Education

SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS • SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 2022 7 EDUCATION GUIDE Following the in-class portion of this program, students are part- nered with local businesses for a paid work integrated learning (practicum) experience. Student placements range from small- scale companies to some of Mani- toba's largest construction orga- nizations. Some practicums even take place in a student's home community. Einarsson noted that many students are hired perma- nently by their practicum host, helping them get a good start in their careers. Along with building careers, CLC grows connections to stu- dents' surroundings as they take part in a variety of community projects that create bonds to cul- ture and community as a whole. Past projects have included stu- dents participating in Habitat for Humanity builds. Einarsson also said that it is important to have students engaged in a live con- struction project, as being on site teaches practical work skills and provides a clearer understanding of what students can expect from a future in construction. MITT's community outreach extends beyond the CLC program to the organization's strategic pri- orities. For the last seven years, MITT has made it a priority to strengthen bonds on campus, both among Indigenous students and outwardly to the general stu- dent population. Earlier in 2022, Rhonda Klippenstein was hired as the college's manager of Indig- enous initiatives and community development. She will be work- ing across all of MITT's campuses but will spend dedicated time to the CLC program. Klippenstein has extensive experience working with Indigenous students and the community, which will be of great benefit to the CLC program. Approximately one year ago, Neil Cooke joined MITT as vice- president, academic. He is MITT's first First Nations lead for the aca- demic department and is bringing tremendous knowledge and expe- rience to MITT's programs. "MITT is working to implement Indigenous programing into many of our programs," says Cooke. "We are dedicated to enhancing the partnerships and ties we have to Indigenous communities in Mani- toba, giving Indigenous youth a safe environment to learn, build- ing strong networks, becoming career ready and providing sup- ports for growth and understand- ing for all of our students." Visit MITT.ca to learn more about MITT. SUPPLIED PHOTOS MITT is working to implement Indigenous programing into many of our programs." — Neil Cooke, MITT vice-president, academic CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

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