on state-of-the-art propulsion plant simulators, while some students were taught how to operate a 3D tug boat, solo. Small groups of students teamed up to navigate a larger vessel around an iceberg with the help of their chief mates. “These simulators are like video games and so easy to use,” exclaimed one student.
Lastly, they witnessed a life raft rescue scenario where their very own school Principal fell overboard into the frigid waters of the practice pool and was carried safely to shore.
For some of these Surrey residents, this was their first time crossing over to the North Shore. For others, it was their first time hearing about the courses offered at BCIT.
The goal of this field trip was not only to inspire the next generation of nautical and marine enthusiasts, but also to help them navigate their options for the future.
This field trip was a new addition to the Cmolik Foundation’s successful Expanding Horizons program, which aims to expose grades 5–7 students at a designated inner-city school to a multiplicity of career choices. Past field trips included Peach Arch Hospital, Surrey Fire Training Academy and BCIT Aerospace campus.
Russ and Ellen Cmolik, Co-Chairs of the Cmolik Foundation, have been longtime supporters of BCIT students, supporting a number of graduating awards as well as offering program support.
Russ explains why the Foundation values education above all else:
“By exposing students to new experiences and linking the field trips to future career opportunities, we believe this will inspire a quest for higher learning and continued education. Many of these students will be the first member of their family to attend a post-secondary institution.
It is our Foundation’s belief that every graduating high school student in Canada should have the opportunity to obtain post-secondary training. Our goal is to make this dream a reality for deserving BC students.”
For the BCIT Foundation and our colleagues at the Marine Campus, a day full of interactivity with both Lena Shaw Elementary students and the Cmolik Foundation proves the positive impact of partnering together with members of our community.
Collaborating with our industry partners is always a humbling, yet empowering experience. Being able to work with our donors to develop and inspire future BCIT students is very rewarding.
Now that these students “know the ropes,” we look forward to the day we see them running to class, receiving their diploma, and becoming outstanding, contributing members to society.
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The BCIT Foundation is a registered Canadian charity that secures gifts that support BCIT in creating opportunities and enhancing the educational experience of our students. We maintain relationships with generous donors and industry partners in order to help support:
- Financial assistance such as bursaries, scholarships and awards
- Improvement of equipment and teaching facilities
- Investment in research and technological development
To find out more, or to get involved, give us a call at 604.432.8803 or visit bcit.ca/foundation.