Page 14 - April 2024 INSIGHT MAGAZINE.indd

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Second phase gets underway at These intentional choices will work together to create a
skilled trades campus on Reuter “climate-positive” building.
Remaining trades programs at other Conestoga sites will move
Drive to the new building: both post-secondary and apprenticeship
motive power trades programs from Guelph and post-secondary
Work is underway on the second phase of the Conestoga carpentry programs from the Dearborn site in Waterloo to
Skilled Trades Campus in Cambridge. The new 220,000 sq. ft. create a comprehensive trades campus at the 41-acre Reuter
building is expected to open in 2026, making the campus the Drive property next to Highway 401.
largest, most modern trades training facility in Canada. Woodworking will stay at the Doon campus, brick and stone

The first phase of the Cambridge - Reuter Drive campus masonry in Waterloo, and electrical utilities powerline training
welcomed students in 2022. The second is expected to open its in Ingersoll. Along with learning spaces, the new building will

doors in September 2026. When finished, the campus will be feature other amenities for students, including esports and
the largest, most modern trades training facility in Canada and recreational facilities.
serve as a showcase for the skilled trades. The new building will

be 220,000 sq. t. and home to a variety of trades in a purpose- The first building at Reuter Drive covers 322,000 sq. t. -- half

designed space like the first. of that occupied by shops and labs specifically designed for
trades education and training. A grand opening was held in
“The vision of having this comprehensive trades building is early November 2023, with students, employees, and industry
exciting,” said Suzanne Moyer, dean of the School of Trades and community friends and partners joining the celebration.
& Apprenticeship. And, Moyer added, it’s a testament to The labs and shops are the building’s highlight.
Conestoga’s mission to help address the critical need for skilled
tradespeople in Ontario. The building features a cafeteria and event space that’s
invaluable for gatherings such as job fairs, as well as everything
There is also a focus on making the building as sustainable as students need onsite, including a library, bookstore, student
possible from the ground up - starting with geothermal energy services o ce, and study and lounge spaces. The two buildings

to o†set heating and cooling costs to the use of renewable will be joined by a covered walkway and the space around will

materials. The robust building envelope will require less incorporate Indigenous features and native plants.
energy to operate, said Tim Schill, vice-president of Facilities
and Capital Development.

14 Spring 2024 www.cambridgechamber.com