Every flight begins long before an aircraft leaves the ground. It starts with the skilled Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) whose expertise, precision, and commitment to safety keep Canada's aircraft flying. 

As British Columbia's aerospace industry continues to grow, so does the need for these highly trained AMEs. Thanks to a transformative $17 million commitment from Barry Lapointe through the BPL Legacy Association, more students will now be able to pursue those careers at Okanagan College. 

Through a partnership between OC and the BPL Legacy Association, the charitable organization behind the KF Centre for Excellence, this investment will help establish a $22 million centre for aerospace training and technology at Kelowna International Airport. 

Located beside the KF Centre for Excellence, the new facility will expand OC’s Aircraft Maintenance Engineering program from 64 to 140 students each year, a critical increase that will help meet the growing demand across the Okanagan. It will be a place where students learn alongside industry, gaining experience in an environment that reflects the realities of today's aerospace sector. 

“It’s exciting that future students will have even more opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed. I am confident that the skills I am gaining will help my career take off,” said Mikayla McDermott, student, Okanagan College. 

BC's aerospace industry includes more than 200 companies and contributes approximately $2.5 billion to the local economy each year. Strengthening local training opportunities helps ensure those economic benefits continue to grow across the Okanagan and beyond. 

By investing in education today, we can build a stronger workforce for an industry that plays a vital role in our province’s future. Together, Okanagan College, the BPL Legacy Association, and industry partners are helping ensure the Okanagan continues to be a place where talent, innovation, and opportunity reach new heights.