Advanced Manufacturing Centre Opens In Ontario

Ontario is increasing its support for the development of a highly skilled workforce and helping businesses in the Niagara region grow with the opening of the Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre in Welland, Ont.

The new Niagara College-affiliated centre provides students with more than 15,000 sq. ft. of lab space for hands-on applied learning, space for local companies to work on-site, and office space for Niagara students and industry staff.

“Ontario’s dynamic manufacturing sector is a key component of our diverse economy. The Walker Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre is a shining example of a company that has taken advantage of homegrown talent to drive success, while providing custom work for businesses throughout the region. These investments are among the many significant measures we’ve taken to help the sector grow and compete as we build and nurture the workforce of tomorrow,” said Minister of Finance Charles Sousa.

The centre also will help Ontario’s small and medium-sized manufacturers save on production costs and reduce production time by providing them access to leading-edge equipment and state-of-the-art research facilities, as well as the expertise and business services of faculty and students.

“It’s an exciting day for Niagara College as we formally recognize how the province of Ontario’s investment and the donation from the Walker family have made it possible to provide manufacturers with increased access to leading-edge facilities, equipment, technical expertise, training, and services, while increasing training and employment opportunities for our students,” said Dan Patterson, president of Niagara College.