Renovations completed at College of the Rockies’ Fernie campus

In addition to the pergola, six new windows were added to the formerly windowless north wall of the building.

A beautiful new pergola is part of the new renovations at the College of the Rockies' Fernie campus. — Photo courtesy College of the Rockies

Students and staff at College of the Rockies’ Fernie campus have a beautiful new pergola and classrooms with a view thanks to the $1 million donation from Teck announced in June 2018. At the time of the donation, $100,000 was allocated to renovations at the Fernie campus.

A pergola located near the campus’ front entrance provides a location for students and staff to gather to socialize, study, and appreciate the fresh Fernie air. In addition, six new windows were added to the formerly windowless north wall of the building, providing an improved classroom environment for three of the campus’ key programs.

“Health Care Assistant, Mountain Activity Skills, and Adult Upgrading students are now able to look out on the stunning Fernie scenery,” said Anita Palmer, Fernie campus manager. “The positive effect of the natural light on students is enormous and the classrooms are much brighter and welcoming now.”

“Providing an exceptional educational experience is our number one priority, in and out of the classroom,” Palmer added. “We were missing an outdoor space for students and staff to enjoy coffee, lunch, or outside classroom time when the weather co-operates. The pergola not only enhances the appearance of the campus, but also provides additional learning and social opportunities for our students.”

“Teck is proud to support the enhancement of local post-secondary facilities to help students gain the skills and education they need to succeed,” said Nic Milligan, Manager of Social Responsibility, Teck. “An inviting place to learn is vital for students as they prepare to embark on their careers, and the improvements made at the campus certainly go a long way to providing that.”

Learn more about College of the Rockies’ Fernie campus at: cotr.ca/fernie

About College of the Rockies

For more than 40 years, College of the Rockies has provided post-secondary education that meets the needs and aspirations of the people, industry and businesses of our region. Each year, we welcome more than 2,300 full-time equivalent students into a full range of programs, including: skilled trades, university studies, adult upgrading, early childhood education, health and human services, business, office administration, tourism, hospitality, recreation, fire services, continuing education and contract training. Through smaller class sizes, highly-personalized instruction and dedicated support services, our students are primed to succeed in the job market, or in the next stage of their academic journey.