Future Shop invests in tomorrow's leaders
Wed, September 17 2008
The electronics firm has provided a state-of-the-art computer assisted drafting (CAD) lab in a revitalized space, directly benefitting close to 200 students and staff as well as adult education classes.
“Future Shop is committed to putting resources in the hands of students to help create future leaders,” said Moe Amirie, senior vice-president at Future Shop, on the eve of the donation last Thursday.
“Providing the latest computers and technology in schools allows for invaluable skills training where it’s most needed, and creates new opportunities for Surrey students in this unique high school classroom.”
With over 60 per cent of Q.E. Grade 11 and 12 students enrolled in career programs, the school, classified as an “inner-city school,” faces steadily increasing demand for courses in animation, drafting and design and other vocations.
The new Future Leaders Tech Lab at Q.E. Secondary will allow graduating students to work with the latest CAD software and technologies, and attain relevant technology experience before entering the workforce.
“We’ve been teaching about 100 students each year as well as adult classes, with limited resources,” says Q.E. technology education teacher John Hunter, whose school instructs students from 69 various ethnic backgrounds. “This donation will foster creativity and better prepare students for practical work experience placements and careers.”
In addition to supporting career development, the Future Leaders Tech Lab will foster students’ ability to participate in national competitions.
In 2007, seven Q.E. students competed in the Skills Canada Regional Competition in CAD Mechanical and Architectural Design, with the number expected to increase in the coming year.
“Board members were delighted when we heard of Future Shop’s offer of support for our students,” says Surrey Board of Education chair Reni Masi. “We were asked to identify the best use of funds and provide a list of potential programs. It was clear the company’s motivation with the Future Leaders Tech Lab was to assist students in the best way possible to learn and use technology.”
More education news
