AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
NICOLA VALLEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
IMPORTANT DATES August 3 BC Day - NVIT Campuses Closed August 7 Last day of Summer 2026 Classes August 8 - 14 Final Examination
Looking Ahead: A New Academic Year at NVIT Learning has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities, and carry knowledge forward for future generations. In this edition, we celebrate new program offerings, welcome students preparing to begin another academic year, and highlight opportunities that support success both inside and outside the classroom. From language revitalization and community-driven education to student supports and career pathways, each story reflects the impact of learning rooted in Indigenous knowledge and values. These initiatives demonstrate NVIT's ongoing commitment to empowering learners and responding to the needs of the communities we serve. We are excited to share what's ahead and invite you to join us as we begin another year of growth, connection, and achievement.
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS? Explore NVIT's Newest Programs NVIT continues to expand educational opportunities that strengthen Indigenous knowledge, languages, cultures, and communities while preparing learners for meaningful careers. This fall, a range of new and innovative programs and microcredentials will provide students with pathways in Indigenous language revitalization, environmental stewardship,
early childhood education, housing development, and community leadership. Designed in partnership with Indigenous communities and grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing, these programs offer learners the opportunity to build practical skills, support cultural continuity, and create positive change in their communities and beyond.
September 7 Labour Day - NVIT Campuses Closed September 8 Student Orientation Day September 9 First Day of Classes September 16 Nominations open for Education Council & Board of Governors September 22 Last day to add a class Last day to drop a class and receive a 100% tuition refund September 24 Elections open for Education Council & Board of Governors September 30 Tuition & Fees Deadline National Day for Truth and Reconciliation NVIT Campuses Closed CAMPUS EVENTS & WORKSHOPS Check out the upcoming events and workshops happening at both NVIT’s Merritt and Vancouver campuses at nvit.ca/events
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS? NEW PROGRAMS ROOTED IN COMMUNITY, CULTURE, AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITY At NVIT, education is grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing while preparing learners for the opportunities and challenges of today and tomorrow. Our newest programming reflects this commitment, offering pathways in housing and construction, language revitalization, environmental stewardship, early years education, and Indigenous language fluency. Indigenous Construction Standard Micro-Credential The Indigenous Construction Standard Micro-Credential prepares learners to plan, develop, and manage sustainable, culturally relevant, and healthy housing projects for Indigenous communities. Through learning focused on affordability, sustainability, energy efficiency, health and wellness, and culturally appropriate building practices, students gain practical knowledge that can support housing development both on and off reserve. The program is designed for a broad range of learners, including housing managers, project supervisors, apprentices, tradespeople, and others working in the construction sector. Indigenous Language Revitalization Micro-Credential Language is at the heart of identity, culture, and community. The Indigenous Language Revitalization Micro-Credential provides foundational knowledge in language learning, teaching, and revitalization. Learners explore language preservation strategies, work alongside Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and develop skills that can be applied in community programs, educational settings, storytelling projects, and cultural initiatives. Graduates can also continue their studies through Indigenous Language Certificate and Diploma pathways. ‘tmixʷ syilx Science Learning Certificate Offered through the En’owkin Centre, the ‘tmixʷ syilx Science Learning Certificate brings together STEM education, syilx knowledge systems, and nsyilxcn language learning. Designed to support Indigenous land stewardship and communitybased research, the program provides a pathway into university studies in science, environmental disciplines, and resource management. Graduates are prepared to contribute to areas such as water protection, sustainable forestry, fisheries biology, and the application of Traditional Ecological Knowledge.
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS? Indigenous Language for Early Years Certificate The Indigenous Language for Early Years Certificate combines language revitalization with early childhood education. Learners gain the practical skills needed to support young children while incorporating Indigenous languages into everyday learning environments. Through experiential and land-based learning, students develop the confidence to create culturally grounded, language-rich spaces that support both child development and community language renewal. Tŝilhqot’in Language Fluency Certificate and Diploma Created in response to the growing need for fluent Indigenous language speakers, the Tŝilhqot’in Language Fluency programs help learners strengthen their language proficiency while deepening their understanding of Tŝilhqot’in culture, knowledge, and worldview. The certificate and diploma pathways emphasize conversational fluency, immersion learning, and community-based language revitalization, preparing graduates to support language preservation efforts within their communities. x̄á’isla Language Fluency Certificate Developed in collaboration with the Haisla Nation, the x̄á’isla Language Fluency Certificate provides learners with opportunities to build language proficiency through immersion-based learning and community engagement. Grounded in Indigenous language and cultural knowledge, the program supports the next generation of language champions who will carry forward and strengthen the x̄ á’isla language for years to come.
START YOUR JOURNEY AT NVIT Whether your passion lies in language revitalization, environmental stewardship, community housing, or early childhood education, these new programs offer opportunities to strengthen skills, support communities, and create lasting impact. Explore all our programs and apply at nvit.ca
FOR MORE DETAILS, FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIAL MEDIA
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS? We're Ready to Welcome You Back The start of a new academic year is almost here, and the NVIT community is excited to welcome both new and returning students to campus. Student Orientation is an important opportunity to connect with classmates, faculty, and staff, while becoming familiar with the services, supports, and resources available throughout your educational journey. Whether you are beginning your first semester or returning to continue your studies, Orientation is designed to help you feel confident, supported, and ready for success. Students will have the opportunity to meet members of the NVIT community, explore campus, learn about academic and student support services, and participate in activities that help build new connections. From tutoring and library services to financial aid and student supports, Orientation provides valuable information to help students make the most of their NVIT experience. All new and returning students are encouraged to attend. Online learners are also welcome and can participate either in person at the Merritt or Vancouver campuses or virtually through Microsoft Teams.
STUDENT ORIENTATION SEPTEMBER 8, 2025 MERRITT: 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM VANCOUVER: 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM FOR MORE DETAILS, FOLLOW US ON OUR SOCIAL MEDIA
As you prepare for the year ahead, don't forget to explore NVIT's Entrance Awards. Each year, a variety of awards, scholarships, and bursaries are available to support students in their educational goals. These awards recognize academic achievement, community involvement, leadership, financial need, and other accomplishments. Entrance awards are presented annually in September and can help ease the financial burden of post-secondary education. We look forward to seeing familiar faces return and meeting the newest members of the NVIT family. Welcome to another exciting year of learning, growth, and community at NVIT! For Orientation details and information on Entrance Awards, visit nvit.ca
ENTRANCE AWARDS Deadline of applications
August 15, 2026
nvit.ca/entranceawards
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
MONTHLY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY STORIES Staying Safe on the Road During Wildfire Season Tips for travelling and working safely during smoky, high-risk conditions As wildfires continue to affect communities across British Columbia, it's important to remember that the risks extend beyond flames. Smoke, heat, and road debris can make driving more dangerous, especially in rural or remote areas. Whether you’re heading to campus, travelling for work, or setting up at a roadside site, these tips can help you stay safe.
Drive Calmly and Cautiously Smoke can limit visibility and impair your ability to react to sudden changes on the road. Reduce your speed, increase your following distance to 4–6 seconds, and keep your headlights and taillights on. Always follow instructions from emergency personnel or traffic control staff, and avoid driving at night when visibility is already reduced.
Limit Smoke Exposure While Driving Keep windows closed and switch your air system to “recirculate” to prevent smoky air from entering your vehicle. Turn off recirculation every hour for about 15 minutes to give your air filters a chance to refresh.
Be Prepared Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. Essentials include bottled water, booster cables, a flashlight, a map (in case you lose cell service), a “Help/OK” sign, and a few masks in case you need to leave the vehicle in smoky conditions. Preparation can make a big difference in an emergency.
If You Work at a Roadside Site Before leaving, take a few minutes to review your work plan. Check traffic, weather, and wildfire conditions. Pack your PPE, cones, signage, and ensure your vehicle is road-ready. Review your role, setup plan, and emergency escape route with your supervisor. Clear communication can help keep everyone safe.
A Few Extra Minutes Can Make All the Difference Being prepared isn’t just a good habit—it’s a vital step in protecting yourself and those around you. For more tips and resources, visit RoadSafetyAtWork.ca and check out their Safety at the Roadside: What Workers Need to Know guide.
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
CONTINUING STUDIES
CONTINUING STUDIES COURSES August - December 2026
Building Confidence to Provide Mental Health Support Tuition for CMHA courses is fully covered through the generous support of the Canadian Red Cross.
Mental Health First Aid Essentials 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Practical Facilitation for Learner Engagement 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Thursday, September 17, 2026
Basic First Aid 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Friday, September 18, 2026
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 Wednesday, October 21. 2026 Friday. November 20, 2026 Wednesday. December 9, 2026
Verbal Intervention® Third Edition 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Friday, September 25, 2026
Advanced First Aid 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, 2 weeks
Trauma Informed Care 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Monday-Friday, October 26 – November 6, 2026 Registration Deadline: October 13, 2026
Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, 2-day course
Standard First Aid with CPR ‘C’ 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, 2-day course
Tuesday - Wednesday, August 18-19, 2026
Registration Deadline: August 14, 2026
Wednesday-Thursday, August 26-27, 2026
Registration Deadline: August 12, 2026
FOODSAFE Level 1 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday-Friday, October 1-2, 2026 Registration Deadline: September 23, 2026
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Living Life to the Full 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM | 8 weeks (Thursdays)
ALL COURSES WILL BE DELIVERED IN-PERSON AT THE NVIT MERRITT CAMPUS. For more information and deadlines, visit nvit.ca/continuingstudies
Thursdays, September 10 - October 29, 2026
Website: nvit.ca Email: info@nvit.ca Toll free: 1.877.682.3300
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AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
COMMUNITY SURVEY
HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF UNIVERSITY TRANSFER AT NVIT We Want to Hear From You!
NVIT is reviewing our University Transfer (UT) programming, and we want to hear from you! Whether you are a student, alumni, community member, or partner, your feedback will help shape future learning pathways and opportunities at NVIT. We invite you to complete our short survey and share your thoughts on programs, experiences, and future directions for UT education. Your input will help ensure our offerings continue to meet the needs of learners and communities. Complete the survey for a chance to win an NVIT hoodie! Thank you for helping us build the future of learning at NVIT.
Learn More about NVIT’s University Transfer
Browse our University Transfer Programs
www.nvit.ca/programs/study-at-nvit/university-transfer
www.nvit.ca/program-overview
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
STEPS FORWARD - INCLUSIVE EDUCATION
Discover What You Can Achieve STEPS Forward Applications are now open! Experience a supported pathway to college, confidence, and future opportunities.
What You Can Expect
Who Are We? STEPS Forward is a family-driven organization founded to ensure that people with developmental disabilities are included as students in the academic and social life of colleges and universities of British Columbia.
Choose an NVIT program based on your interests and goals Take audit courses and earn a Certificate of Completion Access college even if your learning journey has been different Receive personalized support from a STEPS Forward facilitator Build skills, confidence, and independence Complete coursework adapted to your learning style Learn in an inclusive environment with other NVIT students Connect with peers, instructors, and Elders
Who Should Apply? STEPS Forward is for individuals who:
Register today! Reach out to Lynne McCormack to inquire about eligibility or to schedule an appointment. Lynne@steps-forward.org 250 899 6444
Want to continue learning after high school Are interested in a college experience Benefit from individualized support Have goals for personal growth, education, or employment There are no minimum academic requirements. What matters most is your interest in learning and participating in college life.
Our Partners
Learn more www.nvit.ca/apply/know-moreabout-nvit/inclusive-education
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
EVENTS
EXPLORE NVIT’S NEW EVENTS PAGE
nvit.ca/events Your one-stop hub for everything happening at NVIT. Check out upcoming events, plan ahead, and add them to your calendar so you never miss out!
Add events to your calendar now!
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
COMMUNITY EDUCATION BRINGING EDUCATION TO YOUR COMMUNITY
Current Community Deliveries Sault St. Marie, ON Keremeos Kamloops Lil’wat Hazelton Vernon
Williams Lake Lillooet Vancouver Bella Coola Lax Kw’alaams Prince Rupert
Smithers Prince George Sheshatshiu, NL Iskut Whitehorse, YT Penticton
Sapotowayak (Swan River, Manitoba) Chase Calgary Stein Valley Bonaparte First Nation
Dease Lake Tla’zt’ten Lake Babine
Some of the programs offered through Community Education
Community Education is an alternative education method for students who wish to continue residing and learning within their own community. NVIT delivers programming to First Nations communities throughout British Columbia and across Canada. NVIT’s Community Education model supports and provides students with an opportunity to learn in their own community so that they do not have to relocate in order to further their education. NVIT’s Community Education Programming options range from Adult Basic Education to Trades Programs and even the completion of two-year diplomas. For more information visit our Community Education Center today! Or contact coyotetravels@nvit.ca
Indigenous Early Childhood Education (IECE) IECE Micro-Credential Indigenous Human Service Certificate/Diploma Indigenous Language Certificate/Diploma Applied Practical Nursing (APN) Health Care Assistant (HTCA) Indigenous Holistic Wellness and Addictions (IHWA) Certificate/Diploma Bridging to Trades Program Construction Trades Sampler Culinary Arts College Readiness Environmental Natural Resource Technology (ENRT) Medical Office Assistant Office Administration Certificate (OFAD) University Transfer General Arts And MORE!
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES
STUDENT AMBASSADOR Unlock your leadership potential as an NVIT Student Ambassador! Develop your interpersonal, creative, and professional skills while making a significant contribution to the NVIT community.
APPLY NOW! *Compensation provided
GET INVOLVED: STUDENT VOICES NEEDED Are you a student interested in shaping academic policy at NVIT? The Policy Committee is seeking student participation to help ensure policies reflect the lived experiences, perspectives, and priorities of NVIT learners. Serving on the Policy Committee is an opportunity to: Contribute to discussions on academic policies that impact students Share your perspective in institutional decision-making Gain experience in governance and policy development
AUGUST 2026 ISSUE
ANNOUNCEMENTS
APPLY TODAY!
IMMEDIATE ENTRY BURSARY FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 2027-2028
Covers up to $3,074 in tuition for the first year of full-time studies! Students must be in Grade 12, graduating in 2027 from: School District #58 Nicola-Similkameen (Merritt Secondary, Princeton Secondary, SCIDES); School District #74 Gold Trail (David Stoddart Secondary, Desert Sands Community School, Kumsheen Shch-Ema-meet, Lillooet Secondary); School District #78 Fraser-Cascade (Agassiz Elementary-Secondary, Boston Bar Elementary-Secondary, Hope Secondary); Logan Lake Secondary; Similkameen Elementary Secondary; A BC First Nations School registered with the BC First Nations Schools Association; or Any secondary school in British Columbia, if the applicant self-identifies as Indigenous
APPLY TODAY!
DEADLINE: JUNE 30, 2027 Visit www.nvit.ca/ieb. for more information.
NVIT hosts a variety of internal awards open only to NVIT students. Some awards require you to demonstrate financial need, while others recognize academic achievement, community involvement, or other accomplishments. Students interested in viewing our list of bursaries and scholarships in more detail, can make an appointment with an Academic and Financial Planner. Application forms for all awards can be downloaded by clicking on their respective links in yellow below.
Connect to an Academic & Financial Planner now!
Do you want your stories to get featured? Email us at communication@nvit.ca
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