Lambton College is standing in solidarity with its counterparts in an effort to protect Ontario's jobs and industries amid the ongoing trade war with the United States.
The school has joined forces with 10 similar colleges to launch the Ontario Regional Economic Workforce and Innovation Network (OREWIN).
President and CEO Rob Kardas said it's about harnessing the strengths of each institution.
"It's really to try and advance the economic interests of Ontario's small, rural and northern communities," said Kardas. "It's really going to be designed to serve as a reminder of the important role we play in those smaller communities around economic development and, in our case, research and so on."
Kardas said now is a critical time for Ontario's colleges to come together.
"With the tariffs and the trade war, Ontario needs our public colleges to be at their best," he said. "I think when we're united this way with other colleges that are similar in size or location, it really helps to co-create solutions that will respond to local, provincial and national challenges while delivering real local impact. That's what we want to highlight, and that's what we want on a pedestal."
Kardas said part of the mandate will be to create new programming and try to increase enrolment.
"Each college is obviously going to leverage their distinct industry, education and community networks," said Kardas. "We're partnering on the $705 million investment to expand STEM and skilled trades. So, it's looking at new programming in those areas. We've started the discussion with industry. I can't announce anything yet, but I'm excited about where they're going and what we're going to be able to offer. For Lambton College a key pillar, going back to our first year, has been relationships with industry. That continues to drive us."
While nothing has been finalized, Kardas said Lambton College will likely host some activities and events designed to remind the government of the important role the school plays in the community.
The workforce will help deliver on $22 billion worth of new infrastructure investments across Ontario.
The colleges will also be working to train over a million skilled trades workers through the province’s $2.5 billion investment, including by enhancing and continuing to deliver local apprenticeships.
OREWIN Chair and Canadore College President George Burton commented on the partnership in a news release.
"Small, northern and rural colleges are already key drivers of Ontario’s economic success, and this partnership reinforces our commitment to driving Ontario’s critical industries forward while helping Ontario workers navigate a changing trade and economic landscape," said Burton.
OREWIN also includes Cambrian College, Canadore College, Collège Boréal, Collège La Cité, Confederation College, Fleming College, Loyalist College, Northern College, St. Lawrence College, and Sault College.