Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation and Seaspan announce $5.26M for new trades training centre

Seaspan ULC

A $5.26 million grant will establish a new Trades Training Centre next to the Camosun Coastal Centre and significantly expand the college’s ability to support the marine industry including Seaspan.

Support for maritime trades education and workforce development

Adjacent to Victoria Shipyards, the training centre will adopt an 'Indigenous First' approach, offering scholarships and prioritized access to Indigenous students. By allocating $200,000 towards scholarships, this initiative seeks to empower Indigenous students and help them overcome financial and systemic barriers to education.

Designed to be modern and fully equipped, the facility will provide specialized trades training in a culturally responsive environment, fostering inclusivity and community engagement. It will feature advanced classrooms and adaptable shop spaces, tailored to meet the evolving demands of the marine trades. To ensure graduates are job-ready, programs will also offer a broad array of training options, including safety certifications and specialized maritime training.

Expanding opportunities in the nautical trades

This investment underscores our dedication to promoting the growth and sustainability of British Columbia’s maritime industry, while also providing direct support to students pursuing careers in the marine trades. By enhancing workforce development and offering resources for students entering the trades, the Trades Training Centre will be instrumental in tackling the pressing national shortage of skilled professionals in this sector, which is essential for Canada’s economic stability.

“The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation is honoured to support Camosun College in its work to develop a diverse marine trades workforce through the establishment of the Trades Training Centre. This investment will ensure the next generation of skilled tradespeople are supported and ready to meet the future challenges of the marine industry.”

- Jon Bennion, Executive Director, the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation

 

“The $5.26 million grant will establish a new Trades Training Centre next to the Camosun Coastal Centre and significantly expand our ability to support the marine industry including Seaspan. The college is grateful for the generous support of the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation in conjunction with Seaspan and values the relationship that goes back almost 25 years. We can all do better work together.”

- Lane Trotter, President, Camosun College

 

"The Trades Training Centre is crucial for closing the existing skills gap in the marine trades while also developing a diverse and inclusive workforce. Seaspan, in conjunction with the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, is proud to invest in a training centre that will be a game changer for students who are interested in pursuing a rewarding, lifelong career in the marine industry.”

- John McCarthy, CEO, Seaspan Shipyards

About the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation 

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation is the major philanthropic organization for The Washington Companies and the Washington Family. The Foundation strives to better the human condition by supporting programs and services that give people the tools to enhance the quality of their lives and to benefit society as a whole. Funding for the Foundation comes from personal contributions from the Washington Family and annual contributions from The Washington Companies. 

About Seaspan

Seaspan is a leader in Canada’s ship design, engineering, building and ship repair industry. With modern facilities and a dedicated workforce of approximately 4,000 in North Vancouver and Victoria, the company has proven itself to be a trusted and strategic partner on a range of complex projects for both the government and private sector.

Marine Trades Training

Industry approved Marine Training Certification taught by industry professionals. 

Marine training