In a knowledge-based economy, this is the time for the people of northern Manitoba. Employment opportunities are there….right now…machine operators, computer techs, heavy machine drivers, lawyers, accountants, managers, cooks & caterers, office staff, bankers, geologists, pilots, air traffic controllers, produce managers, retail store managers, student counselors, civil engineers, law enforcement, sales officers, regional product representatives, office managers, investors, doctors, nurses, dentists, health care support workers, teachers, electricians, plumbers, pipe fitters…..the list of opportunities is endless and they all go through UCN. Eveleyn Scott, a resident of the Opaskwayak Cree Nation graduated from the faculty of Business in 2012 and summed it up best. “We are the future of the North. And the key to that future is knowledge. UCN offers a path to that knowledge – one that will shape your career direction, and help you achieve your goals, aspirations, and future”. After graduation Evelyn became a full-time employee within UCN in the Enrolment Services division. One key component to the success of UCN and it’s students is the ability to provide modern and technologically advanced infrastructure. In April 2013 UCN concluded a $16 Million upgrade to the campus in The Pas with the construction of a new research library, a 71 unit childcare facility and 24 – three and four bedroom housing units. Also in 2013 UCN opened new regional centre operations in St. Theresa Point, Swan River, Flin Flon and in Grand Rapids on the Misipawistik Cree Nation. As well UCN through its partnership with HudBay Minerals, University of Manitoba, the Government of Manitoba and the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, opened the first of its kind anywhere, mining academy in Flon Flon. Just a few weeks ago grand opening ceremonies were held in the City of Thompson where the doors were opened an entirely new campus – 90,000 square foot, four story Lead Silver certified building that includes: • 15 new distance learning classrooms; • Three computer labs; • A dedicated chemistry/biology science lab; • A multi-purpose physics/math/biology science lab; • 12-bed nursing lab with clinical simulation capabilities; • A 60 seat lecture theatre; • A new library; • A new student centre • A 73-space child care facility for infant, toddler, preschool and school-aged children.
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first nations resource magazine