Submitted by Daniel Liao, Dean, Faculty of Technology and Trades
SLC’s School of Skilled Trades Hosts a Successful “Super” Program Advisory Committee Meeting
On June 13th, SLC’s School of Skilled Trades made history by hosting a “Super” Program Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting in the Innovation Hub on the Kingston campus. The event was a first for the college and a resounding success, with close to 100 community members and industry leaders in attendance.
The agenda was packed with important and timely updates on SLC’s Technology and Trades programs. Following these updates, area PACs broke out into specialized groups to apply their unique perspectives to their respective program areas.
Maher Ghalayini, Senior VP of Academics, expressed gratitude for the PAC teams' commitments, stating, "The PACs ensure that our graduates meet industry needs and that our faculty have the necessary curriculum. Their participation and collaboration are invaluable to the college."
Daniel Liao, Dean, Faculty of Technology and Trades shared news about new programs in development, highlighting the geographical reach and diversity of the attendees. Participants traveled from Brockville, Cornwall, north of Perth, and the south end of Ottawa/Orleans, underscoring the representation and engagement from across Eastern Ontario. Notably, almost half of the attendees were SLC graduates, demonstrating a strong tradition of alumni giving back to the programs long after graduation.
Ten new programs are currently in the work planned to launch in fall 2025, including a new Welding Techniques program that will complement the existing Welding and Fabrication Technician program in Cornwall. The input from PACs has been integral to developing these new programs, providing critical feedback and ensuring due diligence and thorough consultations.
The new programs planned are:
•Mechanical Techniques – Design and Manufacturing (K)
•Electrical Techniques (K)
•Civil Engineering Technician (K)
•Biotechnology Technician (K)
•Welding Techniques (C)
•Motive Power Technician (C)
•Computing Fundamentals – Networking Stream (K & C)
•Computing Fundamentals – Programming Stream (K & C)
•Computer Systems Technician – Part-Time (Online)
•Computer Programming – Part-Time (Online)
International students also play a significant role, with many PAC members hiring international graduates. The need to grow and maintain tech and trades enrollment aligns with the government’s mandate to produce graduates in fields that meet labour market needs. The meeting highlighted the SLC Mobile Training Labs, an innovative solution to expand access and training opportunities to high school students across Eastern Ontario.
“The PACs play a crucial role in ensuring the relevance, effectiveness, and alignment of our programs with industry and community needs,” Daniel said. “Their expertise and insights are invaluable in guiding us towards maintaining the highest standards of education and preparing our students for the challenges and opportunities of their respective fields.”