Camosun College awarded $600K in applied-research grants

Released: July 12, 2024 | Last Updated: July 15, 2024

Alisha Dsouza  |  News Release Camosun Innovates

The Camosun Technology Access Centre (CTAC) is an applied research and innovation center that provides dedicated access to specialized technology, equipment and expertise to local and regional companies.

The College and Community Innovation (CCI) program is the primary federal funding vehicle for college applied research. It is intended to strengthen research links and collaborations among Canadian colleges and partners from the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors to create economic, social, health and environmental benefits.

"We are honoured to receive these three grants, which will enable us to further enhance our educational offerings in key employment areas and ensure our students are equipped with the skills and experience needed to excel in the modern workforce.” says Dr. Richard Gale, Director of Camosun Innovates, the college applied research and development unit. “These grants highlight the strength of Camosun College’s dedication to applied research and innovation in support of our community, our industry partners, and our students.”

There were 74 college awards announced in June 2024, 54 of them ARTI awards totalling $9.4 million, including these three Camosun College awards of almost $200,000 each.

1. Advanced Manufacturing Testing Equipment - $199,991

This award funds upgrades to our MTS Criterion 45 tensile tester and the purchase of a new Instron 34TM-30 Tensile Tester (with peel, bend, and compression fixtures). This equipment addresses the immediate testing and quality assurance needs of local industries while providing invaluable training opportunities for Camosun engineering students, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world applications, while ensuring that students are future-ready.

2. CNC and CMM Fabrication Equipment - $199,998

This award supports the purchase of a TRAK 3-Axis Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Bed Mill and a Hexagon Absolute Arm Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), allowing for improved efficiency, wider project scope, and increased speed in fabrication, prototyping, and inspection.  This will enhance state-of-the-art training and services to the community, while building a skilled workforce adept in the integration and operation of new manufacturing technologies.

3. Fiber Laser Cutting Equipment - $199,750

This award facilitates purchase of a Bodor 6kW BodorPower laser cutter for metal sheets, which will dramatically expand the scope and quality of our machining research at a significantly reduced cost for partners, while increasing our ability to train job-ready students in the sheet metal program.  This represents yet another collaboration between Camosun Innovates and the School of Trades and Technology, serving students and educational programs while enhancing the operational capabilities of local industry and fostering economic growth.

“Camosun College's achievement in securing these grants underscores its role as a leader in applied research and innovation, in B.C. and across Canada”

- Lane Trotter, President of Camosun College.

“With this funding, the college is poised to continue its ongoing work with local small and midsize businesses to drive forward community-based economic development while enhancing the educational experiences of our students.

These applied research grants directly align with the college's 2023-2028 Strategic Plan by Strengthening the Camosun Advantage through expansion of applied learning opportunities for all students, ensuring they engage in practical hands-on activities that prepare them to excel in a rapidly evolving global landscape. By integrating cutting-edge technology and equipment into the curriculum, these grants enhance the educational experience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the labour demands of modern industry.

The CCI program is administered by the Natural Sciences and Research Council of Canada (NSERC) in collaboration with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).