May 6, 2002 - 5:00pm
Three long-time supporters of Heavy Duty Mechanics programs at Malaspina University-College have been given special recognition for their contributions.
Plaques acknowledging major gifts from George and Beverly de Lure, Finning Canada, Caterpillar and Cummins British Columbia were unveiled and will be mounted permanently in the new Heavy Duty Mechanics building at the Nanaimo campus.
George and Beverly de Lure of Independent Diesel Sales have been supporters ever since George graduated from the program “many years ago.” Most recently they donated a 60 Series Detroit Diesel engine with computer controlled fuel system and an Allison transmission valued at $24,000. The unit provides invaluable training opportunities for the program’s 54 students and apprentices.
Finning Canada, Caterpillar and Cummins B.C. have also recently donated engines and related equipment, machinery, electronic software and student awards worth more than $80,000.
“Heavy Duty Mechanics is an expensive program to offer because of the size and sophistication of the equipment involved,” said Malaspina’s President, Rich Johnston. “And yet there is strong demand in the province for skilled workers in this field, so we are especially grateful to have the participation of industry, and especially these great local supporters.”
The Heavy Duty mechanics program is one of the oldest at Malaspina University-College. It recently moved out of its original home in a converted World War Two tank assembly building, into a new $3.5 million building on Wakesiah Avenue.
Contact: Roger Prior, (250) 740-6212.
Tags: In the Community
