Schulich Foundation Extends Groundbreaking Support for Algonquin College Skilled Trades Education

Initiated in February 2023, the Schulich Builders program represents a commitment to addressing labor shortages in the skilled trades sector. In its first year alone, over $3 million was pledged to support students, emphasizing the vital role of skilled trades in Canada.

The Schulich Foundation has now contributed a total of $650,000 to the program, consisting of $325,000 in the first year and an equal amount in the second, reaffirming their dedication to skilled trades education.

The Schulich Builders scholarship covers tuition, tools, and living expenses for students enrolled in various skilled trade programs.

Judy Schulich, Director of the Schulich Foundation, expressed pride in promoting skilled trades and supporting students in this rewarding career path. “Canadians rely heavily on the trades to build and maintain critical infrastructure for prosperous communities. Our challenge today is not having enough of these talented people to meet the demand.”

In addition to financial support, Schulich Builders provides leadership and mentorship to equip graduates for success in their careers.

Claude Brulé, President and CEO of Algonquin College, emphasized the enduring impact of the program, stating, “The Schulich Builders scholarship program stands as a pivotal force in shaping the future for students aspiring to excel in the skilled trades. Extending this program underscores our commitment to addressing the persistent demand for skilled trades, ensuring sustained community success, and empowering students with the tools they need to thrive both professionally and personally.”

Program Details:

• Each college will award 10 scholarships per year:
• Five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs
• Five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs

The Schulich Foundation and Algonquin College remain dedicated to fostering talent, addressing labor shortages, and supporting students in their pursuit of excellence in the skilled trades.

The application period for the fall intake concluded on March 25th, with the next cohort of 10 Schulich Builders set to be announced in June 2024.

For more information, please visit Schulich Builders or Algonquin College’s Schulich Builders.

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For media inquiries:

Megan Fraser
Communications Officer
Algonquin College
fraserm2@algonquincollege.com
613-302-0138

About Algonquin College 

The mission of Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology is to transform hopes and dreams into lifelong success. Algonquin College, an Ontario public sector community college, does this by offering hands-on, digitally connected, experiential learning in more than 200 programs. Algonquin College is the largest polytechnic institute in Eastern Ontario, with campuses in Ottawa, Perth, Pembroke and AC Online.

About the Schulich Foundation

The Schulich Foundation is one of Canada’s largest foundations, having donated in excess of $350 million. Seymour Schulich established and funded The Schulich Foundation. He holds Canada’s highest civilian award, the Order of Canada, and is among Canada’s greatest philanthropists. Having benefited greatly from a scholarship that enabled him to do his MBA, Mr. Schulich has built a well-earned reputation as a champion for education and access to education in Canada and around the world. The Schulich Foundation has endowed university faculties of business, engineering, medicine, law, education, music, chemistry, nursing and dentistry; libraries, dormitories, courtyards, medical health centers, lecture and music halls. Over 7,000 scholarships are awarded annually to students in Schulich Schools. The Foundation’s largest initiative is the $200 million Schulich Leaders Scholarship, spanning 25 universities across Canada and Israel, in support of students pursuing STEM. The Schulich Builders scholarship program is a testament to the foundation’s dedication to nurturing talent in the skilled trades.