FINNtech Launched Amid Fanfare

March 13, 2012

From being dubbed an “industry model,” to being called “the opportunity of a lifetime” by students – Keyano’s FINNtech program received innumerable accolades during the launch event today.

Attended by senior leadership from Finning Canada, Caterpillar, and Keyano College, the event was held at the Suncor Energy Industrial Campus, complete with a 40-tonne CAT-740B truck serving as a backdrop.

David Primrose, Executive Vice President, Mining, Finning Canada thanked and congratulated everyone for launching the program in a short time.

“Finning is a long-time active member of this community. Together with Caterpillar we haven’t only provided tools and cash, but we are addressing a long-term need for labour in the region. Congratulations to all the students on starting a challenging and rewarding career path,” Primrose said.

Mike Reinsma, Canada Regional Mining Manager, Caterpillar, echoed similar sentiments. He advised students to “learn what you want safely; FINNtech is a great stepping stone for whatever you want to do.”

FINNtech is a 20-month heavy equipment technician program. The first cohort started classes on February 27. Jeffrey Carrigan and Cass Mills are two of the 23 students, who shared their thoughts with the attendees.

“I’m honoured to have this opportunity of a lifetime to work for a world-class company like Finning Canada. Thank you Keyano College, Finning Canada and Caterpillar,” said Carrigan.

“We will not only meet, but exceed your expectations,” added Mills.

Dr. Kevin Nagel, President & CEO, Keyano College, congratulated and thanked both the Finning Canada and Keyano teams who made the program possible.

“We have created a model for industry. This program not only meets industry labour needs, it has a quality design, streamlined with meeting requirements in multiple disciplines and safety standards,” Dr. Nagel explained.

John Wilson, Chair, Keyano Board of Governors applauded Finning Canada for their continued support of Keyano College, “whether it is training our workforce, or starting a hockey team, you are great,” he enthused.

Finning Canada is Keyano College’s recently named 2012 Partner of the Year. Over the next three years, Finning Canada will invest approximately $3.5 million in bursaries, technology, equipment, and student incentives to support the FINNtech Program. It is the single largest post-secondary education donation in Finning Canada’s history.

Keyano College accepts 24 students into each intake; the upcoming intake dates are April 23, 2012, January 7, 2013 and March 4, 2013.

For more information, please contact:

Hilary Anaka
Team Lead
Corporate Communications
Finning Canada
Office: (780) 930-4837
Cell: (780) 499-8200
E-mail: hanaka@finning.ca

Kiran Malik-Khan
Communications Specialist
Marketing & Communications
Keyano College
780-791-8971
E-mail: Kiran.Malik-Khan@keyano.ca