Okanagan College expands computer information systems degree with new options to address demand for tech talent
June 15, 2026
Okanagan College is expanding its Bachelor of Computer Information Systems (BCIS) degree with three new options beginning in September 2026: Cybersecurity, Data Engineering and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and an Honours Degree. The additions give students a more direct path to some of B.C.'s fastest-growing and highest-demand technology careers.The expansion responds directly to labour market signals. According to the B.C. Labour Market Outlook 2025, professional, scientific and technical services — which encompasses computer syste...
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Expanding skilled-trades training in Okanagan
June 11, 2026
Okanagan College will receive 256 new skilled-trades training seats as part of the Look West strategy commitment to deliver 5,000 new trades training seats in 2026-27. The Provincial Government made the announcement today in Kelowna at an event featuring Okanagan College student Emily Frick, who spoke of her experience in the skilled trades....
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Okanagan College celebrates standout student achievement at 2026 Skills Canada National Competition
June 9, 2026
Not only do Okanagan College students Emily Frick and Vladyslav Usach have promising careers ahead of them working in the skilled trades, but they will also forever be linked as two of the top OC students to compete at the national level.OC is celebrating the students and their standout results at the 2026 Skills Canada National Competition, held on May 28 and 29 in Toronto, Ontario. Both brought home national hardware — Frick earning the bronze medal in Car Painting and Usach capturing the gold medal in Collision Repair. Frick...
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Okanagan College celebrates graduates across four campuses in spring convocation
June 6, 2026
More than 800 students from across the Okanagan and beyond are crossing the stage this week as Okanagan College (OC) marks Spring Convocation and Commencement ceremonies at all four of its campuses – Kelowna, Vernon, Salmon Arm and Penticton – celebrating graduates from dozens of different programs who represent the diverse training offerings at the College.Two ceremonies are being held in Kelowna today (June 6) while ceremonies will also take place in Vernon (Monday, June 8 at 4:30 p.m., Vernon Performing Arts Centre) and on OC cam...
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OC animation students help brand the BC Summer Games
June 3, 2026
The Kelowna 2026 BC Summer Games is shaped by volunteers, and Okanagan College students are helping lead the chargeMonths before athletes arrive in Kelowna for the 2026 BC Summer Games, animation students and alumni from Okanagan College have already been designing the visual elements behind the event’s look and feel.The students’ work will appear across the Games, when they take place July 22 to 26, from pin designs and sponsor signage to banners, merchandise and venue graphics seen by thousands of Games participants, voluntee...
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OC Student Success Highlights Practical Path into B.C.’s Design and Drafting Industry
May 28, 2026
When Akinkunmi Faluyi graduated from high school, he had a clear creative instinct — a keen interest in 3D modelling and design — but no obvious path to turn it into a career. He enrolled in a program to sharpen his digital art skills, but felt like something was missing.Then he heard about the Certificate in Essential Technical Skills for Architecture, Construction, and Engineering (ACE Certificate), delivered by the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) in partnership with Okanagan College (OC) at the Kelowna campus."I b...
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Okanagan College launches Open Studies to expand access to credit courses for learners across the region
May 25, 2026
Okanagan College (OC) is making its courses more accessible to the public with the introduction of Open Studies at OC, the ability for people to take individual courses without taking a full program. "Learning doesn't always start with a program," said OC’s Provost and Vice President Academic, Dr. Samantha Lenci....
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Community rallies as Okanagan College’s Recreation and Wellness Centre enters final stretch
May 22, 2026
With the Don Folk and Family Recreation and Wellness Centre rapidly taking shape on Okanagan College’s Kelowna campus, excitement is building among students, donors and community supporters as the Thrive Here campaign enters its final stretch toward a $14 million goal. Designed to support not only athletics but also connection, wellness and belonging, the Centre is poised to become a vibrant hub for OC students and employees and the community. Scheduled to open in fall 2026, the Centre will include a competition-size gymnasium,...
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Meet Emilie Lougheed, Welding instructor
May 20, 2026
Q: What is your education and background?A: In 2016 I completed my Foundations ticket here at OC after first trying welding while living overseas in New Zealand. With the help of WITT and MNBC I completed all my levels here at the college.I bounced around all over BC including the Kootenays and Revelstoke where I built inland ferries and worked for CP Rail.Q: What is your area of interest?A: I enjoy working creatively with my hands, whether that’s welding and trying ne...
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Okanagan College hosting 2nd student-led community Pride kick-off celebration
May 14, 2026
Okanagan College, together with students from the OC Pride Community, is proud to host the second community Pride celebration at Okanagan College’s Kelowna campus on May 26 from 4 to 8 p.m.The community is invited to the all-ages free event featuring performances from OC student, community and alumni drag performers including Jovian, Misty Demeanour, Freida Whales, The Muffin Man, Mr. ShellFish and Bummer.“In these troubling times, it is an honour to create an event that allows for some inclusivity, community, and celebration,” said...
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