Trick or treat 2023 - VCC IE

Get ready for an exciting Halloween celebration!

On October 31st, from 11:30am to 1:30pm, join us outside the IE office room 100 in the DTN campus for a SPOOKTACULAR event.

We'll have thrilling games, delicious candies, and hauntlingly good music lined up just for you.

Don't miss out this memorable event.

More photos to come after the level of spookiness we have waiting for October 31, 2023.

Student Member of VCC's Board of Governors shares her experiences

Airan Sahagun is an international student from the Philippines and is currently enrolled in VCC’s Business & Project Management Post-Degree Diploma program. Airan graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Ateneo de Manila Graduate School of Business. She is the Student Member of VCC’s Board of Governors, as well as the Downtown campus Representative on the Board of the Students' Union of VCC (SUVCC). Airan moved to Vancouver with her family, and her daughter is also a student at VCC. Airan has a lot of passion for supporting and helping her fellow students build a community that benefits everyone. She hopes to be the voice for the students, and relay their experiences to the Board of Governors to make an impact.

What Airan likes the most about her program is how it integrates her financial background in business into information technology and automation. She appreciates how her instructors teach them real-life applications and how to apply the skills in a Canadian workplace. Airan currently works part-time as a business analyst, and aims to build her skills in project management so she can take on a bigger role after graduation.

For those who are planning to study in Canada, Airan would like to remind them to do a lot of research about the programs they would like to study. Studying in a foreign country may not be easy, but Airan believes that as long as they put in the effort and are passionate about their programs of study, they will succeed.

Check out the 5-minute video to see what Airan has to say about her study experiences at VCC.

Interested in learning more about the Business and Project Management Post-Degree Diploma at VCC? Attend an online VCC International Info Session, or book an appointment with an International Student Advisor.

A VCC Hospitality grad's incredible journey

VCC Fashion and CHIWARA Sportswear build inter-cultural fashion careers

For many students in Vancouver Community College’s (VCC) Fashion Design and Production Diploma, their final 120-hour industry practicum is a major highlight. As recent grad Jaya Grewal learned, these hands-on work experiences with local companies also serve as critical steps to launching careers in Vancouver’s fashion industry.

Jaya came to VCC as an international student with previous fashion design experience in India, and it was her inter-cultural perspective that stood out to local start-up company CHIWARA Sportswear.

“The partnership worked because of who Jaya is – she brought maturity, humility, and an openness to learning along with practical skills and knowledge in fashion design,” says CHIWARA Chief Product and Sustainability Officer Glencora Twigg.

Founded in 2021 by Malian-Canadian entrepreneur Oumar Barou Togola, CHIWARA Sportswear is working to develop a premium clothing line that embodies traditional Malian dyes and patterns while promoting Black excellence and reframing the African narrative around the world.

Working as a design assistant during this critical pre-launch period for CHIWARA, Jaya’s tasks ranged from attending fit sessions and conducting trend research to creating 20+ technical/specification packages. “In a start-up, there is an endless amount of work that needs to be done. From the start, Jaya demonstrated a willingness to jump in,” says Glencora.  

“My work placement gave me deep insight into the many details and decisions that go into creating a new design. By attending team meetings, I also got to see the business side and learn more about how CHIWARA was committed to incorporating African culture in their clothing line,” says Jaya.

Overall, Jaya says she appreciated the support, feedback, and mentorship she received during her practicum. After graduating in Spring 2022, Jaya is thankful for this real-world exposure to the design process that she received at CHIWARA and is excited to continue growing her skills and experience in the Canadian fashion industry.  

Follow @chiwara.clothing on Instagram and be the first to know about their official collection launch! 

Learn how you can bring your creative vision to life at VCC by attending our next Fashion Design and Production info session.

President's Welcome - Fall 2023

Dear VCC community,

Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year! As president of Vancouver Community College (VCC), it is my great honour to welcome back students, faculty, and staff returning from summer holidays, and to warmly greet the new students joining us this fall. 

The beginning of the semester is always full of excitement and I love seeing the vibrant energy when our campuses are buzzing with activity. Please read on to learn more about some exciting updates from the college and events to watch out for.

Indigenization at VCC

VCC is located on the traditional and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of this land from time immemorial.

The college is on our journey of reconciliation—working towards decolonizing and indigenizing how we teach, learn, and foster an inclusive college community. Indigenization at the college is a transformative process that seeks to integrate Indigenous perspectives, knowledge, and practices into all aspects of the institution. 

This summer, we were grateful to have two exceptional individuals join the college who will help us on our reconciliation journey. Both Jessie Williams (Squamish First Nation), Dean, Indigenous Initiatives and David Kirk (Tzeachten First Nation), Dean, Curriculum and Pedagogy come with a wealth of experience in building and delivering Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation efforts in post-secondary contexts. We are fortunate to have Jessie and David supporting and guiding the college’s efforts in this important area.  

Later this month, the college will host a welcoming ceremony for Jessie and David organized in consideration of Squamish Nation traditions. As well, the Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team will be organizing activities in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30). Stay tuned for details!

Revitalizing VCC’s campuses

It was an exciting summer for all of us at VCC. As announced by the B.C. government in July, VCC is moving forward with the development of the new Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation at the Broadway campus. The Centre, as a catalyst project for VCC’s Campus Plan will not only revitalize VCC campuses, but it will also transform the Broadway and Great Northern Way corridor for the surrounding communities. Building construction is expected to begin in Spring of 2024. Learn more about the new Centre >

Be part of the #myVCC community

With the start of the fall term, VCC is thrilled to host events and activities throughout the year that inform, educate, build community, and most importantly, provide a reason to get out of your office or classroom!

For students, that starts with Welcome Days hosted by VCC Student’s Union and Student Services on September 12 at the Broadway campus and September 14 at the Downtown campus. There will be games, prizes, food, and an opportunity to learn about all the services available to support your learning at VCC. Learn more about campus resources >

For faculty and staff, please save the date for VCC Day on November 2, our annual professional development and employee appreciation day. This year promises to be a fun-filled gathering with a few surprises that we can’t wait to share.

I wish each of you the very best in the coming year and look forward to seeing you around campus. 

Sincerely,

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College 

VCC grads claim gold in World Cantonese Cuisine competition

From left to right, chef instructor Jie (Jay) Wen, Kevin Soo, Justin Lu, and chef instructor Barry Tsang.

Stacked against elite chefs from over 30 different countries, VCC Asian Culinary Arts International grads Kevin Soo and Justin Lu claimed gold last month at the 4th annual World Master Chefs Competition for Cantonese Cuisine (WMCCCC) held in Kuching, Malaysia.

This comes after months of training under the guidance and mentorship of VCC instructors Chef Barry Tsang and Chef Jie Wen. When it came down to show time, Justin and Kevin had only 60 minutes to develop, execute, and present five identical dishes to a jury that scrutinized every detail before awarding the prestigious title to the winners.

Participants were allowed to bring five ingredients from their home country. The duo won the entrée category for their ‘Sweet potato, white flower and snow’ dish consisting of carrot, chicken and shrimp paste wrapped in a fluffy taro shell.

“The experience was unforgettable and one of a kind,” says Kevin Soo. “Cooking competitions are a very valuable and an important part of an education for chefs.”

Indeed, this event not only provided the pair with the opportunity to work with acclaimed chefs locally and internationally, but also gain exposure to their methods and critical thinking skills.

Despite having to spend over 30 hours on travel time to compete, Kevin and Justin found this championship a reward in and of itself.

“The competition gives us a chance to practice being flexible, and practice time management, self-management and teamwork skills,” says Kevin. “It allows us to express our own creativity, build confidence, and master self-discipline.”

VCC has had medal finishes in past WMCCCC competitions, with this being the first year Kevin and Justin have brought back gold. Previously, in 2019, alumnae Doris Lau and Joey Zhou won bronze in the dim sum category, while Tristan Toderan and Dylan Viray earned silver in the entrée category in 2017.

The VCC Asian Culinary Arts program is the only one of its kind in all of Canada. It is unique in that students learn to prepare different styles of cuisine including Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian, Korean and Chinese, so they can be readily employable in the real world. What’s more, everything is made from scratch, from wonton wrappers to the stuffing, from taro shell to the sauce.

Elevate your experience in Asian cuisine. Take a virtual tour of our state-of-the-art commercial kitchens and learn more about the program.  

Learn more about the opportunity of studying Asian Culinary Arts Certificate program as an international student at VCC!

President's message: Orange Shirt Day

A message from Ajay Patel, VCC president

Dear VCC community,

As we prepare to join our Indigenous colleagues, students, friends, and community in recognition of Orange Shirt Day next week, the recent and heartbreaking announcement from the Stó:lō Nation of the preliminary findings from the Xyólhmet ye Syéwiqwélh (Taking Care of our Children) Project amplifies why Orange Shirt Day is so important. The children taken and lost in the atrocities committed at the St Mary’s Residential School, Coqualeetza Residential School, All Hallows School, and Coqualeetza Indian Hospital is a cruel reminder of what “Truth” means when we talk about Truth and Reconciliation. 

These victims will join the growing list of documented children on the National Residential School Memorial Register who died as a direct result of attending residential schools across Canada. It is our duty to support the many survivors, knowledge keepers, and victims of intergenerational trauma of these residential schools and institutions, in everything we do at Vancouver Community College (VCC). 

The poignant occasions of Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation are more than just annual dates on the calendar; it should also be a time when we reaffirm our shared responsibility to create space for healing, space for growth, and space for compassion, as we continue our journey towards Decolonization and Reconciliation.

I want to remind our college community that the work of Reconciliation involves everyone, and that succeeding in delivering Reconciliation requires that we act together. 

VCC remains steadfast in its commitment towards implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and to fostering an educational system that redresses the genocide committed against Indigenous peoples.

Just this week we came together as a college community to celebrate and welcome newly appointed Indigenous leaders Jessie Williams and David Kirk to their respective roles as Dean, Indigenous Initiatives, and Dean, Curriculum and Pedagogy. Led by cultural knowledge keepers, drummers, and singers, the beautiful ceremony followed the traditions of the Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation. I was deeply humbled to be a witness and it reaffirmed my commitment to ensuring we continue to expand our knowledge and commitment to bringing Indigenous ways of being into our classrooms and our work as a post-secondary institution.  

It is imperative that we acknowledge that post-secondary institutions, including VCC, have deep-seated colonial roots that have shaped their history. By welcoming leaders such as Jessie Williams and David Kirk, along with our esteemed cultural advisors and knowledge keepers, VCC is embarking on a new chapter marked by collaboration, healing, and foundational change towards Reconciliation and inclusion. We understand that creating space goes beyond physical locations on our campus; it extends into our hearts, minds, and day-to-day activities. It's about fostering an environment where Indigenous perspectives and knowledge are not just permitted but celebrated, influencing our decisions and actions as we navigate the path of decolonization.

Creating space for hard conversations is a critical aspect of our journey towards reconciliation. Let us continue to foster an environment where difficult conversations about colonial history, the intentions of colonial actions and the consequences of those actions are fully acknowledged. As well, conversations around the enduring harms that continue to be experienced by Indigenous communities which include continued cultural appropriation and systemic racism are met with empathy. Let's engage in dialogue rather than confrontation and acknowledge that the path to Reconciliation often involves acknowledging our own shortcomings.

Love, too, deserves its place in our commitment to reconciliation. We must hold space for acts of generosity, understanding, and support throughout our community, especially as we support Indigenous students and families on their journey towards healing and empowerment.

Next week, as we come together to commemorate Orange Shirt Day, let us remember that at its roots, we are acknowledging all the children who never had a chance to grow up. By holding space for Indigenous voices, we can ensure that our community becomes a place where everyone’s contributions are celebrated and heard.

Thank you for your commitment to these ideals, and let us continue to create space not just physically but also in our hearts, minds, and day-to-day activities, as we strive towards a more inclusive and reconciled future.

I want to extend my deepest love and sympathies to Stó:lō and the surrounding communities who may be reliving very painful experiences, and the thousands and thousands of families and loved ones all across Canada so cruelly and painfully impacted by the historic atrocities against Indigenous peoples. 

Sincerely,

Ajay Patel
President & CEO 
Vancouver Community College

If you need support, the National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419. Additional support is available through the Indian Residential Schools Survivors Society: 1-800-721-0066.

VCC students experiencing distress or having difficulty coping are encouraged to use the wide range of resources available through the VCC Counselling.

2023 Outstanding Alumni Award recipients

Vancouver Community College (VCC) honoured its 2023 Outstanding Alumni Award recipients at an on-campus reception on April 27. The awards celebrate the significant contributions made by VCC alumni in their profession, at VCC and in the communities they serve.

This year's Outstanding Alumni Award recipients (left-right): Ashley Bitz, community licensed practical nurse, Little Shuswap Band; Tim Ellison, general manager, Vancouver Club; Erin Vickars, department assistant, Culinary Arts, VCC; Vicente Teng, freelance graphic designer and videographer; and Anja Lanz, design engineer, Haakon Industries; Founder and CEO Global Women in Stem Inc.

“This year’s alumni award recipients are remarkable,” says Ajay Patel, VCC president. “Each in their own way, have made a positive impact in their communities. The diversity and contributions of this year’s recipients truly speaks to the unique pathways and broad spectrum of opportunities that VCC creates for our students. We are so proud to have them as part of our VCC community.”

Outstanding Alumni Award recipients - International Students

Congratulations to VCC's most recent Outstanding Alumni Award recipients, including our International students:

• 59 unique award recipients;
• 15 programs represented:
  • Hospitality Management Diploma; Bachelor of Hospitality; Graphic Design Diploma; Culinary Arts Diploma; CAD & BIM Technicians Diploma; Auto Collision and Refinish Diploma; Auto Service Tech Diploma; Business and Project Management Post-Degree Diploma; Dental Technology Diploma; Cosmetology Diploma; Baking and Pastry Dual Certificates; Electronics Repair Technology Diploma; Fashion Design Diploma; Health Care Assistant Diploma; Marketing Tech Diploma.
• 20 countries/regions represented: 
  • Hong Kong; Philippines; India; Korea; China; Brazil; Germany; Indonesia; Iran; Israel; Japan; Mexico; Myanmar; Nigeria; Peru; Sri Lanka; Taiwan; Thailand; Turkey; Venezuela.

To all our International Students,

Congratulations on winning the VCC Spring 2023 award! We are very proud of your accomplishments, and would love to feature you on our website and social media! We love to acknowledge students’ success and share their stories with the VCC community and potential VCC applicants. There are different ways to share your story, please send us an email to agents@vcc.ca

Stay connected with us on social media! Join our vibrant Instagram and Facebook Group to stay up-to-date with the latest news and immerse yourself in the vibrant VCC campus life.

VCC alum wins 2022 Culinary Apprentice of the Year

Left: VCC alum and 2022 Culinary Apprentice of the Year winner, Anh Tran with mentor, Boulevard Kitchen and Oyster Bar's Alex Chen. Right: One of Anh's winning courses - a turkey mille-feuille.

Vancouver Community College (VCC) was honoured to host the 2022 BC Culinary Apprentice of the Year competition today in partnership with the Chefs’ Table Society of BC and the Industry Training Authority (ITA) BC. Eight competitors from around the province had 3.5 hours to serve a three-course meal as each vied for the prestigious Culinary Apprentice of the Year title.

Congrats to VCC alum Anh Tran for winning the 2022 Culinary Apprentice of the Year! Anh is a Culinary Arts grad and was a 2019 Skills Canada BC gold medallist. She currently apprentices under Chef Alex Chen at Boulevard Kitchen and Oyster Bar.

Parliamentary Secretary for Skills Training, Andrew Mercier stopped by the competition to announce the winner and meet with the competitors. According to the 2021 B.C. Labour Market Outlook, the province is estimating 65,000 job openings in the area of accommodation and food services in the next decade. 

Parliamentary Secretary Mercier and VCC president, Ajay Patel with some of the competitors that hail from all over the province.

Thanks to our industry-leading instructors, VCC’s alums represent some of the best and brightest in the industry. Winning this competition is one more step in Anh’s rising star in this competitive industry.

Congrats to all the competitors! A promising future lies ahead for all the talented chefs that competed today.

Culinary legend Bruno Marti judges the competitors creations. Other judges for the competition included Top Chef Canada judge Mijune Pak, Fairmont Pacific Rim's Executive Chef Damon Campbell, and VCC Chef-instructor Tobias MacDonald.

Celebrating the end of another fantastic school year

A message from VCC president, Ajay Patel

Dear VCC community,

As summer is upon us, I would like to take this moment to reflect on the past year at VCC and thank each of you for your valuable contributions.  

There were many moments this year when I was filled with pride for our VCC community—in our students, staff, and faculty—who make VCC such a great place to be. 

Please take a moment to watch the video below that highlights some of the amazing things we have accomplished together and don't forget to check out VCC's Flickr album for more highlights from the past year! 

In the meantime, I wish you all a summer filled with rest, rejuvenation, and meaningful moments with loved ones. 

And for those students who are joining us over the summer months, our staff and faculty look forward to working with you — rain or shine!

May the remaining year be filled with new opportunities, continued growth, and limitless success for each and every one of you.

Sincerely,

Ajay Patel
President & CEO
Vancouver Community College

VCC’s Jennifer Gossen wins BCCIE Distinguished Leadership Award

Jennifer Gossen (pictured left), poses with other recipients of the 2023 BCCIE International Education Awards. Photo credit: BC Council for International Education

VCC is proud to share that Jennifer Gossen, Director of International Education, has won the 2023 BCCIE International Education Distinguished Leadership Award.
 
The award recognizes the unique and important accomplishments and contributions of an international educator who has effected change and leadership in the field of international education in a senior leadership position who has `led from behind' and whose work will have a lasting impact. 

Says Ajay Patel, VCC president & CEO, “This is a very well-deserved recognition of all Jennifer’s hard work and leadership. Jennifer was nominated by her own staff, which speaks volumes about her as leader at VCC and in the international education community. We are all very proud of the work Jennifer and her entire team in the International Education department do for VCC.”

In her role as Director of International Education, Jennifer has led the internationalization strategy of the college including increasing international programs, partners, enrolment, and student services. Supporting the international student journey is a focus of the international education team, and Jennifer says “We have such a strong team in international, and the work that we do supports the strategic priorities of the college and the goals of our students. It is a pleasure to lead such a high-functioning team.” 

The 14th annual BCCIE International Education Awards recognize the professionalism, dedication, and efforts of an exemplary group of experts and practitioners in the field of international education in British Columbia. Winners represent a broad range of leaders from all parts of the sector and who represent the best and brightest in our province.

Winners in all categories were announced at the BCCIE Awards banquet on June 27. 

Our International Education team is so proud of your leadership. Congratulations Jennifer Gossen! 

Music scholarship recipient's VCC experience

Johneil Viñas was the award recipient of the "Music Program Third Year Scholarship" in Fall 2022, and is graduating from VCC's Bachelor's Degree in Applied Music at VCC this Summer with a major in Drumset Contemporary and Jazz Performance. In a Q&A format, Johneil shared his experiences studying, working, and performing music in Vancouver.

Q: Why did you choose to study at VCC?

The music program at Vancouver Community College is one of the best in the province, providing strong support and practical experience to its students. VCC's music program has all state-of-the-art tools that ensure students’ success once they are done with their studies.

Q. What were some memorable experiences during your studies?

I have been able to experience playing with the New Orleans Ensemble, studying Jazz, conducting and singing with a choir, composing original music for singers and songwriters, learning the history of music, meeting and studying with classical students, and being involved in music productions, among others. I recently joined VCC’s Performance Week and played with the New Orleans Ensemble directed by Mr. James Danderfer, one of the best Jazz Clarinet Players in Vancouver. Here are short video recordings of my performance: Nightlife by James Danderfer and Jean de Fleur by Grant Green.

[With the New Orleans Ensemble - photo courtesy of Johneil Viñas]

Q. Tell us about your work experience in Vancouver.

I'm currently working as a part-time drums instructor at the School of Rock Vancouver. In this workplace, I have been able to meet the coolest bosses and nicest, most talented colleagues. I’m glad to be able to apply my musical knowledge and skills acquired from the program as well as nurture my passion for music.

[With the teachers at School of Rock Vancouver - photo courtesy of Johneil Viñas]

Q. What would you like to say to aspiring music students who might be considering VCC?

The student community at VCC is very encouraging and supportive. Everyone lifts up and helps each other, especially during back-to-back performances and whenever a student struggles in certain areas of the program. I highly recommend VCC's music program to all aspiring music students out there.

[With the Conducting class at VCC - photo courtesy of Johneil Viñas]

Start your music career in Vancouver by completing the Music Diploma (2 years) and continue with Bachelor of Applied Music (2 years) to pursue your bachelor's degree. Sign up for a Music Info Session to learn more, or apply now if you're ready!

Students will be required to have multi-factor authentication to access their VCC accounts

MFA is multi-step process used to confirm that it is actually you that is logging in with your VCC account. This verification is done using the Microsoft Authenticator app on your smartphone and is very easy to setup and use. MFA enhances the safety of your VCC account and minimizes the risk of it being compromised. 

You can find instructions, FAQs, a how-to video, and more support by logging into myvcc.ca/students.

Avoid any issues after April 3rs! It is recommended that students initiate the MFA process as soon as possible. Opt-in is available until April 3rd, after which MFA will be mandatory for accessing VCC accounts.

Feeling the winter blues? This resource can help!

Vancouver Community College (VCC) is pleased to announce a new partnership with Togetherall. Students at VCC can now access a clinically moderated mental health support resource where they can connect with a global community of peers with shared lived experiences. Togetherall is a safe and anonymous space in which students can benefit from an online peer-to-peer community by receiving and providing support 24/7. The initiative was made possible thanks in part to a generous contribution from Pacific Blue Cross Foundation. 

Supporting mental health and well-being is closely tied to VCC’s commitment to justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization (JEDI-d), all of which play major roles in our long-term strategic plan for the college. 

Togetherall is as an extension of VCC’s robust and continuously growing suite of mental health supports for VCC students. Last May, VCC launched our Mental Health and Well-being Framework which includes consultation from 1,500 employees and students and outlines how the college will promote and support mental health and well-being. In addition, VCC collaborated with other B.C. colleges and universities to produce a series of suicide prevention videos that speak directly to post-secondary students. 

Says VCC’s Associate Vice President, Student and Enrolment Services, Clayton Munro: 

“When we looked at the key commitments we’ve recently made to support the mental health and well-being of our college community, adding the Togetherall platform lines up extremely well with our renewed focus on community connectedness and increased levels of self-help resources.”

If and when a student is ready sign on, they can simply visit Togetherall and register using their student email address.

Read the full announcement on Togetherall’s website.

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Innovative pilot project helps VCC students “BeConfident” in job interviews

VCC student, Ahmed Mohsin holding the virtual reality headset he used to practice his job interview skills.

Participating in job interviews can be stressful. For Ahmed Mohsin, who is currently enrolled in Vancouver Community College's (VCC) Automotive Collision and Refinishing program, learning the skills to do the job was one thing. Impressing a potential employer in a job interview was another. He was eager to practice the communications skills that would help him land a job as an auto body technician once he graduates. 

He signed up to participate in VCC’s innovative virtual reality (VR) pilot project that uses a blend of artificial intelligence (AI) and VR as a way to practice job interview skills and to help students transition into the job market.   

“[It] allowed us to gain experience in giving job interviews without having the pressure of a real job on the line,” says Ahmed. 

The project was launched last fall after VCC and local software company Virtro received the exciting news from Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL) that they were the successful recipients of $335,000 in program development funding. The funding enabled the college to provide 200 students, like Ahmed, with an Oculus Quest 2 virtual reality headset pre-installed with two VR programs developed by Virtro: BeConfident and LincLingo. The programs generate thousands of different scenarios for students to master discipline-specific interview skills, practice communication skills, and ultimately, bridge the gap between classroom and the workplace. 

“CEWIL Canada is pleased to support innovative WIL experiences for students at Vancouver Community College where students have been able to receive financial support and recognition for their WIL experience,” says Charlene Marion, Director WIL at CEWIL Canada. “Funds such as these aim to eliminate barriers to WIL and increase access for all post-secondary students.”

The results of the pilot project were encouraging. The vast majority of students found the tool beneficial for working on interview skills and more than two-thirds of participants reported feeling less anxious about job interviews. Seventy-eight percent of participants expressed interest in having access to the tool before going to a real interview. 

Adds Ahmed, “I was faced with questions that I hadn’t come across before. [I]f it wasn’t for the [virtual reality] headset, I would not be able to answer the questions comfortably in a real-world situation. I was able to do all of this just from the comfort of my own home, which was super helpful.”

PREPARING FOR THE JOBS OF TOMORROW

According to the 2022 BC Labour Market Outlook, there will be one million job openings in the province during the next 10 years. The top two skills employers are looking for is active listening and speaking. This collaborative project focusses on building skills which enables students to feel more confident in their ability to communicate and listen. As a result, students will be able to transition into the labour market much faster.

“Knowing what to expect and being able to practice interview skills in a realistic and immersive environment is a huge confidence builder for students,” says Brett Griffiths, VCC’s Dean, School of Trades, Technology, and Design. “It also gives VCC and Virtro the opportunity to make improvements for future students and users. It’s a winning scenario for everyone involved and we’re grateful for our partnership with Virtro and support from CEWIL Canada that made this possible for all VCC students.”

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Follow us on Instagram to know more: www.instagram.com/vccinternational 

Click here for more information about the media release for this project.

Auto-retailer Dilawri Group fueled by giving back to the community

Last September, 2022, Vancouver Community College (VCC) was pleased to welcome back Dilawri Group at VCC’s Broadway campus to meet with VCC’s Automotive Service Technician International students and showcase some of the automotive brands Dilawri Group represents.

Established in 1985, Dilawri Group is a BC-based, family-owned automotive retailer. With more than 3,000 employees, it includes 76 franchised dealerships across Canada representing more than 35 automotive brands.

As part of their commitment to give back to the community, Dilawri Group partnered with VCC Foundation in 2018 to offer two scholarships for promising students in VCC’s Automotive Service Technician program. The scholarships support students who share Dilawri Group’s core values of passion for excellence, customer focus, teamwork, integrity, and a willingness to grow.

“We, at Dilawri Group of Companies, understand that our success comes from the community’s success,” said Surj Uppal, Regional Marketing Manager, Dilwari Group of Companies, BC Region. “This is why we are proud to partner with community pillars like VCC to create an environment where students and community benefit from partnerships such as ours.”

See more photos from the day on our Flickr album.

At the event, top of the line vehicles, such as a Porsche Targa, Mercedes Class-G, and Mercedes-Maybach S were on display in VCC’s state-of-the-art working garage. Students were able to inspect the cars, chat with Dilawri Group representatives, and learn more about luxury vehicle repair. As a special treat from Dilawri Group, White Spot’s Triple O’s On the Go food truck was on campus to serve lunch to VCC automotive students and instructors.

“We are grateful to the Dilwari Group for hosting this day for VCC’s students,” said Moira Gookstetter, Executive Director of VCC Foundation. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet Dilwari Group representatives, see the vehicles they represent, and make an impression on a potential future employer.”

Follow us on Social Media to know more international events: www.instagram.com/vccinternational

Holiday greetings from VCC president Ajay Patel

Dear VCC community,

In a few short weeks, we will be turning the page on this year and welcoming 2023. Before we break for the holidays, I would like to take this time to reflect on the past year and thank each of you for your valuable contributions.

There were many moments this year when I was filled with pride for our VCC community. From our students to faculty to staff, I saw so much dedication and hard work. There seemed to be a renewed purpose of learning, working and collaborating – and it has been exciting to see the rewards of our shared focus.

I want to thank our faculty for continuing to give our students a learning experience of the highest standard. To our staff and administrators I’d like to offer deep gratitude for your commitment to the college and its operations.

The world around us is changing quickly, but I am confident in how our VCC community will keep pace because of the care you show for each other. Let’s continue to support each other and make 2023 another memorable one for VCC.

Finally, however you choose to spend the holidays – with family or friends or new acquaintances – I hope it is true to your values, traditions and spirit. Celebrate safely. Be well. Take care of each other, especially those whose loved ones are absent or far away.

On behalf of VCC’s Board of Governors and the Senior Team, I wish you a restful and restorative holiday season. I look forward to seeing you in the new year.

With gratitude,

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College 

VCC Student Awards Fall 2022 recap

On Friday, December 9, VCC hosted the Fall 2022 Student Awards ceremonies. A total of 163 students received awards in the presence of family, friends, and donors. The ceremonies began with an opening prayer and territorial acknowledgment by Elder John Sam of the Odawa First Nation and a welcoming address by VCC President Ajay Patel.

“Many of the award recipients we are honouring have faced adversity and challenges, but persevered and found a way through,” said Patel. “Not only have they found success in their programs, but they’ve also shown leadership in the classroom and in the broader college community. Their accomplishments are nothing short of impressive.” 

– Ajay Patel, VCC President

The morning ceremony recognized student scholarship and award recipients from:

• School of Health Sciences
• School of Hospitality, Food Studies, and Applied Business
• School of Trades, Technology, and Design

The afternoon ceremony recognized student scholarship and award recipients from:

• Continuing Studies
• Division of Library, Teaching, and Learning Services
• School of Arts and Sciences (including Music)

Award recipients had the opportunity to thank their donor in person at a tea reception held after the official morning and afternoon presentation.

View morning ceremony photos here
View afternoon ceremony photos here

Each year, VCC Foundation selects one or more Outstanding Student Award recipient to highlight in a video feature. This fall’s spotlight is on Jewellery Art and Design student Janice Thompson, recipient of the Pyrrha Award for Indigenous Students and Corporate Paralegal student Jasmyn Civin, recipient of the Marie Wells Award.

VCC Student Awards would not be possible without the generous support of our many donors.

We gratefully acknowledge all our donors for their generosity which helps our students succeed in their educational journeys. 

Your support truly changes lives. Thank you.

Learn more about how you can help international students succeed!

VCC Fall 2022 convocation recap

Vancouver Community College’s (VCC) annual Fall convocation ceremony was held at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on Thursday, November 24, 2022. Over 1,142 VCC graduates from 59 programs crossed the stage to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Members of the Tsastu Stalqayu Coastal Wolf Pack led graduates, faculty, and the platform party into the theatre. Traditional Indigenous greeting by Elder Deanne George of the Tseil-Waututh Nation preceded addresses by VCC Board Chair Joey Hartman, VCC President & CEO, Ajay Patel, valedictorian Murdoch de Mooy, and the presentation of the graduates.

Two graduates were recognized for their outstanding achievements. The Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Inclusion, Democracy, and Reconciliation was awarded to Stuart Coleman, a graduate of the Architectural Technician Certificate program. The Governor General’s Academic Medal was awarded to Vanessa Leyva Iglesias a graduate of the Cosmetologist Diploma program.

The ceremony wrapped up with a speech from VCC Honorary Alumni Award recipient, businessman, and philanthropist, Mr. Brandt Louie, the chairman and CEO of the H.Y. Louie Group of Companies and chairman of London Drugs.

“Your hard-earned education doesn’t end today,” said Louie. “Now you have the opportunity to mentor and encourage others just starting out. You have the choice to play an active part in the community in very concrete ways. You have the choice to inspire others. Your education is something no one can ever take away from you. It is what will fuel your dreams and allow you to achieve great things.”

- Brandt Louie, Chairman of London Drugs, VCC honorary alumni

Watch a recording of the ceremony here.

View Convocation photos on Flickr here.

Congratulations to our VCC grads! Learn about the perks and benefits you now receive as VCC alumni.

Lunar New Year greetings from VCC president Ajay Patel

Dear VCC community, 

On Sunday, January 22, 2023, many members of the VCC community will celebrate the Lunar New Year. 

This year marks the Year of the Water Rabbit, and it is considered to be an auspicious year. According to Chinese astrology, the combination of the Rabbit sign and the Water element will bring good luck, prosperity and energy.  

The Year of the Water Rabbit encourages us to deepen our relationships and connections with others. By being open to communication, ideas, and possibilities, we can embrace the positive energy and unexpected opportunities represented by the Rabbit and accomplish great things in 2023. 

This year, VCC is proud to host Lunar New Year celebrations at both our Downtown and Broadway campuses on Monday, Jan. 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Hosted by Students’ Union of VCC and the International Education department, I invite everyone to take this opportunity to learn more about the rich culture and heritage of Asian communities and their significant contributions to our society. There will be food, refreshments, and a traditional Chinese lion dance. I hope to see many of you there! 

On behalf of the VCC Board of Directors and leadership team, I wish our students, employees and all those of Asian heritage in our college community a happy, healthy, and prosperous Lunar New Year! 

Warmly,

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College

VCC Spring 2021 Student Awards recap

On Friday, May 28, Vancouver Community College (VCC) was proud to celebrate the success, hard work, and achievements of students in a virtual Student Awards ceremony. The event was held on Zoom for donors and recipients, while friends and family were able to tune in through Facebook Live.

Elder Jean Wasegijig opened the ceremony with a territorial acknowledgment and welcome and was followed by remarks from VCC president and CEO Ajay Patel.  

"Twice a year, Student Awards are given to honour you – our students, for your hard work, commitment and lifelong learning path that you've chosen here. Pursuing a career or learning a new skill or a language during a pandemic is nothing short of remarkable, and I want each and every one of you to know that we are all proud of you." – Ajay Patel

Deans then presented the names and bios of award recipients from the following schools:

• School of Health Sciences
• School of Hospitality, Food Studies and Applied Business
• School of Trades, technology and Design
• Centre for Continuing Studies
• School of Instructor Education
• School of Arts and Sciences

Student Awards video feature

Each year, VCC Foundation selects one or more Outstanding Student Award recipients to highlight in a video feature. This spring, we shined the spotlight on Angela Mawbey, recipient of the Dental Reception Coordinator scholarship, and Beatrice Antica, recipient of the Student Success Team Award for Excellence.

Special music alumni performance

In past virtual ceremonies, a group of VCC Music alumni produce a rendition of classic hits such as Everyday People by Sly and the Family Stone. Many thanks to Georges Couling (keyboard, producer, and editor), Jimmy Baldwin (guitar), Catherine Hiltz (bass), Daniel Ruiz (drums), and Elaine Shepherd (vocals) for their interpretation of Ed Sheeran’s Photograph.

This Award ceremony could not have been done without the generous support from our many donors. Thank you for continuing to give the gift of giving. Learn more about how you can support VCC students in need.

Q&A with a VCC Award Recipient - Graphic Design student Vanessa Yu

Q&A with a VCC Award Recipient

Vanessa Yu, recipient of the Glenn Hyatt Memorial Scholarship for Excellence, June 2022

What do you like most about studying at VCC?

Studying at VCC is one of my favorite life experiences. People are kind and friendly. Going to VCC every day is always a new story to tell. It is conveniently located near the Skytrain, Vancouver Public Library, food trucks, city events and downtown cafes. I also like it when there’s filming going on in the area. You will never run out of things to do when you study at VCC!

What do you do in your spare time?

Whenever I have a spare time, I cycle. Vancouver is such a great place for bikers. The trails are really good. I also love going to groceries. I love to cook for my family and play with my nieces and nephew.

Photo credit: Vanessa Yu

Why did you choose to study graphic design?

I love arts and design! I majored in Interior Design and worked as a designer and visual merchandiser for major retailers in the Philippines. I wanted to get a formal education in Graphic Design to enhance my design skills, which will help me be globally competitive and updated with trends. I chose VCC because of its straight-to-the-point courses and hands-on training and projects.

How is your learning experience? How do you find your classmates, instructors and overall learning environment in the school?

I didn’t have a hard time blending in with my peers and instructors; they were all kind and friendly. The instructors are the best! They teach us all the things that we need to learn and equip us with skills to become a graphic designer. They are very patient and accommodating; they guide us in every step. I love everything about VCC – from the instructors and program, my peers, the classroom view, cafeteria food and the salon!

What excites you about the future?

I am looking forward to working in a design agency. I am excited about any design opportunity that I’ll come across. I also like volunteering in the community to give back.

Photo credit: Vanessa Yu - VCC classroom view

Interested in seeing Vanessa’s work? Follow her on Instagram @vanessayudesign!

VCC Student Awards Spring 2022 recap

Vancouver Community College (VCC) was pleased to host its first in-person Student Awards ceremonies in two years on Friday, June 3 at the Broadway campus event space. A total of 208 students received awards in the presence of family, friends, and donors. Award recipients had the opportunity to thank their donors in person at a tea reception after the official morning and afternoon award presentations. 

In addition to some entrance awards, there are many scholarship and award opportunities for international students when they begin their studies at VCC. We celebrate VCC students' achievements at the award ceremonies. This Spring, a total of 43 VCC international students received a total amount of $32,850 in scholarships and awards. 

Both awards ceremonies began with an opening prayer and territorial acknowledgment delivered by Elder Jean. VCC president and CEO Ajay Patel addressed the crowd with a welcome statement.

“We live in uncertain times. And challenging yourself to continue learning and working towards your goals is commendable in its own right,” said Patel. “All of you overcame challenges to get here. Know that we’re all very proud of you.”

Two new awards were established this year – the President’s Award for Leadership, which acknowledges a student who has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and the Zoro and Kelly Ann Mihajlovic Creative Award which is given to a talented graphic design student who also stands out as a positive human being.

Did you know that in addition to entrance scholarships, VCC students may also apply for different types of internal scholarships and awards . Talk to your instructor, they are also one step closer to the awards.

Check VCC's Flickr account for more pictures of the morning and afternoon award ceremonies.

VCC Student Awards are not possible without the generous support from our many donors. Thank you for continuing to give the gift of giving. Learn more about how you can support VCC students in need. 

VCC students participate in MICHELIN® Guide Vancouver announcement

Image courtesy of Destination Vancouver.

Vancouver Community College (VCC) was pleased to participate in the announcement for the MICHELIN® Guide Vancouver, the latest expansion of the MICHELIN Guide. The announcement was made at the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts (PICA) in front of local media and VIPs.

To showcase the next generation of culinary talent, students from the PICA and VCC’s School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts, collaborated on designing, preparing, and presenting a unique menu at today’s reception to celebrate the launch of the MICHELIN Guide Vancouver. The students were guided by Chef Matthew Kammerer, Executive Chef of the two Michelin-starred and Michelin Green Star restaurant The Harbor House Inn in Mendocino County.

“Thank you to Michelin and Destination Vancouver for inviting VCC to join in today’s announcement,” said Ajay Patel, VCC President and CEO. “I am so proud of VCC instructors Chef Hamid Salimian, Chef Karen Gin, and VCC’s culinary students for preparing today’s food with the guidance of Chef Matt Kammerer. VCC is committed to academic innovation that is responsive to student and employer needs. With the introduction of the MICHELIN Guide Vancouver, VCC students, who already benefit from VCC’s excellent partnerships with the industry, will now have the opportunity to work in Michelin-starred environments as well. 

“What an exciting opportunity for students to do their practicums and early career training in Michelin starred kitchens right in their own backyard,” added VCC instructor, Chef Hamid Salimian. “Vancouver has a dynamic and creative voice in sustainable farm (or sea) to table cuisine. Today is about Michelin's acknowledgement of what we have known for a long time, and now Vancouver's best-kept-secret as a world-class city for sustainable cuisine is no longer a secret. It is a very exciting day for young chefs in BC.”

Read the full press release from Destination Vancouver.

Watch the MICHELIN® Guide teaser trailer:

Media Release: VCC acquires hydrogen vehicle for student training

VANCOUVER – Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), along with their electric vehicle (EV) counterparts, are considered the wave of the future to combat climate change on the roads. Thanks to forward thinking by Vancouver Community College’s (VCC) Automotive Service Technician program, students will now be able to learn how to service and repair FCEVs in addition to EVs and fossil fuel vehicles.

In an arrangement with Toyota Canada, VCC took possession of one of the first FCEVs made for the Canadian market – the Toyota Mirai. Toyota is a pioneer of FCEVs, having first started working on fuel cell technology development in the early 1990s. FCEVs are powered by mixing hydrogen with oxygen in the air which creates the electricity that powers the vehicle. The only by-product emitted by its tailpipe is water, making it a zero-emission alternative to vehicles powered by fossil fuels.

Hydrogen as a clean energy alternative is supported at both the federal and provincial levels. In particular, the Province of B.C. has outlined how it plans to support climate change goals through its B.C. Hydrogen Strategy. As part of this strategy, FCEV adoption, as well as creating new jobs in the clean tech sector, are priorities.

This is where VCC steps in.

VCC’s Automotive Service Technology program oversees one of the largest working garages in the province and more than 600 students have graduated in the last two years alone. In the program, students learn how to diagnose, test, and repair vehicles using the latest technology.

Moreover, in 2021, VCC also became the first academic member to join Hydrogen BC, the regional branch of the Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA).

Acquiring the Toyota Mirai is VCC’s next step in ensuring its automotive service technician students are learning the latest technology and graduating with the job-ready skills that employers are looking for.

Quotes:

The Honourable Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation:
“Hydrogen is a key fuel to help B.C.’s transition to cleaner energy solutions, as we work toward meeting our legislated 2030-2050 greenhouse gas reduction targets. Vancouver Community College is training students to service and repair fuel cell electric vehicles, preparing students for good jobs of the future, and taking significant step to fight climate change.”

Andrew Mercier, Parliamentary Secretary for Skills Training:
“Our government is making sure people in B.C. are learning the skills they need for the jobs of tomorrow, helping our communities become more resilient and meeting our climate goals. This is excellent forward thinking shown by Vancouver Community College as we position students for success to land good-paying, long-term trades jobs.”

Stephen Beatty, Vice President, Corporate, Toyota Canada:
“We commend Vancouver Community College for having the foresight to provide B.C.’s future automotive service technicians with the training required to service the province’s growing fleet of hydrogen-powered FCEVs. As forward-thinking companies in BC continue to choose to decarbonize their high-use vehicle fleets with FCEVs like the Toyota Mirai, it’s vital that our dealerships have access to future technicians with the knowledge and experience required to service them.”

Ajay Patel, President and CEO, VCC:
“VCC seeks to be a leader in environmental stewardship, whether that is by ensuring our campuses have the infrastructure in place to meet sustainability goals or by providing ethical and modern learning opportunities for our students. We also know that according to B.C.’s Labour Market Outlook, auto service technicians are expected to be one of the most in-demand trades occupations in the province. It is essential that we work collaboratively with industry and government to align our programming so that VCC students receive the best training for the jobs of today and tomorrow.”

Lucy Griffith, Acting Dean, School of Trades, Technology, and Design, VCC:
“As FCEVs become more commonplace on the road, these vehicles will need to be serviced and repaired. VCC’s goal is to meet and adapt to the evolving needs of industry and consumers by ensuring students receive the most up-to-date training on current technologies. Starting in the fall term, students will be able to learn how FCEV technology works as part of our updated core curriculum in the Automotive Service Technician program.”

Learn more about VCC's Automotive Service Technology Diploma at an upcoming info session. Questions about how to apply? Check our website for details, or book a one-on-one international advising session.

Q&A with a VCC Award Recipient

Good luck to VCC's Skills Canada Nationals 2022 competitors

Vancouver Community College (VCC) is thrilled to welcome the Skills Canada National Competition 2022 (SCNC) to Vancouver on May 26 and 27.   

For the first time since 2019, the event will be hosted partially in person, with the post-secondary and the Team Canada Selection Category competitions being held at the Vancouver Convention Centre and open to the public.

This year’s SCNC welcomes over 300 competitors from all regions of Canada who will participate in over 35 skilled trade and technology challenges. Additionally, more than 200 secondary school competitors will compete virtually across the country. 

MORE PHOTOS >

Go VCC!

Join us in cheering on these outstanding VCC students who advanced to nationals following  in provincial competitions held in April 2022:

Aesthetics

Post-secondary

• Rosa Maria Donaire Champagne
• Shohrai Jobin

Autobody Repair 

Secondary

•  Tyler Shine

Automobile Technology 

Post-secondary

•  Tyler Smith

Secondary

•  Rowan Fletcher

Baking

Post-secondary

• Jireh Dunol

Secondary

• Leila Pourshahriary

Car Painting

Post-secondary

•  Theodore Abril

Secondary

•  Ali Al Abedi

Cooking

Post-secondary

• Sean Levitate 

Hairstyling

Post-secondary

• Brooke Martin

Secondary

• Kyra Mohammed

Follow and support Team VCC

Visit out the Skills/Compétences Canada YouTube channel to watch the event livestream including opening and closing ceremonies, highlights from the virtual competitions, and more!

Tune in to International Instagram and Facebook Group to send your support to our students using the hashtags #myVCC and #SCNC2022. Check back for updates on our medallists and go VCC!

Go International students!! 

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Is your future in the skilled trades? Learn all about training and apprenticeship oportunities at an upcoming free information session.

New VCC Marketing Technology diploma gives students an edge in CRM

When Vancouver Community College (VCC) Marketing Technology department head Jeremy White looks back on his first job out of business school, he realizes how little he’d been taught about the technical side of marketing, and specifically customer relationship management (CRM) software. 

“When I started, I didn’t even know what a CRM was,” says Jeremy, despite his new master’s degree in business administration. In the years since, while Jeremy has become a marketing technology expert, he still notices that most people in CRM-focused roles start with no hands-on experience and must learn it all on the job. 

This is why, when VCC began developing a new marketing diploma in early 2021, Jeremy and his team recommended going beyond standard curriculums to provide hands-on training in marketing technologies including the industry-leading CRM platform, Salesforce. 

In short, CRMs track and organize every interaction a business may have with a client or potential customer, allowing the company to analyze, prioritize, and personalize sales and marketing efforts quickly and easily. According to Jeremy, in today’s business world, “CRMs form the backbone of most organizations.” 

While students in a standard two-year marketing program would sit through numerous theory-based courses in accounting, math, and economics, VCC's industry consultations revealed that today’s employers simply want grads to have more job-ready technical skills. As such, our new diploma was designed with condensed theoretical courses and additional software-based certifications.

“When it comes to configuring a CRM, it’s more like a skilled trade than anything else,” says Jeremy. “It’s actually a great fit for VCC.”

In addition to preparing students for roles in CRM administration, VCC’s Marketing Technology students learn in-demand skills in Google Adwords, ecommerce, analytics, marketing automation, and finish with a portfolio-worthy capstone project.

Learn more about the program and apply now to join VCC’s next generation of marketing technology experts.

Free, 24/7 counselling service supports student mental health

If you’re experiencing any difficulties with your mental health, the best and smartest thing to do is to ask for help. 

Mental illness can take many forms and differ from person to person, and it’s natural to feel anxious, sad, or insecure in various circumstances of life. However, when uncomfortable feelings stick around and begin to interfere with your relationships, work, or school, talking to someone is an important first step to stopping things from getting worse.

Getting help with your mental health is a sign of strength and intelligence, not weakness. Like any other medical issue, mental illness needs treatment, and for post-secondary students in B.C., free help is available 24/7.

Here2Talk is a mental health counselling and referral service available to all B.C. post-secondary students. The service offers confidential, free, single-session services by app, phone, or online chat, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How to access Here2Talk

B.C. post-secondary students can access professional counselling services by:

• Downloading the Here2Talk app
• Visiting here2talk.ca
• Calling toll free 1.877.857.3397 or direct 604.642.5212 

Students calling from outside Canada can also dial 604.642.5212 (international calling charges may apply). Phone services are available in additional languages upon request.

The Here2Talk service is operated by LifeWorks, and can support students dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, pressure to perform, crises, racism, and relationships. Counsellors will also be equipped to refer students to local resources in their communities.

VCC Counselling Services

At VCC, counselling services are available free of charge to all registered students and applicants. VCC’s counselling team consists of trained, professional counsellors who are able to support you in the management of personal issues that may affect your academic performance or personal well-being.

Counselling reception for both VCC campuses can be reached by calling 604.871.7000, option 2.

VCC Counselling office hours

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• Other helpful links:

• VCC International Advising Services
• VCC Career Guidance
• VCC Counselling Services
• VCC Financial Aid
• VCC Indigenous Education and Community Engagement
• Contact VCC International Department

VCC unveils Mental Health and Well-being Framework

Extensive consultation garnered 1,500 responses from VCC employees and students

Created in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association British Columbia Division (CMHA BC) and Healthy Minds | Healthy Campuses, as well as guided by VCC’s Mental Health and Well-being Steering Committee, the framework garnered over 1,500 responses from members of the college community by way of focus groups, dialogues, and a campus-wide survey. The framework aims to guide the college’s well-being efforts in promoting mental health for the next five years (2022-2026).  

“We are fortunate to work with CMHA BC and Healthy Minds | Healthy Campuses to develop a campus-wide, systemic, and holistic approach to mental health and well-being,” says Clayton Munro, VCC Associate Vice President, Student and Enrolment Services and steering committee co-chair. “The framework sets the foundation for our college community to think, speak, and act in appropriate and constructive ways regarding mental health.”

“The Vancouver Community College Mental Health and Well-being Framework holds promise for a transformative approach to promoting individual and collective community mental health and well-being,” adds Jonny Morris, CEO of CMHA BC. “The notions of influencing the conditions that affect well-being, collaborating across boundaries and differences, and democratizing who can assist when someone is in distress all inspire a new starting place for such an important endeavour.”

The framework also coincides with VCC’s signing of the Okanagan Charter, a landmark agreement that unites post-secondary institutions in a collective commitment to become campuses that promote health and well-being. VCC joins more than 30 other colleges and universities who have adopted the charter. 

“VCC strives to innovate, engage, and excel for years to come, and this hinges on us caring for and supporting each other well,” says Ajay Patel, VCC President and CEO. “I applaud VCC’s Mental Health and Well-being Steering Committee and the representatives from the Students’ Union of VCC, CUPE and the VCC Faculty Association for their timely and thoughtful work on this project, as well as the community members who offered responses through surveys and dialogues.”

Over the next five years, VCC’s Mental Health and Well-being Steering Committee will lead the college in implementing the framework and monitoring VCC’s progress.

One of the first initiatives being implemented is the college’s participation in CMHA’s Not Myself Today program which aims to transform mental health in the workplace. Since launching the initiative this spring, 300 employees have attended informational sessions and 40 employees joined as Not Myself Today Ambassadors.

“We have a communal responsibility to foster a safe and supportive workplace at VCC,” says Elaine Pedersen, VCC Manager, Organizational and People Development and steering committee co-chair. “Launching the Not Myself Today initiative supports the Framework’s commitment to building capacity and literacy around mental health.” 

Download a copy of the VCC Mental Health and Well-being Framework. [PDF]

Join VCC’s annual mental health and well-being event, this year titled Connecting with Compassion and Empathy, on Thursday, May 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students, staff, family, and community members are invited to drop into one or more of the many virtual wellness workshops running throughout the day. 

The Mental Health and Well-being project is generously supported by funding from B.C.’s Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions administered by CMHA BC under the partnered initiative of Healthy Minds | Healthy Campuses.

About VCC

VCC has been inspiring students to reach their career and educational goals for over 55 years, offering post-secondary training in over 140 programs including bachelor's degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships. With two campuses located Downtown and in East Vancouver, students receive hands-on instruction in culinary arts, business, design, health sciences, hospitality management, transportation trades, music, and more. Learn more at vcc.ca.  

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Media contact:

Jen Hill
Manager, Communications
604.828.0974
jehill@vcc.ca

VCC fashion to hit the runway at Vancouver Fashion Week 2022

VANCOUVER – Twelve students from Vancouver Community College's (VCC) fashion program will be showing their designs at an in-person runway show on Thursday, April 7 at 5 p.m. as part of Vancouver Fashion Week (VFW) Fall/Winter 2022. The student grad showcase is the culmination of two years’ hard work in VCC’s intensive, hands-on Fashion Design and Production diploma program.  

To prepare for the show, each student explored their creative inspiration through the technical skills they learned at VCC. The result are 12 unique collections that range from lingerie to bridal to outerwear to fiber art and everything in between. Some of the themes and inspiration found in the collections include Cyberfest, Red Light District, and Futures Rewritten.

"I really went out of my comfort zone to create these designs. I wanted to go for something different that is not my style. I worked hard to make it high quality with a visual impact," said our International student Bhagya Shree.

"This isn’t the first time the students are showcasing their talent to the world," says VCC Fashion Program Coordinator Andrea Korens. Throughout the first year of the program, students create products under the label "Colure" that are carried at boutiques around the city. After only six weeks in school, their first item, usually a tote bag, shows up for sale in a local boutique.

"Being on the runway, though, is different," says Andrea. "It showcases the more than 135 hours the students have spent designing, drafting and constructing a collection that is an expression of themselves. It’s their moment to shine and to showcase all they have learned at VCC."  

Year after year, VCC fashion students continue to thoroughly impress the industry and inspire the public at Vancovuer Fashion Week.

Our international student Setayesh Amannejad used crystal hand beading techniques and unconventional augmentations on traditionally draped silhouettes. It sounds lovely and will look beautiful on the runway on April 7.

Meet VCC’s student designers: www.vcc.ca/fashionshow

About VCC Fashion  

For over 30 years, VCC fashion programs have remained the best in B.C. VCC’s Fashion Design and Production Diploma program prepares students for the real-world fashion industry by mimicking a fast-paced production process while teaching fundamental skills. Self-directed garment creation allows students to hone in on their craft and personal sartorial interests. VCC Fashion offers a supportive space for our students to innovate, create and develop.   

Vanvisa: outstanding alumnus from Culinary Arts Diploma

In the kitchen, Vancouver Community College (VCC) Culinary Arts Diploma alumnus Vanvisa Sataglamp embraces every opportunity she can. In her life and work, she’s already moved overseas, learned a new language, and cooked in some of Vancouver’s top establishments – but it’s clear her culinary rise has only just begun.

Growing up in Thailand, Vanvisa was always fascinated by food and cooking. Yet while her mother worked as a baker, formal culinary arts training was uncommon and expensive, and prepared food typically came from street stalls, not restaurants.

Following a more traditional path, Vanvisa completed a bachelor’s degree in business accounting and began working in offices. Within a few years, however, Vanvisa was drawn back to her dream of cooking as well as travelling overseas. In 2016, she came to Vancouver for the first time with a temporary visa to work at a local Thai restaurant.

Vanvisa says she chose Vancouver for its mild winter weather. “I knew I was going to have culture shock,” she says. “I didn’t want to have weather shock too!”

The weather must have suited her fine, because Vanvisa quickly returned to study culinary arts as an international student at VCC, a school that came highly recommended in the local restaurant industry. 

A delicious balance

As a woman in her mid-thirties, Vanvisa says she appreciated Canada’s openness to career re-training as well as the wide diversity of students at VCC. “Some classmates were older and some younger than me. They didn’t discriminate for age or gender. Everyone was the same in the kitchen,” she says. 

When asked what she likes most about the culinary industry, Vanvisa’s answer may surprise some – or not, considering her business school background. “I love the time management,” she says. “Time is a limited resource in the kitchen. Each task takes a different amount of time and you can’t replay it.”

Welcome to the family

It’s been an exciting year for Vanvisa. In Spring 2020, she received VCC’s Mueller Family Culinary Arts Award recognizing her hard work, passion for food, and positivity in the face of challenges. In the summer, she appeared as the face of VCC’s Savour the VCC Effect advertising campaign. In November 2021, Vanvisa graduated with her Culinary Arts Diploma, was named valedictorian, and delivered a heartfelt speech to the entire graduating class in a language she’d only recently learned.

“I tell international students you don’t need to be a native speaker,” she says. “Don’t be afraid; you can adapt!”

After graduating, Vanvisa had no trouble finding work in B.C.’s rapidly recovering hospitality industry, and she is grateful to VCC instructor Hamid Salimian for his recommendation which landed her a job at one of Vancouver’s top hotels, the Fairmont Pacific Rim. 

As she continues to expand her culinary experience, Vanvisa says she’s continually impressed to find that VCC is highly recognized, and our culinary grads are everywhere. “Most of my coworkers, even my sous chef graduated from VCC,” she says. “It’s like a big family. It makes me so proud.”

Vanvisa's Journey at VCC and Beyond: A Q&A with Vanvisa

In a recent interview with Vanvisa about her study journey at VCC and after graduation, Vanvisa shared her thoughts about her experience at VCC. 

Congratulations on your graduation from VCC, how do you feel about graduating from VCC as a Valedictorian?

I feel extremely honoured to be able to address the entire convocation by sharing my experiences and some words of encouragement for the graduation class. I did not imagine that an international student would be able to do so, and I really appreciate the opportunity provided to me.

How was your study? Did you have a good time?

I love my studies at VCC! Even though I had to work in the evening and went to classes early the next morning, I still wanted to go to class every day to learn new skills. I also enjoyed learning together with my classmates – Canadian students and international students from different parts of the world. It’s great to learn from different cultures.

What do you like the most about the Culinary Arts Diploma program at VCC?

I’m currently working at the Fairmont Hotel, and the state-of-the-art facilities remind me so much of VCC. I was really prepared well to be able to work right after graduation. I love the on-campus training facilities, where we were learning and practicing with real-world working experiences.

You've landed 3 full-time jobs. Was it hard to find a job?

It was not hard at all. My lovely instructors also recommended me to jobs. Because of my part-time and volunteer experiences, as well as instructors’ recommendations, I was able to receive job offers very easily.

Would you recommend VCC to future students? Why?

I strongly recommend VCC to international students. It is not hard to study at VCC and become successful, as long as you are committed and put in the work. Studying at VCC is the best choice I’ve made, and I hope other international students will also do the same!

How was your VCC experience?

At the beginning of my program, I was worried that two years of school would pass slowly. But I enjoyed my time at VCC so much, and I can’t believe it’s already over. Many lovely memories will stay with me forever. Being inspired by the instructors that encourage me to be Red Seal Chef, and the opportunity to volunteer at prestigious events like the Bacchanalia Wine Festival Gala Dinner at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. This wonderful opportunity is a great reference for me when I apply for a job. Moreover, I have connected with so many VCC graduates from VCC after I graduated from VCC. Those are made me feel VCC is my second home. The knowledge, skills, and experiences I gained from VCC have made me feel ready to achieve my dream. This experience has motivated me to continue to advance in this incredible industry. VCC is a well-recognized college in the Culinary industry. Thank you to all of my instructors, a donation from the Mueller Family, and the steadfast support from the Culinary Arts department, and VCC as a whole. Choosing to study at VCC is the best choice for me ever and I am so proud to be a part of the VCC Community.

Feed your passion. Apply now to Culinary Arts Diploma at VCC.

VCC Hospitality Management Diploma program learning experience

 

Alyssa Erline, a 2nd-year student of Hospitality Management Diploma, is sharing her inspirations for her time studying at VCC.

 

 

Do you have a morning routine to get inspired before starting your classes?
I can say that I am not a morning person but if I have early classes (between 8-9 AM), I set the alarm 1 hour before the class starts. I eat breakfast and look at my planner to review what I needed to do on that day. I make sure that everything is organized in my workspace and have my notebook ready to take notes during classes.

 

 

Where is your favorite place in Vancouver?
It is a little hard to pick just one favorite place in Vancouver because Vancouver is a great city and has good places to visit. I would say the Vancouver Public (Central) Library is one of my favorite places. I feel relaxed and focused when studying there. It is the biggest library that I have been to. The best part of it is the top floor where you can see the great view of the city.

 

 

 

Why did you choose to study Hospitality Management? What is the best part of your day during classes?
I fell in love with Hospitality Industry when I took a Bachelor’s degree of Hospitality back in my home country. I want to broaden my knowledge and skills in this industry that’s why I decided to study Hospitality Management Diploma in VCC. For me, Hospitality is unique, creative and flexible.

I am in term 3 now, so I have some classes on campus and some online. My best part is when we go to school and do cooking classes in Food Production Principles. We have the chance to get creative in our dishes. Meeting and interacting with the instructor and my classmates are one of my favorites during classes too.

 

 

What do you like most about studying at VCC so far? 
Studying at VCC makes you feel challenged and committed to the program. Instructors train the students on what it's like to be in the real world so that if we face consequences or problems on the way, or after we graduate, we already know how to deal with it.

 

 

 

 

What inspires you at VCC?
My instructors (from term 1 until now) and the Hospitality Department team are willing to help us and support us,  which inspires me at school. They are always there for us especially if we are struggling. I am also lucky that most of my classmates are friendly and very helpful as well.

 

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Learn more about VCC's Hospitality Management Diploma at an upcoming info session. Questions about how to apply? Check our website for details, or book a one-on-one international advising session.

 

President’s message: Expect a return to campus in September 2021

A message from VCC president Ajay Patel

Dear college community,

I’m pleased to share that on March 8, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training Anne Kang announced that the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), Dr. Bonnie Henry advised all B.C. post-secondary institutions to begin planning for a return to safe, on-campus teaching and learning in September 2021.

“I’m encouraged by Dr. Henry’s advice that a return to in-person instruction can be done safely this fall for all students, staff, and faculty. In fact, it’s important to do so for people’s well-being,” said Minister Kang. 

This announcement is an outcome of the demonstrated leadership of the post-secondary sector in responding to COVID-19, including adopting new health and safety protocols and quickly adapting to remote learning. It is an exciting and eagerly anticipated step forward in our journey together through the pandemic.

What happens now

While this is encouraging news, please keep in mind that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over, and we must continue to follow all active health guidelines in order to realize this goal.

Looking ahead to September, VCC's Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) will immediately convene a Campus Recovery Working Group to ensure a safe, robust, and comprehensive process for returning to on-campus activities that adheres to the province’s Go-Forward guidelines [PDF].

It is important to note that VCC has continued to operate essential learning activities safely on campus during the pandemic, and we have every confidence that, over the next six months, we will be able to plan for a safe return in the fall.

As this is new information, the EOC will share plans and details as they become available.  

Let’s do this together

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a difficult and stressful time for everyone, including VCC students, faculty, and staff. This past year has challenged all of us in ways we could never have expected. We know that young adults have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic — as evidenced by worsening mental health, increased financial instability, and concerns over diminished future prospects.

The safe return to VCC campuses will benefit everyone’s health and well-being. That’s why it is vital that we resume delivery of our programs and robust educational experiences for our students.  

Many students, faculty, and staff are eager to return to campus, while others may be feeling a bit anxious. Please be assured that at every step, we will be working with Dr. Henry and all our partners to make sure the right measures are in place to keep people safe.

A return to on-campus learning is excellent news for VCC, as well as for the economic health and strength of our communities and province. We need to get back to doing what we do best: delivering innovative, experiential learning for life.

VCC has shown that we can do amazing work in difficult times. In the year ahead, we will continue to do so. On behalf of the VCC Board of Governors, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and admiration to all VCC employees and students for your hard work and perseverance during the past year. Brighter days are ahead.

Best wishes,  

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College

Career FAQ: CAD & BIM Technicians Diploma

Through VCC's CAD & BIM Technicians Diploma, students develop the Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) skills to work as professional drafting technologists or technicians.

What do drafting technicians do?

• create 3D models and technical drawings for the construction industry
• work in an office environment
• work closely with architects, engineers and fabricators

Where do VCC graduates find employment in Vancouver?

• Structure Craft
• Associated Engineering
• McElhanney
• SNC-Lavalin
• Mott MacDonald
• RJC
• Glotman Simpson
• And many more!

How much do drafting technicians make?

• Annual Median Salary in B.C.: $62,568
• Starting wage: $20 to 27 per hour

What specialties can students learn at VCC?
Students can choose TWO specialties from the following. More details about the specialities can be found on the program webpage.

• Architectural
• Civil / Structural
• Mechanical Engineering
• Steel Construction Modelling

What are the admissions requirements?

• Grade 12 graduation
• IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent
• Math 11 

More Information about this program?

• Check out the program flyer
• View the details of the program
• Watch a short video
• Join an Info Session

Ready to apply? Check our website for details about next steps. Have questions? Send us an email, or book a one-on-one international advising session. 

VCC Auto Collision and Refinishing student's online learning experience

As part of VCC's Automotive Collision and Refinishing Diploma program, students write weekly journal to reflect on their learning progress. Read the journal written by Chirag Mansuri, a VCC international student who started in this program in Fall 2020, where he shares his thoughts and experiences about his learning journey at VCC.

'I am writing this article to just indicate basic fundamental of getting help from international college for students who study in foreign territories. 

As an international student I was so worried about studying abroad, because I was going to start from scratch in a new country where I never been before, and on other hand the environment as well as the culture was going to be completely new and unique for me. As far as studying abroad is concerned, it is so challenging for international students. New environment and culture bring a lot of effects on learning abroad as compared to studying native place. But there are many colleges overseas who offer assistance in order to provide a variety of support to the students such as getting to know you local culture, housing, counselling services, medical services, employment programs, tutoring in academic skills and career help etc. Vancouver community college is one of those colleges where students can get access to these services. Students get to know many things along with their specific curriculum. Instructors and other college staff are so well educated, trained and friendly to everyone, especially to the international students who might be feeling alone studying abroad.

Students come with many confusions and doubt to study abroad but eventually due to excellent help from college like VCC, the students settle and melt themselves quickly in the new country and culture. VCC education is quite accessible for each student who studies there, it helps them to begin to reach their personal goals in their career with flexibility of their education system and professional training. After training the students, they give opportunities to international students to work on campus to deal with other new international students. By doing so they gain a good experience to work for other employers or so.

In summary, learning at Vancouver Community College is so smart, efficient, handy and skillful for students as regards to reaching their career objectives for future perspectives.' 

VCC's Automotive Collision and Refinishing Diploma is offered three times a year. Apply soon while applications are accepted!

VCC alumni students share their successful career stories

Our alumni student Kayla from Jewellery Art and Design Diploma

After graduating from VCC's Jewellery Art and Design Diploma, Kayla Guo has worked hard to establish herself as a jewellery designer, build connections with clients and colleagues, and accumulate an impressive array of design experiences.

Kayla's journey in the jewellery design industry started at Artina’s Jewellery shop, where she learned extensively about handcrafted jewellery from over a hundred of some of Canada’s most acclaimed artists. Kayla particularly enjoyed discovering the stories about the pieces crafted by indigenous West Coast carvers. While working at Artina’s, Kayla picked up a second job at MJ Jewellers, a prestigious and well-regarded custom design jewellery store specializing in high-end handmade jewellery for over 30 years. It was at MJ Jewellers that Kayla was able to really start exploring her creativity and fulfilling her dream of becoming a jewellery designer. She soon moved into a full-time position at MJ Jewellers, and is still working there today.

Kayla works with goldsmiths, stone setters, and suppliers, but finds it most rewarding to work closely with clients to bring their design ideas to life. Over the past two years, Kayla has been responsible for some truly inspirational jewellery designs, including: a 20 Karat sapphire bangle appraised at approximately $250,000; a unique moonstone, sapphire, and diamond pendant in the shape of a jellyfish; a redesigned frame for a heritage shell cameo. It is, however, the sentimental designs that resonate with Kayla the most. Kayla will never forget the experience of designing a heart-shaped pendant for a client whose son had past away.

Kayla looks forward to continuing on her career path as a jewellery designer and touching the lives of many more people along the way.

Learn more about the program

For more information about the Jewellery Art and Design Diploma program, attend a VCC program information session, or speak with a VCC International Student Advisor.

Let's connect

Follow VCC International Education on Instagram and Facebook Group to stay up to date on college news such as campus closures, stories and announcements. Feel free to send us messages and questions, or share your own photos and stories using the hashtag #vccinternational.

Career FAQ: Jewellery Art and Design Diploma

VCC Jewellery classroom picture from Instagram: @vccjewellery

What do VCC graduates do?

• Self-employed Jeweller
• Jewellery Retail Salesperson 
• Jewellery Appraiser
• Jewellery Finisher
• Jewellery Designer
• Goldsmiths for custom design in gold and diamonds

Where do VCC graduates find employment in Vancouver?

• Cavalier Gastown
• Era Design (founded by a VCC alumni)
• Juvelisto (founded by a VCC alumni)
• Kara Yoo Jewelry (founded by a VCC alumni)
• Pyrrha
• Wolf Circus
• Many graduates are self-employed.

VCC Jewellery alumni Juliana Jara working on Ragnar Jewellers - Instagram: @julianajara

What is the salary range of VCC students and alumni?

• $20 to $40 per hour (average $27 per hour)

How does VCC connect students to employment opportunities?

• Potential employers are invited to VCC Jewellery Graduation Exhibition and Gala.
• More practice time spent on digital design, 3D printing, and other skills to increase employability.
• Employers often send job postings directly to VCC to hire students.

What are the admission requirements?

• Grade 12 graduation
• IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0) or equivalent
• Portfolio Review and Interview

Other useful information about the program

• Check out the program flyer
• View the details of the program
• Watch a quick video
• Join an Info Session
• Browse the photo album with students' work in 2019 and 2020
• Student awards donated by local businesses from $300 to $1000
• VCC Jewellery Department Leader Karin Jones is featured in Vancouver Art Gallery

VCC Jewellery student Raquel Ale made this gorgeous necklace - Instagram: @raquelale

Career FAQ: Automotive Collision and Refinishing Diploma

Auto trades are one of the top demand trades in our province (B.C.). Check some frequently asked questions about career opportunities and how VCC prepares international students in Automotive Collision and Refinishing Diploma for employment.

Image: @VCCautobody Instagram

What type of work may be expected?

• Detailing: interior/exterior cleaning
• Refinishing Prep (sanding, masking, priming)
• Bodywork: removing installing parts, sheet metal repair, dent repair, welding
• Autoglass: removing/installing

Where do VCC graduates work in Vancouver?

• Automind Collision
• Boyd Autobody & Glass
• Craftsman Collision
• Kirmac Collision and Autoglass
• No.1 Collision Group
• Richmond Autobody

What is the salary range?

• Starting Hourly Wage: $15 to $18 per hour
• Annual Median Salary: $53,141

Image: @VCCautobody Instagram

How does VCC prepare students for employment?

• Theory and practical training at VCC's Auto Shop
• Resume building, mock interviews, and job searching skills
• Instructors connect students to part-time and full-time jobs.

What are students' experiences in this program?

• Check out some international students winning the Spring 2020 award in BMW scholarship
• View the details of the program
• Watch a short video
• Read about student’s online learning testimonial

Image: @VCCautobody Instagram

VCC restaurants reopening, Chef's Table 2021 - BC Vaccine Card requirements

BC Vaccine Card required

Starting Monday, Sept. 13, JJ's Restaurant and The Bistro at VCC’s Downtown campus require guests to meet the province's BC Vaccine Card requirements. JJ's is open for lunch reservations and walk-ins. The same regulations apply to VCC's Chef's Table pop-up kitchen events running three evenings per week during September. The Bistro opens on Sept. 21

Until Sept. 26, both restaurants will accept the printed proof of vaccination from a pharmacy or vaccination clinic if supplied with BC government ID.

Exempted service outlets

VCC's cafeterias and Seiffert Market, popular for its daily fresh-baked goods, are exempt from BC Vaccine Card requirements.

VCC’s Salon and Spa, which provides competitively-priced hairstyling and esthetics, is also exempt from BC Vaccine Card requirements but will be requiring customers to wear face masks at all times. Services are by appointment only.

VCC's Dental Clinic is open for weekday appointments. For dental hygiene services, please call the receptionist at 604-443-8499 and schedule a 45-minute screening appointment.

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Chef's Table 2021

See what Vancouver is saying about VCC's Chef's Table!

Vancouver Sun
Restaurant Review: The Chef’s Table gets an A for food
Chef’s Table at Vancouver Community College offers Michelin quality food.

Good Life Vancouver
Chef Hamid Salimian’s VCC Students Deliver A Tantalizing Meal

Follow us on Social Media to learn more about Events and News for International Students!

Career FAQ: Dental Technology Sciences Diploma

VCC is the only public post-secondary institution in B.C. offering a Dental Technology Sciences Diploma. Students learn traditional and digital technologies used in the design and fabrication of dental restorative prostheses, orthodontic appliances, and implant-supported restorations to work as professional and licensed Dental Technicians.

What do dental technicians do?

• Design and make dental devices like crowns and bridges, dentures, orthodontics, and sports and night guards

Where might VCC graduates find employment?

• There are well over 200 registered dental laboratories in British Columbia. Most laboratories are in Metro Vancouver, and many on Vancouver Island and in the interior regions of the province.
• Laboratory sizes can range from a one-person operation to corporations employing more than 200 persons.

How does VCC connect students to employment opportunities?

• This program includes a 15-week external practicum during the 5th Semester.
• Students are placed in commercial laboratories with invaluable experiential learning, and the placement provides an excellent opportunity to develop a network of potential employers.
• Employers reach out to the VCC in search of possible employees, as there is a shortage of skilled dental technicians in our province.

How much do VCC graduates make?

• New graduate: $20 - $21 per hour
• Alumni: $25 – $40 per hour
• Many VCC alumni become supervisors and Laboratory Owners with more earnings.
• Annual Median Salary in B.C.: approximately $50,000

What are some examples of recent job opportunities as of September 2021?

• Dental Technician: $23.60 per hour
• Dental Technician: $20 - $25 per hour
• Dental Laboratory Assistant: $28 per hour

What are the admissions requirements?

• Grade 12 graduation
• IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0), or Duolingo 105, or equivalent
• Human Biology 12 with a C+
• One of the following with a C+ grade: Chemistry 11, Math 11 or Physics 11
• Portfolio
• Qualified applicants will be required to have an interview with VCC

More Information about this program?

• Program Flyer
• Program Details
• Short video
• Online Program Info Session
• Graduate Employment Outcome – 100% employment rate!
• Georgia Straight Article: VCC provides grads with employment opportunities.

Interested in applying to VCC to begin your study journey in Canada? Book a 15-minute Zoom session with an International Student Advisor to learn more.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook group to learn more about the International news.

Career FAQ: Cosmetology Diploma

VCC is the only public institution in Metro Vancouver offering a Cosmetology Diploma. Here's more information about how our students are getting hired, what types of work they do, and how they are supported throughout their programs and job-seeking journeys.

What type of work is expected?

• Manicure, pedicure, specialized facial treatments, waxing or lash extensions
• Haircuts, hair colouring, chemical texture services, shampooing, and styling

Where do VCC graduates find employment in Vancouver?

• JW Marriott Hotel, Beverly’s on 4^th, Willow stream, Wild orange, Spa Time, Remedy Wellness and Spa, Zinc Salon, Lure Salon, Filomena Salon, Beehive Hair Lounge, Cheveux Boutique, Suki salons, and more

Photo from VCC Cosmetology student's Instagram: @lisa.wang57

What are some examples of position titles?

• Esthetician, Education or Product Customer Support Representative, Make-Up Specialist, Body Massage Technician, Medical Esthetician, Spa Manager, Spa Business Consultant, Esthetics Instructor, Spa Coordinator
• Assistant, Apprentice, Junior Stylist, Graduate Stylist, Stylist, Senior Stylist, Colourist, Salon Manager, Salon Owner, Barber, Salon Receptionist, Hairstylist Instructor/Educator

Photo from VCC Cosmetology student's Instagram: @sam.beautysalon

What is the salary range of VCC students and alumni?

• Hourly wage: $16.52 for Esthetician and $16.41 for Hairstylists
• Additional gratuities between 15% and 30%
• Additional commission for product sales between 10% and 20%

How does VCC prepare students for employment?

• Students practice customer service skills in VCC salon/spa by consulting with clients, and making recommendations under teacher supervision. Students also take turns running the reception desk, answering phone calls, booking appointments, and selling products.
• VCC arranges guest speaker sessions, from salon/spa owners and product companies, to share industry insights, updates and product information with students.
• Students learn to create resumes and cover letters.
• Students practice entrepreneurship skills with business plan projects.
• Many VCC students are hired through their practicum.

What are the English entrance requirements?

• IELTS 5.5 (no band less than 5.0), or equivalent

Other useful information about the program

• Check out the program flyer
• View more details about this program
• Watch a quick video of VCC’s salon and spa
• Follow VCC Salon and Spa on Facebook and Instagram
• Join an Info Session

Check out VCC Cosmetology Diploma student's posts about practicing on campus:

Photo from VCC Cosmetology student's Instagram: @true.living.aesthetics

VCC Baking and Pastry learning experience

My Tien Truong (Tina) recently graduated from VCC’s Baking and Pastry Dual Certificates in Winter 2021. Check out what Tina has to say about her experiences.

What do you like most about studying at VCC?

VCC is like my second home, where I’ve met wonderful people who teach me to become a better version of myself and guide me to the right path for my future career. I can’t thank enough all of my instructors - Laurie Vestergaard, Wolfgang Dauke, Lisa Wagner, Alan Dobko, Betty Chubey, and all of the baking assistants at VCC. I feel grateful for all of their works, efforts, and comments. Even though we had been through a very tough year as classes were delivered online due to COVID-19, VCC did their best to help us back to the lab and finish our last semester.

( Starry Night Chocolate Box )

What is the most creative project you’ve ever done?

I love the Plated Dessert Course and Chocolatier Course in the Baking program. There is more room to create and present our artistic designs on the plate. One of my most creative items is the “Cococado Dessert.” It is basically coconut ice-cream and avocado smoothie, but what makes this special is that condensed milk is added to the ice cream.  I get inspired by a Vietnamese dessert back home called Kem Bơ. My instructor was very impressed when she tried my Cococado as it was the first time she tried avocado in a sweet dessert. Besides, VCC is a good place for people who want to “be bold”, and experience new things.

(Coconut Icecream and Avocado Smoothie )

How do you contribute to your classes and help your classmates?

In baking, I think we mostly learn from each other, mutually learn from one another, and share techniques and even mistakes. It is very important to work as a team and support each other in the lab. This is also a reason why we consider and treat others as a part of our family.

(Italian Macaron)

Learn professional techniques for artisanal bread and fine pastry production from Canada’s top bakers in a fully equipped industrial kitchen. Sign up for our Info Session or check our website to learn more about Baking and Pastry programs at VCC.

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Stay connected with us and learn about international students' experiences at VCC. Follow us on Instagram and be part of our Facebook Group!

Becoming a global citizen with collaborative international learning at VCC

Imagine working on a real-world humanitarian problem with students in different countries from around the world. For one Vancouver Community College (VCC) student, the UMAP Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program allowed him to do just that.

Syed Hussain, a third-year domestic student in VCC’s Bachelor of Hospitality Management program, is the college’s first participant to complete the opportunity this fall – made possible by the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP), a consortium with over 200 higher education institutions from 23 countries in Asia and the Pacific Rim.

“My assumptions were challenged when working with international students,” says Syed, currently a duty manager at Coast Coal Harbour in Vancouver. “I also got to learn about new tools and technology I’d never heard of before and that could help me in my career later down the road.”

Global goals

Over seven weeks from August to October, COIL students collaborated on projects related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Syed’s group consisted of students from Japan, Mexico, and Chile who researched drowning prevention around the world.

According to Syed, while Canadian statistics show a decline in drowning deaths over the years thanks to swimming education and the use of lifeguards, other countries such as Chile and Mexico lack such resources. Japan, specifically, has been doubling down on efforts to teach more citizens to swim, especially after the 2011 tsunami took the lives of thousands of people.

Gaining such global awareness and learning to work across borders are some of the most valuable benefits of the COIL program for Syed, who hopes to become a hotel consultant in the future and help businesses make data-driven decisions to better run their operations.

The exchange experience

In January 2021, VCC became the International Secretariat of UMAP, which aims to provide intercultural learning opportunities to as many students as possible, either through fully immersive international exchange semesters or through virtual programs such as COIL for working students like Syed who are unable to travel abroad.

“Programs such as these bring new perspectives to the classroom, and, in turn, give students the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills to an informed global citizen,” says Chelsey Laird, director of UMAP at VCC. “These opportunities expose you to different ways of thinking and give you a chance to work with people abroad that you otherwise would not have had.”

While the thought of going on exchange or working across time zones may seem daunting at first, Syed encourages any student at VCC to jump right in if this is something they are considering.

“Don’t be shy,” he says. “This is a great learning opportunity, especially working with different cultures.”

Learn more about studying abroad and gaining intercultural knowledge as part of your learning experience. Contact the UMAP team (umap@vcc.ca) for information about the UMAP consortium and other exchange opportunities for students at VCC. 

RBC Foundation’s $45K grant augments virtual skills training

Over the past 18 months, organizations have had to pivot and change to respond to new challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Vancouver Community College (VCC) led the way by finding new ways to continue teaching essential skills to students both virtually and in-person – while safely maintaining nearly 40 per cent occupancy during the pandemic.

RBC Foundation stepped up to help address new student needs. In 2020, RBC donated $45,000 in support of a face-to-face program that was placed on hold at the pandemic’s outset. Recognizing the new challenges students were facing, RBC quickly agreed to reallocate these funds to purchase augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) technology to our trades’ departments to allow students to practice their skills while off-campus.

The first cohort to take advantage of the new technology were students from VCC's Auto Collision and Refinishing program, international students originating from China, Iran, South Korea, Taiwan, and India were able to practice virtual car-painting skills prior to classroom re-entry.

“Students were able to practice the physical motions of automotive refinishing at home and have had more time developing the muscle memory that is required to refinish. Through an app, students receive feedback on travel speed, spray gun distance, and spray gun angle – which are aspects of painting that are very difficult to explain to new students,” says Brett Griffiths, VCC Dean of Trades, Technology and Design.

Students reported having very positive experiences with the virtual learning tool. “Oculus was very helpful in learning automotive paint. It actually helped a lot in controlling my speed and distance from the painting surface and was directly related to actual painting,” notes one student.

An unexpected benefit to using AR/VR technology to assist virtual learning was that students gained confidence while attempting new skills in the privacy of their own home and without being concerned about wasting product.

“The Oculus helped a lot in gaining motor skills, “highlights another student. “It’s a great tool for someone like me, who never had painted before, to gain confidence and become comfortable with the equipment and finding what works for me (or not) and how I should move/position my body before actually going into a paint booth.”

“RBC’s gift will definitely keep on giving as additional VCC cohorts and programs can utilize this same equipment with a variety of software. These shifts in how and where we learn are silver linings revealed out of difficult times,” says VCC Foundation Director Nancy Nesbitt.

We thank RBC Foundation for their generosity and willingness to be flexible and meet the needs of our students.

24/7 counselling services for international students

As post-secondary students return to in-person learning and the demands of busy lives, Vancouver Community College (VCC) wants to ensure that free counselling and mental health supports are easily accessible.

Here2Talk is a mental health counselling and referral service available to all B.C. post-secondary students. The service offers confidential, free, single-session services by app, phone, or online chat, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How to access Here2Talk

B.C. post-secondary students can access professional counselling services by:

• Downloading the Here2Talk app
• Visiting here2talk.ca
• Calling toll free 1.877.857.3397 or direct 604.642.5212 

Students calling from outside Canada can also dial 604.642.5212 (international calling charges may apply). Phone services are available in additional languages upon request.

The Here2Talk service is operated by LifeWorks, and can support students dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, pressure to perform, crises, racism, and relationships. Counsellors will also be equipped to refer students to local resources in their communities.

VCC Counselling Services

At VCC, counselling services are available free of charge to all registered students and applicants. VCC’s counselling team consists of trained, professional counsellors who are able to support you in the management of personal issues that may affect your academic performance or personal well-being.

Counselling reception for both VCC campuses can be reached by calling 604.871.7000, option 2.

VCC Counselling office hours

Other helpful links:

• VCC Advising Services
• VCC International Education
  
  

VCC is top pick in 2021 Best of Vancouver

Vancouver Community College (VCC) is proud to annouce that Georgia Straight readers have once again voted us 'Best Culinary School' and 'Best School for Continuing Education'.

Full 2021 results

Best Culinary School

1. Vancouver Community College
2. The Dirty Apron Cooking School & Delicatessen
3. Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts (PICA)

Best School for Continuing Education

1. Vancouver Community College
2. University of British Columbia
3. Langara College

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VCC jewellery international student donates small business profits to food bank

The moment Vancouver Community College (VCC) international student Mariana Carneiro saw people struggling to meet their basic needs due to COVID-19, she started thinking of ways to help. 

As a fashion professional and jewellery designer, however, Mariana’s skills weren’t typically the kind needed in a global health emergency. Having only recently moved to Canada from Brazil, her connections were limited, and living with an at-risk family member meant she also had to be extra careful about leaving the house. 

Still, she was resolute. “I really wanted to do something that would help people beyond my friends and neighbours,” she says.

Watching the news one day, she saw that the food bank needed extra help, so she decided to donate 10 per cent of sales from her online jewellery shop, Kaju. Additionally, she gave numerous pairs of earrings as a token of thanks to health care workers, and began promoting donations to Canadian Blood Services on her popular Instagram account.

“If you can, I think you need to share,” she says. “Every little bit counts right now.”

An artistic journey

Before moving to Canada, Mariana studied industrial design and earned a master’s degree in fashion business in Brazil. She started her career in a large clothing company where she also designed jewellery, but never crafted it herself. 

“I drew the designs, picked the stones and materials, but someone else would make it,” she says. “I love jewellery but I never learned the making process.”

In Vancouver, Mariana began experimenting with jewellery at home using colourful clay and metal. Her designs soon became popular on Etsy, but she wanted to refine her techniques, so she enrolled in the Jewellery Techniques 1 course through VCC Continuing Studies.

“I learned so much in two and a half months,” says Mariana. While the focus of the class was making silver rings, once Mariana had learned the basic techniques, she’s grateful that the instructor allowed her to shift to her real passion – making earrings.  

Mariana is now planning on enrolling in VCC’s full Jewellery Art and Design diploma program in 2021. 

No small gift

A ten per cent donation may sound small, but for a solo entrepreneur, it’s huge. “I wanted to find some way I could help, and I wish I could do more,” says Mariana, who independently looks after every aspect of her business, from manufacturing to web design to customer service. 

Read more about how VCC students, grads, and employees are working together to fight the spread of COVID-19. 

VCC department head re-elected as the president of the Project Management Institute

Fall 2021: Health and safety on VCC campuses

A message from VCC Director, Safety, Security and Risk, Surinder Aulakh

Warm greetings to the VCC community,

Next week, students, faculty, and staff will return to campus, many for the first time in a year and a half.

Although it is exciting to be able to see each other again and learn together in-person, I know that there are some concerns about what to expect when you arrive.

Public health experts in British Columbia fully support the Sept. 7 return to on-campus instruction for all post-secondary institutions. We also know that educational settings like colleges are low-risk sites for COVID-19 transmission.

For the past 18 months and prior to vaccine availability, VCC remained open and successfully navigated the challenges of the pandemic with no person-to-person, on-campus transmissions.  

Today, we know that vaccines are proven to be highly effective in preventing COVID-19 infections, serious outcomes, and sustained transmission. Full vaccination (two doses) offers a high level of protection against COVID-19, including the Delta variant. Immunization has resulted in much lower infection rates, hospitalizations, and death rates in B.C., even as society has re-opened.

At VCC, we are committed to the health and safety of our community. We are also responsible for the delivery of post-secondary programs without barriers. Over the past 18 months, young adults aged 18-29 were among the hardest hit by pandemic-related response measures, and now is the time to support their recovery.

The plan to return to in-person learning this fall is about everyone to coming back together safely, so we can continue to offer hands-on, dynamic programs for our students.

How you can do your part

In preparation for next week, there are three key ways everyone can do their part to keep themselves and each other safe:

Get vaccinated

Vaccination is the best line of defence we have against COVID-19.

VCC strongly encourages all students and employees who are eligible and able, to get vaccinated.

We expect to receive new detailed information in the coming days about specifics around the BC Vaccine Card, and how to incorporate this measure into daily operations at certain on-campus services such as JJ’s Restaurant and The Bistro. We will continue to share updates with the VCC community as details are made available. 

Conduct a daily self pre-screen

Starting Tuesday, Sept. 7, all students and employees are required to perform a daily self-assessment before coming onto VCC campuses. This online tool will determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19.

Wear a mask

Masks are currently required in all public indoor settings for all people born in 2009 or earlier (12+).

At VCC, this applies to all indoor public areas on campuses including lobbies, hallways, stairwells, elevators, libraries, cafeterias (when not eating), classrooms, and labs. 

Please remember, there are those for whom wearing a mask is not an option. Wear a mask if you are able, and respect those who cannot.

Additionally, personal hygiene measures such as proper hand washing and sanitizing, and coughing and sneezing into elbows continue to be strongly recommended.  

The VCC community has done a tremendous job navigating and responding to new orders and recommendations from the Provincial Health Officer over these many months, and I am confident that we will continue to do so. 

Please get vaccinated, and let’s continue to do our very best to take care of each other.

Sincerely,

Surinder Aulakh
Director, Safety, Security and Risk
Vancouver Community College

VCC jewellery student donates small business profits to food bank

The moment Vancouver Community College (VCC) international student Mariana Carneiro saw people struggling to meet their basic needs due to COVID-19, she started thinking of ways to help. 

As a fashion professional and jewellery designer, however, Mariana’s skills weren’t typically the kind needed in a global health emergency. Having only recently moved to Canada from Brazil, her connections were limited, and living with an at-risk family member meant she also had to be extra careful about leaving the house. 

Still, she was resolute. “I really wanted to do something that would help people beyond my friends and neighbours,” she says.

Watching the news one day, she saw that the food bank needed extra help, so she decided to donate 10 per cent of sales from her online jewellery shop, Kaju. Additionally, she gave numerous pairs of earrings as a token of thanks to health care workers, and began promoting donations to Canadian Blood Services on her popular Instagram account.

“If you can, I think you need to share,” she says. “Every little bit counts right now.”

An artistic journey

Before moving to Canada, Mariana studied industrial design and earned a master’s degree in fashion business in Brazil. She started her career in a large clothing company where she also designed jewellery, but never crafted it herself. 

“I drew the designs, picked the stones and materials, but someone else would make it,” she says. “I love jewellery but I never learned the making process.”

In Vancouver, Mariana began experimenting with jewellery at home using colourful clay and metal. Her designs soon became popular on Etsy, but she wanted to refine her techniques, so she enrolled in the Jewellery Techniques 1 course through VCC Continuing Studies.

“I learned so much in two and a half months,” says Mariana. While the focus of the class was making silver rings, once Mariana had learned the basic techniques, she’s grateful that the instructor allowed her to shift to her real passion – making earrings.  

Mariana is now planning on taking Jewellery Techniques 2 in the coming months, and enrolling in VCC’s full Jewellery Art and Design diploma program in 2021. 

No small gift

A ten per cent donation may sound small, but for a solo entrepreneur, it’s huge. “I wanted to find some way I could help, and I wish I could do more,” says Mariana, who independently looks after every aspect of her business, from manufacturing to web design to customer service. 

Read more about how VCC students, grads, and employees are working together to fight the spread of COVID-19. 

Bees, flowers, and sustainable fashion blossom at VCC

Vancouver Community College (VCC) is pleased to welcome some helpful new members to our campus community – a colony of mason bees! 

Unlike honeybees, who build complex hives and work together in large numbers, mason bees are solitary but effective pollinators that live in small, reed-like tubes. Mason bees are non-aggressive and do not make honey, instead eating the pollen they collect.

VCC’s new mason bees and their custom-built houses were the result of a special sustainability project led by VCC science instructors Klaudia Jurkemik and Jacqueline Shehadeh. The initiative was made possible thanks to VCC’s Environmental Community Action Team (ECAT) and the Eco-College Small Grants program that provided up to $500 for winning sustainability proposals in late 2019.

Want to see the bees in action? Two of the mason bee homes in VCC’s Broadway campus courtyard have plexiglass sides, which allow the colony to be viewed by the community and used for educational purposes in our Biology classes.

Garden bed upgrades 

To keep our bees happy and our urban ecosystem thriving, additional recipients this year’s Eco-College Small Grants have worked to keep flowers and vegetables growing at the Broadway campus. 

Thanks to the funding, mathematics department assistant and volunteer gardener Jotie Grewalson was able to re-soil and clean the courtyard beds, while student Xianan Bai planted a variety of perennial flowering bulbs including allium, gladiolus, and lilium. “I wanted our garden to be beautiful for a long time,” says Xianan.

Fighting fast fashion

Our final group of Eco-College grant winners approached the idea of “green” a little differently – by looking deep inside our closets. In their proposal, VCC Adult Special Education students in the Managing Your Money (CCED 0608) class wanted to call attention to issues surrounding “fast fashion” and textile waste. In doing so, they researched key statistics for an information campaign that would encourage the VCC community to reduce, reuse, and recycle their clothing.

In collaboration with VCC Graphic Design, the grant winners produced a series of posters and flyers that were launched at VCC Fashion’s “Clothing Mend-It" event in March 2020 and subsequently distributed across VCC campuses. 

Read more about how VCC continues to integrate energy conservation and sustainability into campus culture. 

VCC Japanese class finds fluency and friendship during COVID-19

Ema (絵馬) plaques inscribed with wishes and prayers hanging on a Japanese shrine

Vancouver Community College (VCC) Continuing Studies offers dozens of part-time evening language classes, including Arabic, Cantonese, French, Mandarin, Korean, and more. While most students sign up to dabble in a language for vacation travel, business, or personal interest, becoming fluent is a much bigger endeavour.

For one special group of VCC students, learning Japanese has become more than hobby, and their instructor is willing to take them as far as they want to go.

Typically, Continuing Studies language programs offer two or three levels before enrolment declines or students begin to travel for language immersion. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, many would-be world travellers have remained in Canada, including eight Japanese language students who have pursued their immersion right here at VCC.

Rika Knox is a native Japanese speaker and experienced teacher who began as an introductory Japanese instructor at VCC in 2006. Over the past few years, Rika has developed a special connection with her VCC cohort, guiding them through not only Japanese 1 to 3, but continuing to build and customize the curriculum up to Japanese 6.

“When I am teaching at the beginner level, it’s the first door to the Japanese language and culture, so I like to make a good impression and create long-term motivation and interest,” she says.

Mission accomplished. These eight language learners have continued to advance together in their knowledge of both the Japanese language and culture, as well as build a supportive community.

“Connecting virtually has been a bright spot during these dark times,” says longtime student Dean. “We’re all so different in terms of ages, occupations, and backgrounds, but we share something meaningful in common: the love of the Japanese language and culture.” 

“I have been very grateful for the Japanese classes during the pandemic,” says classmate Kathy. “As a retired person, nearly all of my usual social activities and volunteer shifts were cancelled. It was wonderful to have a regular Japanese class to add structure to my days.”

One of the world’s most complex and fascinating languages, Japanese is made up of two different “alphabets” (hiragana and katakana), plus thousands of Chinese-origin characters (kanji) which are all used in combination.

Class member Joey appreciates the challenge. “I think people would find that learning Japanese is surprisingly fun,” he says.

Rika also believes learning this remarkable language is worth it. “The Japanese language is so very connected to our culture, as well as our hospitality and our spirituality,” she says. “The words have greater power beyond just communication.”

Would you like to connect with VCC’s diverse language community? Do you dream of learning a language not currently offered? Connect with us by visiting VCC Languages or emailing cstudies@vcc.ca.

Special Fall 2019 Student Awards recap VCC International Students!

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Last November 22, Vancouver Community College (VCC) was proud to celebrate over 200 deserving students at our Fall 2019 Student Awards ceremonies.

During the ceremony, VCC’s interim president Ajay Patel, along with deans, instructors, and awards donors presented a variety of scholarships to individual students from VCC’s School of Health Sciences, School of Hospitality, Food Studies and Applied Business, and School of Trades, Technology and Design, Centre for Continuing Studies, School of Instructor Education, School of Arts and Sciences, and VCC Music.

This term, 22 awards were given out to the International students from Brazil, China, Colombia, Iran, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Vietnam that are taking the Auto Collision, Auto Service, Baking & Pastry, Culinary, Fashion, Hospitality, Music, and Visual Communication VCC programs.

Following each ceremony, students, friends, and family members were invited to a tea reception offering the chance to celebrate alongside donors and VCC faculty and staff. 

Official photos

View the photo galleries of the Fall 2019 Student Awards ceremonies. All attendees are invited to download and share their photos. 

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Student Awards video feature

Each year, VCC Foundation selects one or more Student Award recipients to profile in a video feature. This fall, the honor went to culinary arts students Katherine Aguilar, recipient of the Santiago Cuyugan Award of Excellence; Jacqueline Guadalupe Muñoz Hererra, recipient of the International Wine & Food Society Award; and Phuong (Anne) Nguyen, recipient of the Cactus Club Café Above and Beyond Award. 

https://youtu.be/BVFYs1ltXUg

Bake with Bruno Feldeisen at VCC

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Fans of The Great Canadian Baking Show will undoubtedly recognize Bruno Feldeisen. After three successful seasons as a judge on the beloved CBC baking program, the smiling, bespectacled pastry chef has become a household name for home bakers across the country. 

Less known, perhaps, is that Bruno not only calls Vancouver home, but also teaches part-time baking and pastry classes at Vancouver Community College (VCC). In his courses, he shares his love of baking and pastry using a combination of expert skill and encouragement. 

In one popular course, World of Breads (CUIS 1106), Bruno says his goal is to take away the fear of breadmaking. “It’s intimidating to a lot of people,” he says. The secret to better bread, according to Bruno, is to learn the essential steps but avoid getting stuck on a recipe. Rather, he encourages students to get a feel for the process, then get creative and have fun. “It’s OK to play around,” he says.

Why would a chef who has consistently wowed high-class diners from France to California to New York choose to teach baking basics? As a troubled teen, Bruno got his own start in the industry when a famous French chocolatier took him on as an apprentice. Today, he’s the one with a heart for anyone wishing to learn. 

“I meet people who are very good bakers with great ideas,” says Bruno. “My work is always so professional, and I enjoy the challenge of communicating with people who don’t speak the same culinary language.”

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VCC Continuing Studies offers baking courses from French pastry to chocolate showpieces at a fraction of the cost of private culinary schools. 

A message from the VCC Indigenous Education and Community Engagement Department and VCC’s President

The 215 Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation children buried at a former Indian Residential School in Kamloops is a sad and stark reminder of the trauma that continues for Indigenous residential school survivors and their families. Our healing is not complete and our collective work in supporting this healing is far from over.

The damaging and lasting impacts that the residential school system continues to have on First Nations people, their families and communities cannot be understated. We have to face our history, not just acknowledge it.

Today, we call out to our Ancestors for care and healing for the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation, and for all the Indigenous families and communities across Canada that have lost their children.

This news is difficult and deeply emotional. For those who need to talk or get support the National Residential School Crisis Line for former students can be accessed 24-Hours a day at: 1-866-925-4419

VCC Indigenous Education and Community Engagement Department

We at VCC are deeply saddened to learn of the 215 children buried at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School.

I would also like to echo words of healing from VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement Department, and the reminder that our work towards reconciliation and truth is not done.

VCC is resilient in our commitment to the work of Truth and Reconciliation, as we face such a dark history, that we are painfully reminded of today.

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College

VCC Culinary Arts learning experience

VCC Culinary student, Cheska Marielle Ferolino shared with us about her experience while she is studying at her last term at VCC.

“VCC’s environment made my experience a whole lot better because it wasn’t hard to find friends especially that it is my first time studying abroad. What I like most about VCC is the learning experience because the instructors are highly qualified and experts with real-world experience in the field. As a Culinary Arts student, seeing myself improving and learning new ideas in the culinary field makes me one step closer to my dream of becoming a chef. VCC has changed my life and I can proudly say that choosing VCC is the right choice.”

CHESKA MARIELLE FEROLINO
CULINARY ARTS STUDENT

Learn the skills and techniques of professional commercial cooking from Canada's top chefs in a fully equipped industrial kitchen. Sign up for our Info Session or check our website to learn more about Culinary Arts Diploma program at VCC.

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Heat Warning for Metro Vancouver today

Environment Canada announced a heat risk to the Lower Mainland today; please take preventative measures to avoid heat-related injuries.

Please note that Vancouver Community College (VCC) Broadway and Downtown campuses are open for normal operations today and our HVAC systems are operational. VCC will be monitoring the heat situation and will apply all WorkSafeBC guidelines regarding heat stress.

Protection from heat stress

Heat exhaustion can come on quickly when the body overheats to 40 degrees C. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, headache, clammy skin, and intense thirst. Worse, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, a more serious condition that can cause brain damage, unconsciousness, and even death.

How can you protect yourself from heat hazards at work? Here are some pointers, whether the work happens outdoors or indoors under hot conditions:

Stay hydrated

Drink lots of water. When your sweat glands are working overtime, you need to stay hydrated. Aim to drink about one litre of water every hour and stay away from caffeine and alcohol, which are dehydrating.

Avoid direct sunlight/stay in shade

Seek shade. Avoid working in the sun — particularly between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest. And don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours if you work in the sun.

Dress appropriately 

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to help sweat evaporate and keep you cooler. Avoid dark colors, which can absorb heat. If possible, wear a light-colored, wide-brimmed hat.

Moderate activities

Exercise in the morning or evening, when it's likely to be cooler outdoors. If possible, exercise in shady areas, or do a water workout in a pool. If possible, stay indoors. Work out at the gym, walk laps inside the mall, or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building.

Heed the humidex

Humidex ratings tell us how hot we actually feel when heat and humidity mix to an uncomfortable or unsafe degree. The higher the humidex, the harder it is to cool down by sweating. It’s important that employers monitor other factors that affect how hot it feels in the workplace, such as air flow, workload, radiant heat sources, and the age and physical health of workers.

Pay attention to warning signs

Heat illnesses can happen quickly, especially during hot-weather exercise, watch for the following signs and symptoms:

• Muscle cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Excessive sweating
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Irritability
• Low blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Visual problems

If you develop any of these symptoms, you must lower your body temperature and get hydrated right away. Stop exercising immediately and get out of the heat. If possible, have someone stay with you who can help monitor your condition. If you do not act, your condition may worsen, resulting in a medical emergency.

WorkSafe BC has also created a guide for workers during extreme heat conditions.

Please look out for each other! People generally don’t notice when they have heat exhaustion, so it’s important that workers be trained in recognizing its signs and symptoms and when to call for medical help.

Virtual runway show a dream come true for VCC Fashion grads

Eleven students from Vancouver Community College's (VCC) Fashion Design & Production program showcased their 2020-21 grad collections as part of Vancouver Fashion Week (VFW) held online this year from April 16 to 18.

In lieu of a physical runway, VCC Fashion students collaborated with VCC Graphic Design students to stream a virtual runway film featuring collections including kids wear, Mariachi-inspired designs, horror film-inspired creations, nature-inspired looks, and more.

In addition to the VFW showcase, VCC Fashion students Celeste Sudermann and Shadi Arastehmanesh had the opportunity to share their experiences on CBC's Early Edition with host Michelle Eliot. Listen to the full interview online.

For Celeste, the process behind designing her collection was about challenging her creativity using only the fabrics available from the VCC fashion lab and adding hardware material such as hinges and seat belts to her streetwear pieces. 

International student Shadi, who aspires to become an independent designer for bridal fashion and evening wear, found that she had to adapt her designs so her pieces could be worn for other occasions – especially after the pandemic had restricted celebrations such as weddings and parties.

Shadhi's collection, titled Turquoise Treasure, is a women's evening wear collection inspired by the Victorian era of the 1800-1900s, and is marked by transformative details in the sleeves, collars, and skirts that are meant to mix and match with four different dresses. See more of her work on Instagram @shadi_arastehmanesh. 

Learn more about all 11 students from the 2020-21 Fashion Show or watch the virtual runway on Facebook Live.

Express yourself by bringing garments to life. Sign up to learn more about the fashion industry in a free online information session.

Five VCC students compete for national titles at Skills Canada 2021

Winning chocolate box by Katie Rempel, Skills Canada BC

Earlier this year, Vancouver Community College (VCC) celebrated multiple gold-medal performances in the Skills Canada BC virtual provincial competitions. Now, VCC’s champions in baking, autobody repair, and car painting will showcase their talents at the Skills Canada 2021 Virtual National Competition.

Instead of travelling across the country to a single host city, this year, our students will follow COVID-19 guidelines by competing remotely and safely at VCC campus facilities from May 25 to 30.

Baking

Comfortable and confident in VCC’s campus baking labs, competitors Noeka Nimmervoll (secondary) and Katie Rempel (post-secondary) will tackle the demanding requirements designed to find the best student baker in the country. 

To follow her golden performance at provincials, Noeka will be making 16 French macarons, two identical Povitica breads, and a decorated bar cake.

Our post-secondary champ Katie will need to produce 20 hand-dipped chocolate bonbons, a decorated chocolate presentation box, and a two-tiered celebration cake. Both competitors must creatively reflect the theme “Enchanted Forest.”

Autobody repair 

Meanwhile, in VCC’s autobody repair shop, provincial gold medallists Keagan Behiel (secondary) and Noah Kew (post-secondary) will be aiming for the title of Canada’s top student technician.

With judges expecting perfection, both our competitors will conduct a plastic bumper repair followed by a measuring and damage analysis project. Noah will then go on to complete a sectioning project.

Car painting

Finally, over in VCC’s high-tech downdraft paint booth, one more secondary winner, Emmett Thompson, will be showcasing his hard-earned car painting skills through tasks including prepping, masking, refinishing, colour tinting, and more.

Skills Canada event June 15

While individual virtual competitions will not be live-streamed, all competitors, classmates, friends, family, and fans are invited to join the Skills Canada Virtual National Competition virtual fair on Tuesday, June 15 for highlights, games, prizes, and a closing ceremony starting at 3 p.m. PDT. RSVP NOW >

Watch VCC’s social media feeds for updates on our national competitors and share your support online using the hashtags #myVCC and #SCVNC2021 or by mentioning @myVCC @vccautobody, or @vccbaking on Twitter and Instagram.

Are you interested in the exciting world of skilled trades? Join one of VCC’s upcoming free information sessions to find a rewarding, hands-on career that’s right for you.

VCC jewellery students inspire through public window displays

From Saturday, May 29 until Sunday, June 13, Vancouver Community College (VCC) Jewellery Art and Design students will be presenting their annual showcase in a new and innovative location – outdoors.

Typically a champagne-and-canapés affair in VCC’s Downtown campus atrium, last year’s jewellery show was shifted to a virtual event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While indoor gatherings are still restricted this spring, VCC’s Jewellery Art and Design students were inspired to utilize the large glass walls of VCC’s Broadway campus building B, displaying their famously creative jewellery vignettes inside the building while inviting the public to view them safely from outside.

Twenty-four displays of student-designed and handcrafted pieces will be featured along the building’s covered walkway, which is accessible from East 7th Ave. and Glen Dr.

“It will be viewed from outside the building, and will be well-lit, so visible anytime of the day or night," explains Karin Jones, VCC Jewellery Art and Design instructor and department leader.

Guests are also invited to follow the VCC Jewellery Facebook page to see photos and share comments.

Participating Jewellery Art and Design students

Graduating students

Leah Lang  @westcoastmetalproject
Raquel Campos  @raquelale
Tam Rueter  @anchierrajewellery
Angela Thien Kim Nguyen  @atkimndesigns
Michael Hill  @michaelhilldesigns
Kourosh Mirabian  @kourosh.ca
Sayeh Nourbahksh  @sayehnourjewelry
Chera Kim  @ouri_fine
Kelsea Balata  @kelseabalata
Jing Yang  @echpo.aul

First-year students

Aimée Taylor  @ameli_jewellery
Iris Lo  @ilj.studio
Clemence Beurton
Sebastian Penner  @allparsleyeverything
Evan Matthews
Weiwei Li
Monique Huynh  @moniquehuynhjewelry
Jill Vickers-Kealy  @jillvk.jewelry
Tata Sadeghi
Kale Needham  @triplefivejewelry

Are you coming to VCC’s parking-lot clinic for your COVID-19 vaccine? Pop across the street after your “jab” for some creative inspiration and picture yourself wearing beautiful jewellery again soon!

Interested in expanding your hobby or making jewellery as a career? Learn more about VCC's two-year diploma in Jewellery Art and Design and apply now for September.

Vancouver ranked best city for youth to work in Canada

It’s a great time to be in Vancouver. According to the 2021 Youthful Cities Urban Work Index, Metro Vancouver achieved the highest ranking in Canada as a place for youth aged 15 to 29 to live and work. 

The project considered 76 indicators, grouped into 11 different topics, to rank cities across Canada on things that matter most to youth. 

Of the 27 cities considered, Metro Vancouver was ranked first overall, in addition to achieving the top score in the categories of Equity and Inclusion, Public Transportation, and Public Health. 

At Vancouver Community College (VCC), we’re thrilled about this ranking and proud to play a major role in preparing youth to take part in B.C.’s promising workforce.

Explore VCC’s wide variety of certificate, diploma, degree, and apprenticeship programs now and establish your future in the best city in Canada! 

For the purposes of this index, “Metro Vancouver” included our many friends in Burnaby, Coquitlam, Delta, Langley, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, Surrey, West Vancouver, and White Rock.

Women in trades needed for B.C.’s economic recovery

Excerpt from Business in Vancouver article: Women seen as key to reducing B.C.’s labour shortage

As B.C. looks to pull itself out of its COVID-induced economic lull, the sectors expecting to be the economy’s major engines – mining, resources, construction, and transportation – are struggling with skilled-labour shortages that could be resolved quickly if industry leaders looked in the right direction, observers say.

The key demographic that could provide the answer, they say, is women. According to B.C. advocates, educators, and tradespeople, the potential for skilled female workers to offset the shortage of electricians, heavy-machinery operators, automotive repair technicians, and other trades is huge in a province needing to maximize its workforce.

Few people have a better view of this than Lindsay Kearns, outreach co-ordinator at the BC Centre for Women in the Trades (BCCWITT) and a 10-year veteran electrician.

“Isolation, discrimination and poor workplace culture have long been barriers for women to enter and stay in these great careers, and with the current skilled workers shortage, it’s time to start focusing on under-represented groups,” Kearns said. “I’m an optimist, and the shift is happening, but the change needs to start at the leadership level. Everyone has to buy in.”

Breaking the mould

Keith Mew, head of the auto collision department of Vancouver Community College’s trades training program, said interest from female students in classes such as his has been steadily rising, although still at a relatively low one out of 15 or 16 student ratio.

But Mew agreed that workplace culture remains a key barrier for many female tradespeople who have the skill to enter the field but soon find themselves overwhelmed by either overt sexism or covert discriminatory behaviours in certain work situations.

“100%, that’s an issue,” Mew said. “And it sometimes depends on the area where someone is working geographically – and the company that they are working for. One thing about the auto collision and refinishing industry is that there are some very large companies with great work cultures, and there are also some smaller shops that may not have the best.”

That’s why, Mew said, VCC offers additional support for female graduates. Mew checks in with alumni from time to time to make sure their post-graduation journey in their career fields is going smoothly. It doesn’t mean these women workers are getting preferential treatment, he said, but rather that their entry into the workplace is in on as even a playing field as possible.

“What I would say is – and what I say to all our students is – this only works as a career if you find joy in the act of working in a shop and performing tasks,” he said. “If there’s no joy in that for you – and it is a demanding job with long hours and stressful environments – it probably won’t be for you. But for women that come through, based on the challenges they face, we really try to support them with resources that we have ... because no one should be able to tell you that you are not allowed to pursue a career that makes you happy.”

One alumna, Kiara Reissner, said she has been relatively lucky. While she is the only woman working at Richmond Auto Body in North Vancouver, co-workers have been understanding and respectful, allowing her to concentrate on her job and career path.

“I feel that there’s not a lot of women who continue [in trades], but I would like to break that mould,” Reissner said. “I’d like to have an apprentice one day. It’s difficult to find women mentorship. We do have a woman teacher at the shop at VCC, and she’s a great mentor. But I don’t know too many others. But the guys have been great, too. I don’t feel like I’ve been set apart from them in any way. They include me in everything.”

Continue reading in Business in Vancouver >

Discover rewarding, in-demand trades careers through VCC's automotive, collision and refinishing, culinary, baking and pastry, and hair design and esthetics programs for International students. Apply now!

Student-designed T-shirt sale supports VCC scholarships

The popular graphic design T-shirt fundraiser for VCC Foundation is back. Choose from three original designs now available online at the VCC Bookstore. 

Congratulations to second-year graphic design diploma students Natalie Bocking, Mio Masaki, and Natalie Cano, who won a competition to create the illustrations for the shirts.

T-shirts cost $21.95, and all proceeds go to the VCC Foundation, supporting scholarships and equipment for deserving VCC students. In 2019, the campaign sold out of T-shirts, raising more than $500. So get yours today! Order now from the VCC Bookstore.

Curious about a creative career? Learn more about VCC's graphic design programs at an upcoming free information session for International students.

VCC students share their online learning experiences

Most classes in Spring/Summer 2020 have transitioned to online delivery or remote learning due to COVID-19. We are very proud of our international students as they managed to study from their home and continue their learning journey during this uncertain time. Check out some social media posts from our students sharing their learning-from-home experiences. Here are also some tips for online learning.

Students posts their Online learning experiences on VCC's Instagram page.

1. Organize your agenda

Having a calendar with your day planned can help you organize everything you have to do and avoid procrastination. A paper journal to write on, Google calendar, or a mobile app calendar can come handy when you're trying to find time to work on your assignments, prepare presentations, have coffee dates with some friends, and watch a movie!

2. Avoid multitasking

Focusing on one thing at a time is the key to have your tasks done without feeling overwhelmed. Consider following the pomodoro technique by focusing on your tasks for 25 minutes, followed by a 5 minute break. Remember to take breaks between your tasks, by listening to your favourite music, practicing mindful meditation, doing some stretches, or finding other ways to relax and renew your energy.

3. Participate, focus and review

Attend classes, ask questions, participate in discussions, connect with your classments, and always plan to log in a few minutes before classes begin. Avoid distractions during this time by turning your phone off and closing all the tabs on your browser that are not related to what you are learning. Set dedicated time to work on your assignments. Review class recordings if available. 

Students posts their Online learning experiences on VCC's Instagram page.

4. Stay connected with others

Communicate with your classmates, work together on assignments and projects, and find time to study together. Check in on your classmates and provide support if necessary. Build relationships and enjoy this learning journey together!

Stay connected with your friends and family - they are your support network! Take a break and call or email them to share how your day goes. You will be amazed how we can utilize technology to stay connected with our loved ones, even though we cannot see one another in person!

5. Access VCC support and services

Stay connected with us. You are not alone in this online learning journey!

VCC International Student Advisors meet with students virtually every Tuesday and Thursday at 2pm. Click here for more details. You can also reach us by email at ieservices@vcc.ca.

Follow us on Social Media! Our Instagram is a great place to see how other students are doing while #studyingathome. We also share a lot of information about events happening online and in Vancouver on our Facebook Group.

"We are in this together – and we will get through this, together."

António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations

Students posts their Online learning experiences on VCC's Instagram page.

VCC Culinary Arts Alumni learning experience

Yavar Gharibi graduated from VCC’s Culinary Arts Diploma in 2020, and has been since working in well-known and leading restaurants in Vancouver. He is currently working at the Keg Steakhouse, Ayoub's Dried Fruits & Nuts, and has his own catering company. Yavar is a passionate ambassador of VCC and the Culinary Arts Diploma program. See what Yavar has to say about his experiences while studying at VCC, and as an alumnus in the culinary industry.

What did you like most about VCC?

VCC Culinary’s School opened up a world of experiences to me that changed the way I saw cooking before. By assigning the best Chefs in the industry as instructors, the highest quality tools and equipment and their perfect scheduling and planning, VCC managed to provide an excellent opportunity for me to see "cooking" in a whole new light.

What is the most creative project you've done as a VCC student?

Being creative is one of the most important goals that VCC wants its students to achieve. With the training that was provided for us, we all had the space to explore a high level of creativity with recipes, designing plates and serving our food.

Where I found my strength in being creative was in the presentation of my dishes and how they get served. This has been my main focus since graduating from VCC and I have been able to showcase and promote this work of creativity on social media channels as well.

What inspired you at VCC?

Being a part of a motivated team with the same goals and passions was the most inspiring part of my experience at VCC. As a team, my fellow VCC students and I worked tirelessly, helped each other throughout the program and managed to meet all the deadlines and goals that we had set for ourselves.

Interested in seeing Yavar's work on Social Media? Follow Yavar's Instagaram and VCC reposts of his amazing work.

Five reasons an IT career may be in your future

Information Technology (IT) is the backbone of the digital economy. From financial transactions and e-commerce to entertainment and raising awareness for social causes, our daily lives rely upon the successful provisioning, maintenance, and management of IT infrastructure.

IT specialists are in demand. Check out the top five reasons to launch your IT career at Vancouver Community College (VCC):

1. Employer-developed programs

VCC offers two programs to international students in the IT realm: Network Technology, Administration and Security Post-Degree Diploma (2 years) and Network Security Advanced Certificate (8 months). The programs were built with feedback from employers, subject matter experts, and students. Students will be ready to launch a career in IT with a strong foundation in computer hardware, software, networks, and security.

2. VCC grads are career-ready

B.C.’s technology sector is growing fast. There are an expected 4,700+ jobs openings for computer network technicians and user support technicians. There are no shortage of job opportunities, from help desk, to desk-side support, and into third level support for various areas of IT management. These are among the high-opportunity occupations in B.C. offering some of the best openings over the next 10 years.

3. VCC programs are hands-on 

At VCC, students are trained by engaging in experiential and hands-on learning to manage incidents and resolve issues related to IT Operations, including applications and infrastructure components.

4. Good money

IT technicians earn higher than average wages. According to WorkBC, the average wages in this sector are approximately 75 per cent higher than the B.C. industrial average.

5. There’s always something new 

VCC understands that IT is a forever-changing environment that offers incredible work experiences in a fast-paced atmosphere. Being able to produce new solutions and staying on the cutting-edge of technology is satisfying and rewarding. If you are a lifelong learner, IT is the career for you.

Find your future. Learn more about studying at VCC as an international student at an upcoming information session or our Experience VCC online open house.

VCC Graphic Design student's online learning experience

Immanuel Villacorte is a student currently enrolled in VCC's Graphic Design Diploma. Immanuel is energetic and enthusiastic in plants, and loves to share how he manages to keep inspired while studying virtually.

In a Q & A format, Immanuel shared his VCC learning experience during the pandemic.

How are you finding the experience of studying from home?

I never really pictured myself taking this program 6,500 miles away from Vancouver, at home in the Philippines. But 2020 has been a strange year, and I decided to just go for it. Studying online has been a surreal experience so far and I can’t say it’s all good, but I do like how I can manage my time despite the drastic time difference.

Do you have a morning routine to get inspired before starting your classes? 

To remain inspired, creative, and productive, I always take the time to work out regularly and strike a balance between school, work, and exercise. I discovered this routine to be an effective way of lessening the likelihood of stress, anxiety, and procrastination. When we place prime importance on our well-being, I find that life becomes more enjoyable no matter the circumstances we’re in.

How are you keeping in touch with your classmates and instructors virtually?

My instructors in the Graphic Design Diploma program have all done an excellent job at delivering classes online, making it as immersive and adequately challenging as possible. Schoolwork has been my outlet for creative expression. Our class also gets along so well. I love how we connect to each other and form friendships even though most of us have not met in person yet. It’s a beautiful thing.

Interested in seeing Immanuel's work on Social Media? Follow Immanuel's Instagram and VCC reposts of Immanuel.

VCC Jewellery Art and Design Alumni learning experience

Juliana Jara is a recent graduate of VCC’s Jewellery Art and Design Diploma. Juliana is currently working as a Jewellery Designer & Assistant Production Manager at Ragnar Jewellers Design Studio, where she is creating beautiful and customized jewellery.

In a Q & A format, Juliana shared what she appreciated the most from her learning experiences at VCC. Her experiences can certainly inspire future jewellery designers who might be interested in this career.

What do you like most about VCC?

I love the cultural diversity at VCC. I met people and made friends from all over the world and I learned so much from and with them! (including the culinary student's bakery!)

What was the most creative thing you have done as a VCC student?

The most creative thing I did at VCC was my graduation project for the Jewelry program. We were in lockdown and we had to find a way to make jewelry with whatever we had at home and whatever tools we had available. It was very challenging but my instructors were very encouraging and I ended up loving my project made from plastic bottles.

What inspired you at VCC?

The gemmology lab classes! I hope to become a gemologist one day.

Interested in seeing Juliana's work on Social Media? Follow Juliana's Instagram and VCC reposts of Juliana.

Updates planned to VCC’s steel detailing certificate

As part of its modernization, the program offered by Vancouver Community College (VCC) recently changed its name from steel detailing to steel construction modelling.

“We made the name change to better reflect our focus on 3D modelling and what the industry is already doing,” said Ron Palma, a steel construction modelling technician instructor at VCC. “We also wanted to make the program sound more attractive to prospective students. Detailing sounded too much like washing cars.”

Palma says steel detailers/modellers don’t have a high profile and the nature of their work is not well known to everyone.

The technicians prepare detailed plans, drawings, and other documents for the manufacture and erection of steel members (e.g. columns, beams, braces, trusses, stairs, handrails, joists, and metal decking) that are used to construct buildings, bridges, industrial plants, and non-building structures. 

Aspiring detailers/modellers at VCC begin by learning basic drafting skills on AutoCAD. After completing that stage of their training, they move into the steel construction modelling specialty.

The program takes students through traditional steel detailing, such as creating various steel detailing drawings.

They learn about bolting, welding, and working with the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC) Steel Construction Handbook and fabricator standards, and they apply the skills they’ve learned in class on various commercial and industrial projects.

After they’ve finished their training and obtained their certificate from VCC, most steel detailers/modellers find employment with steel fabricators, engineering firms, or independent steel detailing companies.

VCC’s 10-month Steel Construction Modelling certificate program, as it is now called, runs from September to June. International students may apply to this program as part of the Computer Aided Draft and Building Information Modelling Technician Diploma.

Palma says the revamped program, apart from the name change, will feature an increase in software training, from six to 13 weeks.

Continue reading in Journal of Commerce >

Welcome to VCC – Winter 2021

Welcome new and returning students to Vancouver Community College! See below for information and resources to help you now and throughout your studies in 2021.

VCC convocation recap – Fall 2020

On Tuesday, Dec. 1, Vancouver Community College (VCC) held its first online convocation ceremony to honour the hard work, resilience, creativity, and success of 2,600 students from both Spring and Fall 2020.

The virtual graduation ceremony began at 1:30 p.m. with a territorial acknowledgment from Elder Deanna George, followed by a musical performance from M’Girl. The event was conducted on Zoom and streamed on Facebook Live for friends and family of the graduands. Separate Zoom rooms were set up to recognize students from the different Schools.

Degrees, diplomas, and certificates were awarded to the following areas:

• School of Health Sciences
• School of Hospitality, Food Studies and Applied Business
• School of Trades, Technology and Design
• School of Arts and Sciences
• Continuing Studies
• Library and Teaching & Learning Services

This ceremony also marked an important milestone for VCC as Ajay Patel was formally announced as the college’s president and CEO. Messages of congratulations from Melanie Mark, BC Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, as well as Jenny Kwan, Member of Parliament, Vancouver East, followed.  

As VCC’s Fall 2020 valedictorian, Medical Office Assistant graduate Charmaine Paragas addressed the Class of 2020 with words of wisdom, courage, and inspiration.

“Never let anyone dictate what you can and cannot do or achieve. Instead, I urge you to take those suggestions and turn it into the energy you need to set higher goals, to push yourselves further, and that will lead you to become the best version of yourself.”

Daniel Park, graduate from the Professional Cook program, was presented with the Lieutenant Governor’s Silver Award for his extensive work in multiple restaurants around the world. Cosmetology graduate Haruka Onishi was awarded with the Governor General’s Academic Medal for achieving the highest grade point average.

VCC Hairstyling and Design alumna Loni Yee, owner of The Collective Beauty Studio which donates ponytails for the charity initiative Wigs for Kids BC, addressed this year’s graduating class with the message:

"Many of you may have heard that 2020 is not a year to consider what you want, but to be appreciative of what you have. Please be kind, work hard, and success will come naturally."

Watch the Fall 2020 convocation video online.

• Zoom Room 1 (School of Trades, Technology, and Design, School of Arts and Sciences (including Music), School of Instructor Education)
• Zoom Room 2 (School of Health Sciences, Centre for Continuing Studies)
• Zoom Room 3 (School of Hospitality, Food Studies, and Applied Business)

Congratulations to our VCC grads! Learn about the perks and benefits you now receive as VCC alumni.

When there's snow, check online before you go

What to know about snow

As we gear up for the winter, we would like to prepare the VCC community in case of snow.

In the event the college closes due to inclement weather, employees and students will be asked not to travel to the campuses in an abundance of caution.

• Employees working remotely will continue as a regularly scheduled day.
• Employees who were scheduled to physically attend a campus will work remotely where possible.
  • Speak with your supervisor for direction.
• Classes that are online will continue as a regularly scheduled day.  
• Students who were scheduled to be on campus will be contacted by their instructor
  • Instructors will determine if a class can be held online, or if the class will need to be rescheduled.

Only CLOSURES due to weather will be communicated on the VCC homepage

Vancouver Community College (VCC) has a plan in place to ensure a timely and coordinated response to inclement weather. Please note that VCC will physically remain open during normally scheduled hours unless weather conditions pose a hazard to public safety.

Campus closures

VCC considers many factors when deciding to physically close the college. These include public transportation availability, road conditions, and forecasts.

VCC’s director of safety and security determines if the college buildings will close.

In the event of a campus or college-wide building closure(s), VCC will inform the community prior to 6:30 a.m. for morning/daylong closures, 11:30 a.m. for afternoon closures, and 3:30 p.m. for evening closures.

Where to check

VCC's homepage www.vcc.ca is the official source for college closure announcements. Look for an alert banner at the top of the page. If there is no alert banner, the college is open during normally scheduled hours.

Unexpected campus closures and other emergency messages will also be shared through:

VCC Alerts

Our emergency safety response system

It is highly recommended to sign up for VCC Alerts to receive email and/or text message notifications.

Social media

A message will be posted to VCC’s official Twitter account (@myVCC).

Local media

VCC will send an advisory to local radio and TV stations. Recommendations: CKNW 980 (AM) and News AM 1130 (AM)

Telephone

A message will be recorded on VCC’s general phone line (604.871.7000).

VCC student champions accessibility in national design competition

While Vancouver Community College (VCC) has always taken pride in welcoming learners of all abilities, it's our students who continue to champion accessibility in new and exciting ways.

In her winning entry to this year’s prestigious RGD Student Awards competition, VCC graphic design student Kylie Woo created a series of inspiring posters promoting American Sign Language (ASL) and awareness of the Deaf and hard of hearing community.

The posters, intended for the VCC Library, display common phrases that contain words like “speak” or “say” but replace them with the word “sign” and a corresponding ASL movement. In doing so, the posters challenge the viewer to understand familiar phrases from the perspective of a Deaf person, as well as recognize ASL as a widely used language.  

“I wanted my posters to be visually bold and strong while having a relevant message to raise awareness at the same time,” says Kylie. “As a designer, I learned many valuable lessons from this client project.”

National recognition 

Kylie’s posters were selected from over 800 entries from across Canada to win the $1,000 RGD Award for Accessible Design, which is sponsored by advertising and design firm BOLD.

“This is a very thoughtful campaign. I appreciate the research and thinking behind it. The use of colour, photography and bold typography create intrigue and drama,” commented competition judge Pia Nummi, Design Director at Canada Goose.

The RGD Student Awards program brings industry professionals together with emerging designers to promote excellence and encourage the highest levels of creativity and innovation.

Find your career in creativity. Learn more about VCC graphic design programs at an upcoming free information session.

Student Wellness Contest

How's the school year going so far? At Vancouver Community College (VCC), we're incredibly proud of the way our students have risen to the challenge of learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. We're so impressed, we created a social media contest to show, share, and celebrate VCC students' wellness and success. 

Student Wellness Contest

Throughout the month of November, VCC will be posting a weekly wellness question on Facebook and Instagram. All currently registered VCC students are invited to respond by commenting and entering to win a $50 Superstore gift card!

HOW TO ENTER

1. Follow VCC on Facebook or @myVCC on Instagram.
2. Respond to our weekly wellness question in the Comments.
3. Gain a bonus contest entry by tagging a friend to let them know about the contest!

CONDITIONS

• Participants may enter weekly, with one entry per week on Facebook or Instagram.
• Contest begins on Monday, Nov. 2 at 12 p.m. and ends on Friday, Nov. 27 at 11:59 p.m.
• The winner will be chosen at random at 5 p.m. on Friday at the end of each week. A total of four $50 Superstore gift cards will be awarded throughout the contest (one per week).
• Winners will be contacted via direct message (DM) on the platform on which they entered, and given instructions on how to claim their prize.
• Comments that are deemed inappropriate, offensive, or defamatory will be deleted and the participant disqualified. 

Make the most of your student experience by reaching out to our Counselling services, access resources through our Library, get free, professional help from a Learning Centre tutor, or speak with an International Student Advisor.

B.C. restaurants waiting out worker shortage

The heat is rising for B.C. restaurant owners, as they brace for the busy tourist season while scrambling to overcome a shortage of cooks and kitchen staff.

The shortage comes from an increase in the number of new restaurants, a lack of new staff to replace retiring baby boomers, and changes to the federal government’s temporary foreign workers program that cut the pool of labour to restaurants, industry observers say.

“I need three cooks right away,” Kamal Mroke, owner of India Bistro on Vancouver’s Davie Street, said Monday.

Mroke said he is starting work around 9 a.m. and finishing as late as midnight, doing kitchen work he would normally hire someone to do. “I would like to be up front promoting my restaurant, but I cannot find a skilled worker like a chef, anybody, to work in the kitchen.”

Mroke has been in business for the past 12 years, but he said he’s never worked as hard.

“I’ll go back myself, start cooking in the kitchen,” he said. “My feet are hurting.”

He said fellow restaurateurs are all facing similar staff shortages, and he worries about how they will handle the summer tourist traffic.

B.C. Restaurant Association President Ian Torstenson said the problem exists throughout B.C., and is most acute in restaurant kitchens.

“With wait staff, you’ve got all the university students, and you can train them fast,” Tostenson said. “But the technical side in the kitchen is where the problem is. We’re just not getting enough interest from people wanting to get into the business.”

The good news for the industry is a healthy provincial economy that has new restaurants opening to meet new demand. Their number stood at about 11,000 province-wide in 2013, with 200 to 300 added to that number each year since then, Tostenson said.

“The boomers are retiring, so that’s creating vacancies,” he added, noting that not enough young Canadians have replaced them.

Changes to the federal government’s temporary foreign worker program made just over a year ago choked off another flexible supply of workers, Tostenson said.

“That just stopped any ability for restaurants to get labour they can’t supply in the domestic market,” he said. “So now you’re seeing in a lot of cases an exhausted industry.”

Tostenson said young people haven’t taken up the opportunity represented by the demand for skilled restaurant workers.

“I think people sort of forgot about it,” he said. “You are learning a technical trade, by working in the kitchen, that carries you well. It’s a very transportable skill as well — you can take that and go to France or Africa, whatever you want to do.”

At Vancouver Community College, whose downtown campus houses the largest culinary arts program in western Canada, students are themselves feeling the pressure, as they take on paid kitchen jobs even before they complete their training.

“We’re seeing a bit of that, definitely,” said instructor Tobias MacDonald. “It seems a week doesn’t go by that I don’t get a phone call from somebody in industry looking for cooks. There’s real demand for skilled labour.”

VCC trains would-be cooks in the classroom for two technical levels — the first taking seven months and the second taking four months. That training can also be done by apprentices employed in kitchens, who can work between two-days-a-week classroom sessions. The two-day-a-week training was instituted this year because restaurants didn’t want to lose apprentices for five full-time training weeks each year.

Continue reading the full story in the Vancouver Sun.

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Are you an international student interested in VCC's industry-leading culinary arts training programs? Contact us by phone, email or visiting our office to get more details.

VCC prepares international students for employment in business and management.

VCC Instructor Joel Rivera conducts regular site visits to students in their practicum placements.

VCC’s Canadian Business Management Post-Degree Diploma provides international students with a solid foundation in business management and prepares them for employment in Canada. Students graduating from this program are equipped with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to manage the human, physical and financial resources and complex strategic and practical management issues that are present in today’s business environment.

Practicum, where students put into practice what they learn in a “real world” setting, is an integral part of the Canadian Business Management Post-Degree Diploma program. Students work closely with instructor and practicum coordinator, Joel Rivera, to explore career options, develop skills and professional networks, and enjoy their unique Canadian work experiences in different fields.

Joel has a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation, and has over 15 years of work experiences in key management and executive roles in hospitality and other fields in Vancouver. Joel has been assisting Canadian Business Management Post-Degree Diploma students with courses preparing them for workplace practicum, including resume writing, online branding, interview techniques, and career navigation and guidance. Joel also works closely with partners to source and secure placements for students, in addition to liaising with host employers to ensure students get practicum opportunities that suit them the best. Many students graduate from the program with great employment or promotion opportunities, thanks to their dedication and hard work in the practicum and throughout the program.

Find out how Joel prepares students for employment in Canada, and take a look at some pictures where our students are enjoying their practicum placements here. Thank you Joel, for making Canadian Business Management Post-Degree Diploma students’ dream to start a career in Canada come true!

Want to learn more about Canadian Business Management Post-Degree Diploma at VCC? Attend an online VCC International Info Session, or book an appointment with an International Student Advisor via phone or Zoom.

Turn your enthusiasm for music into a career at VCC

Originally published on the Georgia Straight

Imagine getting paid to do something that you love. How exciting would it feel to work every day as a musician, music teacher, or composer?

At Vancouver Community College (VCC) students are given the opportunity to turn their passion for music into a successful career.

This fall, the music department at VCC will deliver programming through a mix of in-person and online learning via Zoom and Moodle. Due to COVID-19, VCC has had to temporarily modify the ensembles, masterclasses, and rehearsals that typically take place at the Broadway campus to ensure the safety of students.

“VCC Music is a uniquely broad program, deeply exploring many ways of making music across all genres, styles, and time periods,” says Laurence Mollerup, music department leader at VCC. The industry-leading department was created in 1975.

Potential students can hone their skills and learn about the industry through three different programs offered at VCC.

The Bachelor in Applied Music is a two-year program with training that includes: advanced compositional techniques, solo and ensemble performance craft, music history and theory, improvisation, ear-training, and other skills. Graduates from this full-time program will also gain great insights into developing repertoire, supporting their career goals, marketing, copyright law, conducting, and much more. Many VCC graduates have gone on to study at notable universities all over the world.

Anyone looking to launch their own career in music should seriously consider enrolling in VCC’s two-year Diploma in Music program. Students can specialize in any genre including jazz, rock, contemporary, classical, and electronic music. Within the full-time program, students will study rehearsal methods, composition, instrumental and vocal technique, self-promotion and marketing, solo and ensemble performance psychology, ethnomusicology, orchestration, and more.

“We offer real-world training with specialized classes led by highly credentialed, award-winning professional musicians, composers, conductors, scholars, and educators,” says Mollerup.

READ MORE >

Hone your skills in the music genre of your choice. Learn about the music program by attending an information session online. 

Celebrate Pride Week 2020 online with the VCC community

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A message from VCC president and CEO Ajay Patel

As Vancouver heads into a very different Pride Week this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, what does not change is the importance for all of us to reflect on the storied history of LGBTQIA2S+ rights in our communities, our country, and around the world.  

In Canada, Pride happens from coast to coast throughout the summer. From the smallest communities in B.C. to major cities like Vancouver, allies and activists stand with our LGBTQIA2S+ community together to create space for dialogue, solidarity, and advocacy. 

This summer, Pride in Vancouver will be without the annual parade, one of my favourite Vancouver events every year – so how do we celebrate? 

At VCC, while we may not be able to wave our LGBTQIA2S+ flags together in person, we recommit ourselves to our work of creating inclusive, equitable, and safe spaces for all our students and employees. I also want to express my personal appreciation and gratitude to the Positive Space committee at VCC. Thank you for your efforts at VCC and in our community.

Vancouver Pride Society also has a number of wonderful online and accessible events and activities planned, and we at VCC will be sharing an array of wonderful content on our social media channels during Pride Week. I encourage everyone at VCC and in our community to engage in your own safe celebration. 

I wish you a kind, joy-filled Pride!

Sincerely, 

Ajay Patel
President and CEO
Vancouver Community College

VCC-trained chef finds “Phamily” success during COVID-19

Late last year, Vancouver Community College (VCC) Culinary Arts alumnus Brandon Pham had a big decision to make. With just over a decade of professional cooking under his belt, he was ready to take his next big step as a chef. But what would it be? 

Many cooks dream of opening their own restaurants. Others want to travel the world, host a TV show, or write a cookbook. Brandon, however, followed a desire to connect to his cultural roots that turned out to be one of the smartest moves of his career.  

The chef life

Growing up in Surrey, B.C., Brandon developed a love for food thanks to his mother’s Vietnamese cooking. This eventually led him to VCC’s culinary arts program. “I started cooking when I was 16,” he says, “but I really started cooking when I got to VCC.”

After completing his Professional Cook 1 training, Brandon went on to apprentice under now-VCC instructor Chef Hamid Salimian first at The Westin Wall Centre, then the prestigious Diva at the Met restaurant. 

“I was really, really lucky to be with Chef Hamid when he was at the restaurants,” says Brandon. “He taught me about life. My heart still races when he sends me encouraging messages. He’s still the chef.”  

Within a few years, Brandon’s promising career took him to Denmark, where he completed a stage at Michelin-starred restaurant AOC, while also working his off-days at equally acclaimed restaurants Noma and Relae. 

Back in Vancouver, Brandon continued building his resume at numerous local high-end restaurants and hotels, eventually earning his first promotion to Chef de Cuisine at Asian fusion restaurant Sai Woo.

“Brandon was just a teenager when he first came to VCC,” remembers VCC Culinary Arts department head Ysabel Sukic. “He got to where he is today with passion, perseverance, and unwavering commitment.” 

Home cooking 

While working in Denmark, Brandon says he was often asked about his Vietnamese heritage, but found he didn’t have many answers. “It made me realize I needed to go home and figure out my roots,” he says.

In 2017, Brandon took the leap and launched his own Vancouver catering business, The Phamily Table, aimed at bringing a Vietnamese-inspired “chef’s table” experience into peoples homes. “Everything just fell into place,” he says.  

Brandon’s catering business was still thriving when news of a coronavirus epidemic started coming in from China in December 2019. With incredible foresight, Brandon immediately transitioned his business model away from catering inside peoples’ homes to offering takeout meals. He also started pursuing a less-typical business plan to launch a product line of Vietnamese sauces. 

“I was being really hard on myself in December,” he says about developing the product line. “I thought it could turn out to be the worst mistake of my life!” 

Fortunately for The Phamily Table, demand for takeout meals has soared during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brandon's sauces, branded Re/de/fine foods, have also proven to be a popular item in grocery stores and are available at farmers’ markets across the region. “I love working with and supporting other local businesses,” says Brandon. “I’ve been very, very grateful.” 

For Brandon, creating his line of chili and lemongrass sauces has been especially meaningful because it’s allowed him to express his Vietnamese heritage using local, Canadian ingredients. “I didn’t realize farmers in B.C. can grow 300 varieties of chilies!” he says.

Most meaningfully, perhaps, the Re/de/fine product line also became tribute to Brandon’s parents and their immigrant experience. “This is something that will leave a legacy,” says the not-quite-30-year-old chef. “It honours my family. It shows that they didn’t come here for nothing.”

Do you want to make your mark in the culinary world? Start by learning from the best at VCC Culinary Arts. Sign up for an information session to get more information.

Vancouver fashion programs design their own take on virtual learning

Originally published in The Georgia Straight

Whether it’s learning to feel the difference between textile fibres or to steer an industrial sewing machine, fashion education comes with a hands-on element.

So what does that look like during social distancing, as instruction pivots to more e-learning? And how will that education shift as the entire fashion industry grapples with the challenges of fitting and producing garments during a lockdown that’s only gradually loosening? Local institutions are in the midst of finding that out, getting creative amid COVID-19 measures.

Over at Vancouver Community College’s fashion design and production program, coordinator Andrea Korens explains how shifts in the industry prepared her team well for the changes that are happening now. “One of the great things about working in fashion is we are so poised for a pivot already,” she observes. “I think we had less stress than other programs.”

Theory classes easily moved to virtual learning, and the school has found creative ways—both high- and low-tech—to translate more hands-on instruction with social distancing.

One example is VCC’s Fashion Cycle 4 collaborative garment-production class for custom clients. Though it had to be put on pause because of COVID-19, instructor Jason Matlo and producer Brenda Gilbert decided to donate their time to hosting a Zoom-based “What’s Next for Fashion” series. “They’re meeting with students every week about what’s coming up next in the market given the current climate, to keep them inspired and engaged,” Korens says.

Elsewhere, Korens has used a simple tactic message to get into the tactile world of teaching fabric and textile studies right now. “I am actually mailing them pieces—I’ve got swatches and I send them to them in the mail,” she says with a laugh, pointing out that, as she’s based at home, the fabric pieces are sitting all around her.

With large studio space at VCC and the chance to return with social distancing in the fall, she looks forward to finding ways use to the classroom with some new approaches.

CONTINUE READING >

Develop technical and business skills while expressing your creativity. Sign up for one of our free information sessions.

Four reasons the VCC music diploma program should be your first choice

1. Community is in our name for a reason. The instructors, staff and peers in the VCC music department are helpful to each other, and offer a tight-knit, collaborative and supportive community.

2. VCC music offers students a diverse choice in their education. Whether your concentration is in voice, instrumental, composition, or jazz, classical or contemporary, VCC music will find a major that fits with your focus and style.

3. Highly-engaged, professional faculty who bring their real world experiences into the classroom.

4. Career success. Just ask one of VCC’s many successful music alumni.

Daniel Ruiz, BESTiE drummer and VCC music alumnus, credits VCC music for giving him the confidence to explore his improvisational skills.

For more information, visit the webpage of the Music Diploma program.

Music can improve your quality of life

A recent article written for The Week, by Eric Barker, sites the ‘nine ways music can improve your life’. From helping you relax, to reducing pain, to making you a better person, music resonates within each and every one of us.

VCC welcomes instrumentalists and vocalists in rock and popular music, as well as classical, new music and music traditions from other cultures. VCC’s music department offers Music Diploma and Degree for international students to explore their passion for music.

Learn from the best instructors the province has to offer and study alongside a group of supportive and encouraging peers. 

Contact us to get more information about VCC's music programs.

VCC Hospitality students win LinkBC competition

On October 27th, the 7th annual LinkBC Student Case Competition kicked off the Connect Trade Show & Conference at the Vancouver Convention Centre, with a record 16 teams demonstrating leadership and business skills as they presented solutions to 2 topical case studies. Students presented their business cases to a panel of industry judges.

Vancouver Community College was announced as the winning team at Connect's Industry Lunch. The winning team, composed of Hospitality Degree students Khaled Attalaoui, Caitlin Cindric, Emma Dagg and Kathryn Gidluck took home a $500 prize.

 Find out more about Hospitality Management Diploma

Field trip takes VCC drafting students to new heights

Mann, what a field trip!

VCC drafting technician students (steel detailing) were given the chance of a lifetime on May 11, taking an end-of-semester tour of the ongoing Port Mann Bridge construction project.

Graham Huckin, department head, says VCC builds and maintains strong relationships with industry partners so that students can experience real world learning.

“Our students are always welcome for on-site tours of major construction projects in B.C., whether it’s the Port Mann Bridge, Canada Line or new cruise ship terminal."

VCC’s drafting technician programs consist of three specialties: architectural, architectural/civil/structural and steel detailing.

Culinary department head named Chef of the Year

‌Vancouver Community College’s (VCC) culinary arts department head, Chef Collin Gill was honored this weekend at the 40th Annual Presidents Ball where he took home the British Columbia Chef’s Association ‘Chef of the Year’ award. The event raises funds to provide scholarships to junior chefs in the province.

“I feel very honored to be named Chef of the Year. This award is also recognition for all that our department does in conjunction with the BC Chefs to serve the community, provide education, create scholarships, and deliver competitions,” says Chef Collin. “I feel this award is a tip of the hat for the VCC Culinary program, not only to myself.”

Read more about Chef Collin and his involvement with the VCC 50 Years 50 Chefs gala here.

Pictured at right: Dean of School of Trades, Dennis Innes with Department Head of Culinary Arts, Collin Gill.

Award winning chef joins VCC’s world class culinary school

You might call it VCC's catch of the day.

Award-winning Vancouver chef Hamid Salimian, a graduate of VCC's widely respected culinary arts program, is returning to teach a new generation of chefs.

Salimian is currently the executive chef at Diva at the Met, where he earned the prestigious distinction of being voted Vancouver's best chef by a group of industry peers. He'll be leaving his post in June to teach full-time at VCC.

Read more in the Georgia Straight

Find out more about the Culinary Arts Diploma program for international students.

VCC students participate in HomeGround

VANCOUVER, B.C. – VCC culinary arts' instructors and students partnered with HomeGround last week to provide lunches and dinners to 500 people from the Downtown Eastside. This community-building event gives homeless and under-housed residents the best food and entertainment for three days straight at the Carnegie Community Centre and Oppenheimer Park.

The students and chef instructors donated their own time to provide outstanding service and received affectionate thanks from the community. "VCC truly has community spirit and to have our students be part of this experience is an incredible opportunity to share in this spirit." says John-Carlo Felicella, chef instructor and VCC event lead.

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Alex’s story: family and fusion in the restaurant business

For many kids, growing up Canada today means juggling multiple cultures. While English at school or work may be the norm, many second- and third-generation Canadians are also working hard to keep their cultural heritage alive, be it through language, traditions, or food.

Alex Holliday was born and raised in North Vancouver, the third generation in a family of Chinese restaurant owners. Although he grew up helping his mother operate Capilano Heights Chinese Restaurant, he never worked the kitchen. Still, Alex had a passion for the business and a desire to carry on the family tradition.

It was while studying Chinese in Taipei that Alex and his girlfriend (now wife) Annie decided they wanted to open a restaurant together. First, though, Alex knew he needed industry training. “I wanted to learn more about my culinary heritage as well as how a professional kitchen works,” he says.

Growing up locally, Alex already knew that VCC’s Asian Culinary Arts program was the perfect fit. The five-month program, established in 1975, provides commercial culinary training in Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan food as well as other Asian cuisines such as Japanese, Malaysian, Thai, Singaporean, Vietnamese, and Korean. Courses also cover the business side of restaurant operations.

“The technical cooking skills that I learned were of course useful beyond measure,” says Alex, “but I think what I value most were the management skills.” He credits department head Barry Tsang with instilling in him the highest of standards. “Anyone can teach you how to fry rice, but it takes someone special to teach you how to run a kitchen,” he says.

Always driven to expand his horizons, Alex has since returned to Taipei where he now owns and operates the trendy Taiwanese-Cantonese fusion restaurant, Drunken Monkey (currently relocating).

Though the restaurant business seems to run through his veins, Alex maintains a strong appreciation for the hard work it took to learn the trade as well as keep connected to his culture.

“It was a bit of a journey for me,” he says. “I went to Asia to learn Chinese, came back to Vancouver to study culinary arts, and finally took this fusion of experience back to Asia where my grandfather set out from 70 years ago.”

New funding announced for cutting-edge automotive, culinary equipment

On Monday morning, Vancouver Community College welcomed Minister of Advanced Education Andrew Wilkinson to the Broadway automotive service technician shop to announce special funding of over $694,000 for the purchase of new trades-training equipment.

"BC is looking at a million job openings in the next 10 years,” said Minister Wilkinson, acknowledging that this period will also bring advances in technology that will increase efficiency, quality, and safety in the work of our tradespeople.

Training apprentices on the latest industry-specific equipment will be a key to employment and success in the future workforce, and especially in automotive trades, where technology continues to advance rapidly.

With this funding, VCC will purchase equipment such as training vehicles and parts for the automotive service technician program, 15-litre training engines for heavy-mechanical trades, and a mobile food station for culinary arts. 

VCC automotive service technician student James Tobin took part in the announcement, representing his classmates and expressing thanks. 

James’ first pursuit was to become a chef, but after having a child, found himself working at a Jiffy Lube instead. It was there that he realized he wanted to pursue a career in cars. “I’d like to end up at a performance shop working on high-end vehicles,” he says. “Maybe even own my own shop or study mechanical engineering.” 

Dustin Janzen, a VCC automotive graduate and independent owner of a Minit Tune and Brake Auto Centre, where he typically employs four to six VCC apprentices, also shared his support for the funding, and encouragement for students to be trained in the latest technology.

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Learn more: 

• News Release: VCC students benefit from new trades-training equipment
• VCC automotive service technology for international students
• VCC culinary arts for international students

VCC auto students assist with taxi safety inspections

Do you know if the taxi you’re flagging down will be safe to ride in?

It’s an important question and that’s why Vancouver Community College's automotive service technician program teamed up with the City of Vancouver's taxi inspector and police from Vancouver and Delta to perform vigorous safety checks on rebuilt taxis. The inspections took place over a two-day period inside the Broadway campus auto shop.

“We want students to get involved in the inspection process to help police, learn from police, and develop the same moral compass as certified technicians who wouldn’t allow a dangerous vehicle to hit the streets," says Jason Devisser, department head, automotive service technician program. “Real world experience is an important part of our curriculum.”

Students worked side-by-side with experts to look for things like brake or suspension issues and body work problems. Many vehicles that are written off are rebuilt into taxi cabs.

Police and the Vancouver Taxi Association added they are grateful that VCC is able to offer its full-service auto shop to help perform important services to keep the public safe.

Click here to read more about the program:
Automotive Service Technology Diploma for International Students

VCC hosts Skills Canada BC Competition

Do you know if the taxi you’re flagging down will be safe to ride in?

It’s an important question and that’s why Vancouver Community College's automotive service technician program teamed up with the City of Vancouver's taxi inspector and police from Vancouver and Delta to perform vigorous safety checks on rebuilt taxis. The inspections took place over a two-day period inside the Broadway campus auto shop.

“We want students to get involved in the inspection process to help police, learn from police, and develop the same moral compass as certified technicians who wouldn’t allow a dangerous vehicle to hit the streets," says Jason Devisser, department head, automotive service technician program. “Real world experience is an important part of our curriculum.”

Students worked side-by-side with experts to look for things like brake or suspension issues and body work problems. Many vehicles that are written off are rebuilt into taxi cabs.

Police and the Vancouver Taxi Association added they are grateful that VCC is able to offer its full-service auto shop to help perform important services to keep the public safe.

Automotive Service Technology Diploma

VCC students earn two medals at Skills Canada competition

Congratulations to all of VCC's Skills Canada competitors. You made the VCC community very proud!

	Adam Sliacky Age 17 Automotive refinishing - high school Delta, B.C.
	Ashlie Mackie Age 26 Skin and body therapy Vancouver, B.C.
	BRONZE WINNER Georgine Chung Age 19 Baking and pastry arts Chilliwack, B.C.
	Keith Stonehouse Age 25   Chilliwack, B.C.
	Kurtis Gordey Age 16 Automotive collision repair - high school Enderby, B.C.
	Meghan McDonell Age 26 Architectural drafting Vancouver, B.C.
	Michelle Macasling Age 24 Hair design
	GOLD WINNER Rachelle Garcia Age 18 Hair design - high school Maple Ridge, B.C.

VCC Hospitality Management programs prepare students for the return of tourism

Originally published in The Georgia Straight

With Vancouver being a popular destination for international and local travel, hospitality is one of the most important and lucrative industries in our city. Even though the pandemic has put travel on pause, there will be a pent-up demand in tourism and hospitality in the near future. The industry is extremely resilient. 

For those with dreams of working at a hotel or resort, or managing a restaurant, right now is the time to invest in your education. By registering for one of the online Hospitality Management programs at Vancouver Community College (VCC), you’ll be ready to start your career in either two or four years.

Prospective students can enroll in VCC's two-year diploma program or opt to take the full two-year bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. 

 “We give our students some restaurant experience in both the kitchen and front of house,” says Dennis Innes, dean of Hospitality, Food Studies, and Applied Business at VCC. “This way they gain an understanding of what goes into food preparation and cooking but also learn how to run the restaurant.”

Within both the diploma and degree program, students will also learn about service management, marketing, organizational behaviour, sales, accounting, communications, law, and more. “Students can expect to cultivate many transferable skills, like problem solving, empathy, critical thinking, and customer service,” says Innes. “Having a good understanding of customer service will help you in any job position.” 

VCC’s diploma program provides students with a well-rounded introduction to the industry whereas the degree allows students to dive deeper into the areas that they enjoy most. “Hospitality and tourism will come back and be a vibrant industry once again,” says Innes. “Our programs teach students a fulsome range of skills so that they can successfully enter the industry once it bounces back.”

Get more info about how to become an international student at VCC on Friday, June 26. RSVP NOW >

How trades schools are thriving in the new normal

VCC automotive student using virtual reality (VR) automotive welding technology on campus 

Originally published in The Province

Teaching the trades has always been about learning by doing. Whether it’s welding, mechanics, electrical, carpentry, or even hair cutting, much of the instruction is hands-on and this makes COVID-19 a unique challenge for educators in the trades.

Vancouver Community College (VCC) was forced to quickly come up with options for its trade programs when the campus shut down in March, said Brett Griffiths, the dean of trades, technology, and design.

They shipped off mannequins to hairstyling students isolating at home, and estheticians-in-training practised on family members and filmed the process. Mechanics programs turned to Zoom, and with Go Pro cameras, students and instructors did deep dives into engines.

Now the welding and automotive painting programs at VCC are enhancing their at-home learning options with virtual reality, and the technology is so promising they will likely continue to use it when COVID-19 restrictions ease.

“We are rolling out a new virtual reality program for welding and automotive painting, and it’s the first of its kind in Canada,” said Griffiths.

Virtual reality has advantages for welding: there are no sparks or fumes and no danger for learners, and studies show that training with welding simulators increases proficiency, said Griffiths.

The college already had a virtual reality booth onsite for welding but the technology wasn’t transportable. Now it is.

VCC worked with a software engineering company in India to design the VR welding and painting practice program, and bought the computers and virtual reality headsets that will allow students to practice at home.

“Through gameification students can use the VR and the hand controller to practice distance speed and angle. It helps to train them up before they get into the shop and can help bring that experiential piece,” said Griffiths.

Of course, eventually students will have to spray a real panel on a car, and glove up and weld a real door. Griffiths said the college will soon be hosting smaller cohorts for on-site portions of their programs, and is adapting their shops to meet WorkSafeBC guidelines so everyone feels comfortable and stays safe.

At VCC, one unexpected side effect of the pandemic has been an uptick in applications from domestic students, said Griffiths. “We seem to have seen an increase in domestic student enrolment, and it may have more to do with the current labour market… it’s a good time to get a trade.”

Learn how you can get thorough, in-demand automotive and heavy equipment training with VCC Transportation Trades. 

VCC chef Tobias MacDonald explains how program has adapted to new reality

Originally published in The Georgia Straight

Vancouver Community College’s culinary arts program has earned a reputation as one of the best training grounds for B.C. chefs. Grads have gone on to work at such respected places as Fairmont Hotels, Earls Kitchen and Bar, Pan Pacific Hotel Vancouver, and Hawksworth Restaurant, among many others.

COVID-19 isn’t putting a pause on developing the chefs of tomorrow.

Chef instructor Tobias MacDonald is a certified master chef who has been teaching at VCC for the past eight years.

When he received the CMC title, the highest culinary designation in Canada, in 2015, he was just the second person to do so. Only four other people in the country hold the esteemed rank.

It’s just one of several culinary achievements for MacDonald. He competed with Culinary Team Canada over a period of several years and helped it earn multiple gold medals at the Culinary Olympics. He has also coached Culinary Team Canada, as well as the junior national team. From 2010 to 2012, he qualified to represent Canada in the World Association of Chefs Societies’ Global Chefs’ Challenge, winning the semifinals for North and South America and placing third in the finals in South Korea.

Although the global pandemic hasn’t stopped VCC from training future chefs, operations look much different now than they did in the recent past.

Three of the VCC kitchens have transformed into commissary space where support staff prepares meals for residents of the Downtown Eastside.

“Otherwise, it is a bit of a ghost town,” MacDonald tells the Straight. “Students have been all working remotely since mid-March and will continue to until we get the Provincial Health Officer guidelines in the next few weeks.”

There’s a Zoom lecture daily to provide the theory and academic side, as well as activities, quizzes, and assignments via a Moodle online classroom. Students are also tasked with completing short essays (or video essays), a small research project, and other assignments.

CONTINUE READING >

Learn the latest culinary techniques from VCC's award-winning chefs. Sign up now for our next free information session.

COVID-19 update – VCC open, transitioning to alternative delivery

VCC is open, transitioning to alternative delivery to allow students to continue programs

A message from Ajay Patel, Interim President of Vancouver Community College

To students and employees at VCC,

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this very challenging and complex time. Vancouver Community College (VCC) continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation and has the health of our college community, students, and employees as our top priority.

The VCC Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and deans met today to discuss additional measures on how we can maintain social distancing on campus to minimize close contact with each other. This is in alignment with the guidance from the Provincial Health Officer, and we are working with the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.

Until further notice, our campuses will remain open and services will continue to be provided. The college will continue to review its actions as the situation evolves.

Alternative program delivery

Where possible and reasonable, VCC is transitioning to alternative modes of instruction and assessment for the rest of the term, which may include online delivery for some students.

Given the wide range of programs and courses at VCC, it will take time to transition to these new measures. Classes will continue as scheduled unless students learn otherwise from their instructors, who will be taking guidance from their department leaders and deans.

Because of the diversity of the types of programs we offer, we recognize that not all programs, courses, labs, and shops may be suited to alternative deliveries. Our deans will be working with instructors, departments, and program areas to determine whether and how best to accommodate alternative methods of instruction and assessment. Students will learn of the changes affecting them through their instructors as the changes are implemented. 

COVID-19 and the VCC community

This step is being taken out of an abundance of caution and a desire of VCC to do its part in helping to contain the spread of COVID-19. It is important to note that, at this time, there are no known COVID-19 cases at VCC. At this point, there is no direction from the Provincial Health Officer to close campuses, and the risk of infection remains low.

Providing a safe and healthy learning and working environment for students and employees is a focus for our deliberations and decision-making in these matters. We also want to ensure that students receive the education and assessment that will deliver the learning outcomes they seek.

What is VCC doing?

Our announcement on Friday, March 13 was the latest in a series of steps we have already taken as we have followed the guidance of the Provincial Health Officer and health authorities. In response, other recommendations from government that we have put into place include:

• All events over 250 people are cancelled until the end of April 2020.

• All events planned to take place on VCC campuses within in the next two months will be reviewed. Information about cancellations or postponements will be shared as soon as possible.

• All VCC work-related travel outside of Canada is cancelled immediately until further notice. We recommend against all travel outside of Canada, including to the United States.

• Staff and students returning to VCC from travel outside of Canada are asked to self-isolate for 14 days before returning to work. VCC is working with government and other agencies to determine best approach and implications for those who self-isolate.
  
  
• All external bookings for meeting space have been cancelled on all of our campuses (to be reviewed end of April).
  
  
• Additional cleaning measures have been implemented at all our campuses, as well as distribution of additional hand-sanitizing stations and posting of information about recommended measures to help avoid the spread of the virus.

My gratitude to all students and employees for your hard work and understanding during this challenging time. It is our desire to ensure students complete their studies this term.

Please continue to visit vcc.ca/bulletins for updates and relevant information.

Ajay Patel
President and CEO (Interim)
Vancouver Community College

Fall convocation recap

Congratulations graduates!

Convocation is a special day where we recognize the hard work and dedication put forth by our graduates.

Photos from the fall event can be found on VCC's official Flickr account.

Here's a short recap from our fall ceremonies:

• VCC celebrated over 1,400 graduates with three ceremonies.
• The amazing VCC convocation band was comprised of five current and/or graduating students from VCC's music program: Jason Smith, Adam Kerby, Nial Harvey and Max Ley.
• Winners from our were honoured.
• Three valedictorians represented their fellow graduates during the ceremonies: ‌Michelle Lum, Mandy Sze Nga Yeung and Naomi Phillips.

 
Michelle Lum
Michelle is a graduate of VCC’s Dental Hygiene Diploma program.
After completing the Certified Dental Assisting program at VCC, Michelle worked as a certified dental assistant while continuing her education and pursuing a career in dental hygiene.

"I've worked hard to continue my education and pursue a career in dental hygiene. Since graduating from this program, I've already found a job in a dental office as a registered dental hygienist. My next step is to complete my dental hygiene degree and work towards my goal of becoming an instructor."

Representing: School of Health Sciences and School of Transportation Trades

Mandy Sze Nga Yeung
Mandy is a graduate of VCC's Baking and Pastry Arts Certificate program.
After graduating from university with a degree, Mandy decided to pursue her true passion - pastry.

‌“I've always had a passion for food and am so happy I chose this path. I had a wonderful experience competing in both the B.C. and national skills competitions. I'm excited to be working in this field and hope to one day travel the world and learn new pastry trends and techniques.”

Representing: School of Hospitality and Business (hospitality programs), and School of Music, Dance and Design.

Naomi Phillips
Naomi is a graduate of VCC's Administrative Assistant program.
After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in political science from university, Naomi came to VCC and completed the administrative assistant program.

‌"I chose to attend VCC to gain practical skills and build more confidence in my professional competencies. I'm now working towards completing VCC's Legal Administrative Assistant program. I'm grateful VCC has given me the opportunity to be prepared for what lies ahead."

Representing: School of Arts and Science; School of Hospitality and Business
(business programs), School of Language Studies, Centre for Continuing Studies and Contract Training, and
Centre for Teaching, Innovation and Applied Research (School of Instructor Education)

Study Online at VCC this Spring/Summer!

If you are an international student in Vancouver, choose VCC for your Spring/Summer program!

The majority of VCC programs scheduled to start in the Spring/Summer 2020 term will proceed using online learning and alternative delivery modes. 

International students studying online at VCC can take advantage of our expertise and remote delivery services such as:

• VCC’s instructors are experienced in online teaching and we have in-house expertise for online instruction
• VCC’s Centre for Teaching, Learning and Research specializes in instructional excellence and provides expertise and support to students and faculty for online and alternate modes of instruction
• VCC has online resources for students including free tutoring, library materials, counselling services, and career guidance
• VCC has virtual international student services such as academic course planning, online orientation, tips and resources about studying in Canada, and we can connect by phone, email or zoom
• VCC uses electronic textbooks and open-source courseware
• VCC has smaller classes  so communication flows easily online
• VCC’s online programs are eligible for the post-graduation work permit

Are you worried about your eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) being affected by studying online?

According to Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship and Canada (IRCC), students' eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program won’t be affected if their classes are moved to an online-only format due to COVID-19, including those who are unable to travel to Canada at this time due to travel restrictions.

Make VCC your first choice and start now to meet your educational goals and make the most of your studies. VCC international programs available for Spring/Summer intake include:

• Automotive Collision and Refinishing Diploma
• Automotive Service Technology Diploma
• Business and Project Management Post-Degree Diploma
• Canadian Business Management Post-Degree Diploma
• Computer Systems Technology Diploma
• Culinary Arts Diploma
• Hospitality Management Diploma

If you have a valid study permit and want to start at VCC this Spring/Summer, call our advisors at 604-443-8600 or email study@vcc.ca.

You can also visit our website at www.vcc.ca/international

COVID-19 update – VCC pausing all face-to-face instruction for the time being

Find answers to COVID-19 frequently asked questions

A message from Ajay Patel, Interim President of Vancouver Community College

Watch an American Sign Language (ASL) version of this message 

VCC students and employees, 

As VCC continues to receive updated information and guidance about the COVID-19 pandemic from the Provincial Health Officer and the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training, I would like to update you on VCC program delivery and operations, campus services, and ongoing health and wellness for the VCC students and employees.The college, along with the public post-secondary system in B.C., remains open as directed by the Provincial Health Officer. Please remember, as the recommended response to COVID-19 continues to change, so too may the information. 

I want to extend my personal gratitude and thanks to everyone for the collaborative and extensive work by all of you, in a very short and disruptive time, to make the shifts and changes to the way we deliver education and operate.  I am heartened to see the support and care for each other, and inspired by the innovation and creativity many of you are showing in situations where time is of the essence.  You have all been REMARKABLE! 

1. Delivery of programs for students next week

This week, the Emergency Operations Committee (EOC), faculty, instructors and staff have put a tremendous amount of work into shifting course delivery from in person to online or alternative methods. These adaptations have been made to support the continuity of teaching and learning through the evolving situation of COVID-19. Our overarching goal is to ensure we are actively contributing to society’s greater efforts to stop the spread of the virus.

With most of our programs moving to alternate methods of delivery, we are pausing all face-to-face classes for the time being. Alternative delivery methods that have been established will continue to take place. We will continue to monitor the situation and update students accordingly.

At this time, our educational leadership teams are continuing to assess what needs to happen with some of these complex, hands-on courses and programs that are not easily shifted to on-line delivery. We understand that this uncertainty can be frustrating and worrisome for students and faculty. 

Instructors will be in communication with students about delivery and service changes soon, if they have not already done so.

2. Staff and the ongoing operations of VCC

VCC is currently transitioning to have some VCC staff working remotely. For employees wanting or needing to continue to come to work, plans and approaches are being developed to provide as much flexibility based on the provincial health officer’s guidelines.

3. Access to campus services

To ensure we are actively supporting ‘social distancing’ recommendations from the health authorities, we are temporarily moving all in-person/face-to-face on-campus services for students and the public, to online/phone call only options. 

For detailed information about accessing campus services online go to: vcc.ca/bulletins/covid19-faqs

4. Health & Wellness 

As a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, you may be worried about the health and safety of yourself or your family and friends. This is a challenging and uncertain time. It is not uncommon to experience higher levels of stress and feelings of being overwhelmed. If this is your experience, please seek help and support.

Counselling and supports are available online to students and VCC employees who are affected by COVID-19. We encourage everyone who may need support at this time to contact one of the following services:

Students: Counselling Services or 24-hour emergency lines 

Employees: Employee & Family Assistance Program

Also, the BC Ministry of Health developed a COVID-19 symptom self-assessment tool to help determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19. Guidance and recommendations from the Provincial Health Officer are available online at the BC Pandemic Preparedness website. Monitor the BC Centre for Disease Control website for updates, information and resources.

For non-health related COVID-19 questions (e.g. supports, programs, etc), a new dedicated phone line is available at 1-888-COVID-19.

Ajay Patel
President and CEO (Interim)
Vancouver Community College

COVID-19 update – VCC temporarily suspending face-to-face instruction for the week

Find answers to COVID-19 frequently asked questions

To mitigate further risk to the spread of COVID-19, we are closing face to face/in person registration at VCC.

Registration for Spring 2020 will open online at 8:30 a.m. on March 19, 2020.

Application information can be found here:
https://www.vcc.ca/applying/apply-now/

The Registrar's Office will not be open for in person registration.

Please register online or call 604.871.7000 and press option 4 for assistance.

Payments can be paid online:
https://www.vcc.ca/applying/registration-services/fees-and-payments/

VCC temporarily suspending face-to-face instruction and moving to alternate modes of delivery

A message from Ajay Patel, Interim President of Vancouver Community College

Watch an American Sign Language (ASL) version of this message. 

March 16, 2020

Dear VCC community,

Thank you for your patience and understanding during a very challenging and complex time. Vancouver Community College (VCC) will be temporarily suspending all in-person classes for the rest of the week beginning Tuesday, March 17 in order to transition to alternative modes of program and course delivery where possible.

VCC campuses will remain open and student services will be available during this time, although services for students may be modified. We encourage students to contact our offices online and by phone.

We realize that this is a very stressful time for many students and employees. These steps are being taken out of an abundance of ongoing caution and a desire for VCC do its part in promoting social distancing and containing the spread of COVID-19. It is important to note that there are currently no confirmed COVID-19 cases at VCC.

Alternative program delivery at VCC

Specific modes of alternative program delivery will be determined by individual VCC departments. Instructors will contact students with guidance about alternative modes, which may include online instruction, and assessment, or other forms of non-face-to-face learning. This process will be in place for the foreseeable future.

Given the wide range of programs and hands-on courses at VCC, the transition time will vary, and instructors have been asked to contact students as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and patience in this process. Alongside these increased health and safety precautions, VCC is committed to helping students continue their programs, where possible.

Commercial services closed 

VCC has many programs that support student-run commercial services throughout the college that serve the public. Until further notice, all commercial services will be closed, including the Dental Clinic, Salon and Spa, Automotive Shop, Seiffert’s Market, the Bistro, and JJ’s Restaurant.

This situation surrounding COVID-19 is unprecedented and stressful, but we are a resilient community. Thank you, not only for your patience with college decision making, but also for supporting one another mentally and emotionally at this time. At VCC, we greatly value the health and wellbeing of all our students and employees, and we will continue to follow the advice of health officials in order to come through this together.

Ajay Patel
President and CEO (Interim)
Vancouver Community College

To mitigate further risk to the spread of COVID-19, we are closing face to face/in person registration at VCC.
Registration for Spring 2020 will open online at 8:30 on March 19, 2020. 
Application information can be found here:https://www.vcc.ca/applying/apply-now/
The Registration Office will not be open for in person registration. Please register online or call 604-871-7000 and press 4 for assistance. Payments can be paid online: https://www.vcc.ca/applying/registration-services/fees-and-payments/

VCC hosts Skills Canada BC Competition

VCC was excited to host the Skills Canada BC high school Automotive Service Tech and Junior Skills Spaghetti Bridge regional competitions. Gold medal winners have qualified and will compete at the provincial competitions held on April 9, 2014 at Tradex in Abbotsford.

Congratulations to the winners and participants! In the Automotive Service Technician – high school category, Justin To, Windermere Secondary, won Gold; Josue Perez, Killarney Secondary, won Silver; and Ajay Malik, Gladstone Secondary, won Bronze. In the Spaghetti Bridge – junior skills category, Templeton Secondary won Gold, Rockridge Secondary won Silver and Queen Mary Elementary won Bronze.

Try-a-trade

The Skills Canada BC regional event was also a wonderful opportunity to invite high school students to watch the competitions and take part in VCC’s second annual Try-a-trade event. Five hundred students from 17 different high schools sampled applied learning at VCC – including Automotive Service Technology, Baking & Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts, Digital Graphic Design, Drafting, Hairstylist Certificate, Jewellery Art and Design Diploma, and Esthetics Certificate. Students and teachers tried their freshly-manicured hands at welding, spray painting and tire repair. There were also opportunities to learn about Aboriginal education at VCC, interact with a science display, make marzipan roses and take the culinary challenge of turning a potato.

VCC chef on Food Network

Watch and root for Shelley Robinson, VCC chef instructor for the culinary program, when she competes against 13 other chefs on Food Network’s no. 1 series, Top Chef Canada, starting March 10.

“Chef-instructor Shelley Robinson exudes confidence in the kitchen and her passion for food translates to the students. The fact that she keeps putting herself out there teaches students the need to test their skills – no matter how much training and experience they have,” says Collin Gill, department head for VCC’s culinary arts program.

Robinson appeared on Food Network's Chopped Canada in January and beat out three competitors. The Vancouver Sun featured the chef in a recent article.

VCC hosts Skills Canada BC Competition

VCC was excited to host the Skills Canada BC high school Automotive Service Tech and Junior Skills Spaghetti Bridge regional competitions. Gold medal winners have qualified and will compete at the provincial competitions held on April 9, 2014 at Tradex in Abbotsford.

Congratulations to the winners and participants! In the Automotive Service Technician – high school category, Justin To, Windermere Secondary, won Gold; Josue Perez, Killarney Secondary, won Silver; and Ajay Malik, Gladstone Secondary, won Bronze. In the Spaghetti Bridge – junior skills category, Templeton Secondary won Gold, Rockridge Secondary won Silver and Queen Mary Elementary won Bronze.

Try-a-trade

The Skills Canada BC regional event was also a wonderful opportunity to invite high school students to watch the competitions and take part in VCC’s second annual Try-a-trade event. Five hundred students from 17 different high schools sampled applied learning at VCC – including Automotive Collision & Automotive Refinishing, Automotive Service, Baking & Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts, Digital Graphic Design, Drafting, Hairstylist Certificate, Jewellery Art and Design (Diploma), and Esthetics Certificate. Students and teachers tried their freshly-manicured hands at welding, spray painting and tire repair. There were also opportunities to learn about Aboriginal education at VCC, interact with a science display, make marzipan roses and take the culinary challenge of turning a potato.

New International Students: Welcome to the Spring/Summer 2020 term!

VCC International Education would like to provide a warm welcome to new international students enrolled in the Spring/Summer 2020 intake from the following programs: 

• Automotive Collision and Refinishing Diploma
• Automotive Service Technology Diploma
• Baking & Pastry Arts - Pastry Certificate
• Business Project Management Post-Degree Diploma
• Canadian Business Management Post-Degree Diploma
• Cosmetology Diploma
• Computer Systems Technology Diploma
• Culinary Arts Diploma
• Esthetics Certificate
• Hairstylist Certificate
• Hospitality Management Diploma
• University Transfer

Please note that there will not be an orientation taking place prior to the start of classes.  The International Education department will be sending a pre-arrival email with more information about how to prepare for the start of the academic program.  If you have any questions, please email ieservices@vcc.ca.

International Info Session 2020

International students at VCC are always being unique and successful!

‌How’s 2020 going so far?

Get inspired for the new school year by reading 2019’s most popular VCC International Students, instructors, and alumni stories.

1. VCC students rank high at WorldSkills Kazan 2019 

Two outstanding apprentices recognized for excellence on the global stage
 

2. Nespresso national competition finds pastry prodigies at VCC 

Six VCC baking students craft coffee-themed sweets for Nespresso Café Gourmand
 

3. Top Skills Canada performances launch VCC students onto the world stage 

VCC to compete in baking and culinary arts at WorldSkills 2019 in Russia

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VCC Hospitality Management alumni student

Meet the inspirational VCC Hospitality Alumni student Daniel Lopez

Hospitality management provides a lot of exceptional experiences, where the students have a chance to grow their leadership career and skills, and create the most rewarding experience when they are learning about not only delivering a service but also creating the best valuable experience and memories for their guests.

Daniel Fernando Moliterno Lopez Bravo is from Brazil and graduated in April 2017 from VCC Hospitality Management Diploma. He use to work for one of the most sophisticated hotels in Vancouver - "Right after graduating from VCC in April 2017, I was promoted to Housekeeping Supervisor at Fairmont Pacific Rim and left the property in November 2018 to start a new chapter at Rosewood Hotel Georgia as a housekeeping supervisor for the PM operation."

Working in the Hospitality field in Vancouver can give you an extensive background and help you grow your Hospitality career:

"As a housekeeping supervisor at Rosewood, I was responsible for managing the assignment of the room attendants and overlook the activities of the house person and laundry attendants. The PM supervisor helps the morning team to assure room readiness for the arriving guests and make sure the quality delivered is as expected. I was also responsible for elaborating on the Turn Down assignment and the execution of it, always ensuring the quality of the operation."

Today as a customer experience manager with Air Canada, Daniel manages a team of 200 employees who are responsible for loading and unloading the bags of our valued customers in the most efficient and safe manner - "Air Canada has given me a great opportunity to showcase my abilities as a leader and also an enormous chance to learn and grow alongside our 'flag carrier'. I can only see personal and professional growth from now on due to an outstanding educational and professional background."

Daniel is proud of where he is working and all the experience he is getting, focusing on the quality of the operation quality and learning from his team as well.

VCC Tip:

Working in the hospitality industry can be rewarding. Check out these 8 inspiring videos from TED talks for Hospitality students to get the motivational boost you need to become a hospitality student and find success in the hospitality industry!

Let's connect

Follow VCC International Education on Instagram and Facebook Group to stay up to date on college news such as campus closures, stories and announcements. Feel free to send us messages and questions, or share your own photos and stories using the hashtag #vccinternational.

Smaller classes and a pathway to SFU

VCC is now offering two new University Transfer certificate programs that will enable students to gain assured admission into second-year SFU applied science degree programs.

“By offering these courses, we will provide students in the Lower Mainland an opportunity to transfer seamlessly into second year at SFU,” says Dr. Andy Sellwood, department head, science, school of access, VCC.

The first-year University Transfer Engineering (SFU or UBC transfer) and Computer Science and Software Systems certificate programs provide students with the opportunity to explore options and demonstrate success at the first-year level of university studies. Students will gain transfer credits to the SFU Engineering Science, Computing Science or Software Systems degree programs.

Join us at an upcoming info session for UT Engineering or UT Computer Science and learn more about these programs! 

VCC also offers a number of other University Transfer options throughout the year.

VCC International students claim bronze in international Cantonese food championship

‌

Last month in Macau, elite chefs from more than 40 countries faced off at the 2019 World Master Chefs Competition for Cantonese Cuisine (WMCCCC). Among the culinary professionals were two graduates of Vancouver Community College’s (VCC) Asian culinary arts program — who not only competed but also earned bronze in the dim sum category.

“I think it was their passion, patience, and creativity,” says Barry Tsang, VCC’s Asian culinary arts department head, who handpicked Yuanyin (Doris) Lau and Simin (Joey) Zhou for the competition. “I saw their performance in class and I knew they’d do well.” 

Lau and Zhou spent six weeks designing, testing, practicing, and perfecting a secret dim sum (steamed dumpling) recipe. What they unveiled at WMCCCC was a dessert with a transparent dough in the shape of a sea lion with a purple yam and sesame paste stuffing. The creation brought forth both international students’ strengths, as Lau had experience in baking and pastry arts and Zhou received professional dim sum training in Mainland China. 

“They also had the foundation they got from the Asian culinary arts program and they were able to use that because in the program we make everything from scratch, including our own dim sum wrappers and filling,” says Tsang. 

This isn’t VCC’s first win at WMCCCC. In 2017, 19-year-old VCC alumnus Tristan Toderan and partner Dylan Viray claimed silver in the entrée category. The wins, says Tsang, are a testament to the Asian culinary arts program’s long history of preparing students for the real world. In fact, in 2020, the offering will celebrate its 45th anniversary — making it the longest running full-time program of its kind in North America, according to Tsang.

“This program started in 1975 and the fact that we continue to have students every single intake tells me we are doing something right,” says Tsang. “During the five months, students spend a lot of time in the kitchen learning to prepare 150 dishes from places like China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. That prepares them to work in any Asian restaurant.”

See more photos from the 2019 World Master Chefs Competition for Cantonese Cuisine.

VCC's Asian culinary course deliciously unique

For the past 41 years, students at North America’s only Asian Culinary Arts program have been learning the techniques of cooking Cantonese cuisine with additional lessons in Mandarin and Szechuan cooking, dim sum and barbecue. However, as the Lower Mainland’s population and industry demand have evolved, so has the programming at the Vancouver Community College (VCC) offering.

“In 1975, there weren’t many Chinese restaurants and the ones that were around had a hard time hiring people, so VCC wanted to train local people who were originally from China and Hong Kong so they could earn a living,” explains Barry Tsang, himself a former student of the program and the head of VCC’s Asian culinary arts department. “Now, the students are from all over the world and Vancouver’s restaurant scene changed so we expanded to include more Southeast Asian countries.”

And while the full-time, 20-week offering covers theory and practical training in the classroom and in a fully equipped commercial kitchen, which operates in conjunction with a cafeteria open to the public, it isn’t only for those looking to launch a culinary career, says Tsang.

“All the recipes we taught used to be commercial so they couldn’t be made at home but now we include recipes students can make at home,” he says. “So, some of our students are just looking to learn new skills they can enjoy with their family and friends. But all of those who apply need to have a passion and love cooking.”

During their time in the certificate program, students learn to prepare and cook meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables using cooking methods such as stirfrying, pan-frying, deep-frying, broiling, braising and steaming. Also covered are food safety and sanitation standards as well as the business side of restaurant operations, including food purchasing, and inventory procedures.

“After two or three months, I can really see confidence building up in students and see they are becoming professionals,” says Tsang. “When they finish here, students should be able to work in restaurants that specialize in Chinese cuisine.”

VCC’s Asian Culinary Arts program has two intakes per year, one in February and the other in September.

__________________________________________________

Original article published in Metro Vancouver.

Special Immigration Canada Presentation to VCC International Students!

Representatives from Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada and the BC Provincial Nominee Program will give a joint presentation to VCC international students. Come and learn about your study, work and immigration options!  See the IRCC BC PNP presentation poster for more details.

Date: Thursday, March 28, 2019

Time: 2:00 to 4:00pm

Location: Room 112, Downtown campus

Details: No need to register.  VCC student ID required to check in from 1:45. Must arrive on time. Space is limited.

• learn about the provincial and federal immigration pathways to B.C.
• hear an update on provincial immigration priorities
• get detailed information about the federal Express Entry system and how it works
• gain a practical understanding of the new BC PNP Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS) including how the Points system relates to invitations to apply
• speak directly with staff from IRCC and BC PNP
  

Women’s work: meet the new generation in automotive trades

On their first day of school in Vancouver Community College’s (VCC) automotive refinishing technician program, Meghan Kelsi, Aleah Simensen, Lydia Terry, Jolene Orr, and Jessica Jensen (pictured, left to right) each fully expected to be the only woman in the room.

Instead, there were five. “It was weird, all these women just kept funneling in!” says Jolene, 23, who came to VCC for her apprenticeship training, after already earning an auto body certificate from a private facility.

“I walked in and was like, yeah ladies!” says Aleah, 19, who already had five years' experiece working in a friend's auto body shop, and always knew this career was for her.

While this cohort may seem unique today (women represent only 4.5 per cent of Canada’s trades workforce), many colleges, government bodies, and industries are hoping to radically increase the number of women in trades in the near future.

One recent effort by the B.C. government is its Women in Trades labour market project, through which it worked with industry partners to identify barriers like bullying and harassment that prevent women from entering or staying in trades careers. It also offers solutions for improving workplace culture and increasing mentorship opportunities. 

Do women already succeeding in trades think such initiatives are needed? VCC’s auto refinishing techs say yes.

Talking shop

Meghan, 24, started automotive trades training while still in high school and graduated at the top of her class. She was nearly finished her third year of an automotive service technician apprenticeship when she decided her work environment was simply too hostile and switched into refinishing. “It’s easy to get jobs, but getting taken seriously and treated humanely—that’s a different story,” she says. 

Regarding the government project, Meghan believes it’s something that should have been done 50 years ago, but is glad it's happening now. The others agree, each sharing workplace stories ranging from getting ignored or stared at inappropriatel to being outright told that she belongs ‘in the kitchen.’

Lydia, 18, admits to having her work scrutinized more often than she’d like, but wonders if her age may invite more criticism than her gender. “I’m inexperienced, fresh out of high school,” she says. “I really don’t like to think it’s because I’m a girl.”

None of these issues is clear-cut, and women debate amongst themselves as well. How much of it is only generational? When exactly does joking around cross the line? Would a gay man have the same problems?

A new road

The women do agree that the work environment in trades can be tough for anyone. “You have to have a pretty thick skin, whether you’re a woman or a man. It’s how the trades are,” says Aleah.

It’s how they are now, anyway, and these women are prepared for it, but they also see change on the horizon. With a younger generation gradually taking over, they’re already noticing more acceptance and respect in the shop, and it’s at VCC where they see it most of all.

“I was extremely nervous to come here after what I’d been through,” says Meghan, “but they’re so good.”

At VCC, these five women say they’re treated like any other student, even regarded for their previous industry experience. They’ve had instructors support them in the classroom, intercede for them in the workplace, and they've made lifelong friends.

Above all, they love what they do. Refinishing and painting are highly suited to individuals who are aesthetically minded, creative, and detail-oriented. Many of these women's hobbies include makeup, drawing, or painting—all of which translated extremely well into the trade.

For all their experiences, these women would also still recommend an automotive refinishing career to any girl who was interested. Their advice is to start early, take advantage of high school programs where possible, talk to other women in trades, and stand up for yourself in general.

“If you’re unhappy and you don’t wake up every day excited to go to work, don’t go!” says Aleah.

“Yeah make a change,” says Meghan. “Your toolbox has wheels on it for a reason.”

VCC wins big at Skills Canada BC 2018 provincials

We are proud to announce that students from Vancouver Community College (VCC) and associated high schools earned 18 medals in the Skills Canada BC 2018 provincial competition held in Abbotsford on Wednesday, April 18.

VCC’s medallists emerged as top-skilled competitors in the areas of baking, culinary arts, hairdressing, esthetics, automotive service, automotive collision repair, and car painting. Congratulations especially to our VCC competitors who swept the podiums in baking (post-secondary) and car painting (secondary).

According to VCC Baking instructor Kimberly Tada, the secret to success is being fully prepared. "Our students were successful because of the level of commitment and dedication they demonstrated while practicing for this event. The support of the college, instructors, and instructional assistants to make the weekly practices possible was also a key ingredient." 

A total of 35 students represented VCC and its Youth Train in Trades programs at this provincial competition where more than 600 competitors demonstrated skilled trades for industry judges and a live audience. 

See the photo album and share in the celebration using the hashtags #myVCC and #SkillsBC.

Baking – post-secondary 
Clarissa Roque (@roqueclarissa) – GOLD
Kayla Wenzek (@kayla_vancity) – SILVER
Angela Wu (@tinypatissiere) – BRONZE

Baking – secondary 
Queenie Li – GOLD

Culinary arts – post-secondary
Leah Patitucci (@leah_patitucci) – GOLD

Culinary arts – secondary
Carmen-Rosa Bilodeau – GOLD

Hairdressing – post-secondary
Tanya Gatus – BRONZE

Hairdressing – secondary
Hanna Croswell – SILVER
Kayla Raymond – BRONZE

Esthetics – post-secondary
Alesha Johal – GOLD
Audrey Telek – SILVER

Automotive service – secondary
Mary Joy Siscar – SILVER

Automotive collision repair – post-secondary
Jason Sherle – GOLD

Automotive collision repair – secondary
Patrick Bucu – GOLD
Hajrudin Dzebic – SILVER

Car painting – secondary
Anthony Harrington – GOLD
Aaron Tagaca – SILVER
Rabin Rosario – BRONZE

VCC's Culinary Arts Wins again at Health Chef Competition

‌International students in Culinary Arts Diploma participated in the 2015 Healthy Chef competition in March 2015. VCC Team won the Healthy Plate Category and People’s Choice Award. For detail about this success story, visit the website of British Columbia Chef's Association.

Student T2202A tax forms available online

Student tax forms (T2202A forms) are now available online. To access your tax receipt, go to myVCC login. 

Enter your Student ID.  Enter your password.  Then click on Login.  For first time users your initial password has been set to your birth date in the format MMDDYY.  For example, if your birth date is January 25, 1975, your password would be 012575.  If you have previously logged into the system you will have set up your own password.  If you have  forgotten your password click on "Reset password"

If you need help accessing your tax receipt, please follow the steps described in the T2202A Frequently Asked Questions document. If you have any questions about your tax form please email T2202aHelp@vcc.ca with your question and student ID or call 604.871.7000, ext. 7002.

New international students received a warm welcome!

‌VCC welcomes new international students to join the Fall 2015 term.

‌New international students participated in orientation on either September 2 or 3, depending on their programs. Students received information about people and resources available to them at VCC and in Vancouver. Topics included: cultural adjustment, important immigration documents, VCC services and support, staying safe and healthy, and Campus tours were led by returning VCC international student volunteers.

Check out our September 2015 Orientation pictures!

2017

Celebrating student success

Twice a year, Vancouver Community College (VCC) holds student awards ceremonies recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of talented and deserving students enrolled in the vast range of programs offered at VCC.

On Friday, June 9, the spring awards ceremony took place at VCC’s Broadway campus where the VCC Foundation awarded in excess of $138,000 in scholarships and awards. VCC’s scholarships and awards are established to recognize academic excellence and to acknowledge students who demonstrate leadership in the classroom or in their community. These awards help encourage and support students in their journey to academic and career success.

Among the award receipients, 18 of them are international students enrolled in the following programs:

• Asian Culinary Certificate
• Automotive Collision & Refinishing Diploma
• Automotive Service Technology Diploma
• Baking & Pastry Certificates
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing Studies
• Dental Assisting Certificate
• Dental Hygiene Diploma
• Hair Design Certificate
• Hospitality Management Diploma
• Jewellery Art & Design Diploma

With many donor representatives in attendance, the awards ceremonies provide a special opportunity for donors to directly connect with the recipients of their awards and the chance for students—and VCC—to thank their donors in person.

Visit the VCC Flickr site to view photos from the spring student awards ceremony.

A Fresh Start

"At VCC, I learned to speak English and how to become a professional baker. Now, I own my own bakery. VCC helped me achieve my dreams." Ray Wei, graduate, ESL baking and pastry arts.

Vancouver Community College graduate Ray Wei might not get a lot of shut eye these days but his dreams are certainly coming true.

Upon arriving in Canada from China -- where he worked as a sales executive with Nestlé -- Wei embarked on a new journey to learn to English as a second language and a new skill: professional baking.  After graduating from VCC's full-time ESL baking and pastry arts program, he found work in local hotels and restaurants and about a year later, purchased his own bakery.

On his experience at VCC; learning English and how to become a professional baker:

“The relevance and usability of the program is very strong. It's job-oriented but also takes into account development of your personal interests. VCC helped with my communication skills and opened doors for me.”

“My dream of beginning a new life as an immigrant has turned into a very hard job, but I love it. I wake up at 4 a.m. every day and work over 10 hours a day. Sometimes I feel physically and mentally exhausted and want to give up. But then I think about my VCC teachers and the support they gave me. It keeps me going as well as my love for the industry and my two employees, who are also VCC baking graduates.”

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Baking & Pastry Arts - Artisan Baking and Pastry for International Students

VCC fashion program redesigned for industry success

‌‌VCC's fashion program is undergoing a transformation. In an effort to meet the needs of the fashion industry and to ensure VCC students continue to be the most sought after graduates – we have made significant changes to reflect the industry’s goal of ‘selling apparel’.

The past model of learning the skills, producing a collection, and showcasing it on the runway has been altered to become more in alignment with what many of the major apparel brands in Vancouver want. Lululemon, MEC, Aritzia, Plum, and Arcteryx, for instance, don’t exhibit fashion shows.

VCC’s newly named Fashion Design & Production Diploma is a two-year diploma program that puts fundamental skills into immediate context through a series of fashion cycles that allow students to experience a fast-paced production process including: design, drafting, construction, marketing and sales. The cycles grow in complexity while offering students a range of sales experience including, ecommerce, consignment, and custom design.

Second-year students further their skills while completing a self-directed garment project. This is what VCC’s fashion programs have been known for and where student’s creativity shines through in their collections, ranging from bridal to children’s wear, swimsuits to ready to wear, and everything in between.

Rather than the traditional fashion show, the goal is now to provide the tools to pursue entrepreneurship through business planning, web design, ecommerce, and marketing courses. Or, for students choosing a career in the apparel sector there are courses in overseas production, Gerber CAD, Illustrator, and grading. An integrated practicum gives graduates real-life experience and a solid foundation for their professional network.

Outstanding value at The Chef’s Table pop-up restaurant

As published in Vancouver Is Awesome: 

Vancouver Community College is once again holding their popular pop-up restaurant, “The Chef’s Table” led by Executive Chef Hamid Salimian and the International Culinary Arts students. Located at the downtown campus at 250 West Pender Street (at Cambie Street), the Chef’s Table, features a five course prix fixe dinner for $30.00 or $45.00 with local BC wine pairings. By reservation only, the pop-up restaurant is open Tuesdays to Fridays and runs until June 30th, 2016.

One of VCC’s most famous culinary alumni and now instructor, Hamid Salimian has racked up some serious awards and accolades including the Georgia Straight’s “Best Chef in the City” in 2012 when he was the Executive Chef at Diva at the Met. He has represented Canada on the international stage at the world’s most prestigious culinary competitions including the the World Culinary Cup and World Culinary Olympics and taken home gold. The VCC pop-up restaurant allows guests to see chef Hamid and the international culinary students in action as they prepare each course at the plating station located at the front of the restaurant.

Hurry - these popular dinners quickly sell-out as nightly seating is limited to a maximum of 22 guests. The menu changes every two weeks and many loyal patrons return to experience new dishes and wine pairings. Vegetarians take note the last two weeks of the pop-up restaurant showcases five vegan dishes.

The current menu features Tuna Cannelloni with Side Stripe Prawns, Grilled Octopus, Foie Gras & Duck Confit, Roasted Beef Striploin and concludes with heavenly White Chocolate and Strawberries. Excellent local wine pairings for this menu feature Fern Walk Sauvignon Blanc, Ganton & Larsen Chardonnay, Sumac Ridge Reserve Pinot Noir, Red Rooster Hen House Ruffled and Grey Monk Odyssey Brut Rose.
Simply a must eat!

The Chef’s Table at Vancouver Community College

Downtown Campus - 250 West Pender Street
Four Corners Restaurant - 3rd Floor
6:30 p.m. seating
5 courses $30.00 plus taxes and gratuities.
5 courses with BC Wine pairings. $45.00 plus taxes and gratuities.

Reserve by EMAIL: thechefstable@vcc.ca

The Chef’s Table pop-up kitchen comes to VCC Broadway

‌VCC’s International Culinary Arts students are recreating the Chef’s Table at VCC’s Broadway campus!‌

This pop-up style restaurant is located at VCC’s Broadway campus in the Quizine Kitchen. Patrons will be seated at a communal dining table while VCC’s International Culinary Arts students create a five-course set menu before their eyes.

Make your reservations today!

RESERVATIONS BY EMAIL ONLY: thechefstable@vcc.ca

Details
Dates: October 20 – December 18, 2015
Time: Tuesday to Friday, 6:30 p.m. seating
Cost: $30 set menu, $45 with wine pairings
Location: Quizine Kitchen entrance on Glen Dr. at E. 8th Ave.

#VCCchefstable

Menu

Celeriac soup, 63Cegg, pork belly

Sturgeon, chorizo, fennel, saffron

Chicken liver Foie gras parfait, pickled winter vegetables,  brioche

Beef striploin, potato pave, red wine cabbage, natural jus

Chocolates rocks, chocolate sorbet, vanilla pudding 

Volunteer Opportunity for VCC International Students

Join VCC International Education as a volunteer to welcome new students!

What it’s about

On Wednesday, September 2 and Thursday, September 3 VCC International will be hosting orientations for new international students in our career programs. Each orientation will be run from (9:00am-12:30pm) and will take place at the Downtown Campus.

VCC International staff will be leading the orientations, but having returning international student involvement makes all the difference. After all, who better to learn from about the VCC student experience than from current international students!

What we are looking for

All volunteers are enthusiastic, outgoing international students who are currently in a VCC career programs.

What volunteers will do

Volunteers will assist with the check in and greeting process, lead campus tours and be available to answer questions about their program and experiences at VCC.

All volunteers must commit to a 1.5 hour training session and be available for at least one of the orientations (i.e. from 8:30am to approximately 12:45pm on either Wednesday, September 2 and/or Thursday, September 3).

What the benefits are

Volunteering has many benefits. Volunteers:

• feel great about helping others,
• enjoy meeting new people,
• develop new skills through training,
• learn even more about VCC,
• receive a reference letter from VCC International Education (for volunteers who contribute a minimum of 9 hours of their time - i.e. are involved in the two orientations and training)

Are you ready?

We ask that all interested students complete an application so that we can meet and discuss your areas of interest and availability.

Fill in the ‘VCC International Education: International Student Orientation Volunteer Application’ form  and email it to ieservices@vcc.ca or drop it off to the VCC International Education Office (Room 100, Downtown Campus, Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:00pm).

Automotive Sector: Many Job Opportunities

There are many job opoprtunities in the automotive sector in B.C.!

More automotive technicians are needed in the automotive sector in B.C. Jason Devisser, VCC’s Department Head of Automotive Service Technology Diploma, stated in an interview with Vancouver Sun that "Employment prospects right now are unbelievable. I have companies calling me all the time looking either for apprentices or different levels of technicians."

Two 2-year auto trades diplomas available for international students at VCC:

Automotive Service Technology Diploma: offered in January and September

Automotive Collision & Refinishing Diploma‌: offered in January

The auto trades diplomas are filling up quickly!

Contact VCC International Education Office to get more information, and apply while program seats last!

Q&A with John Martinolich: Making it in auto collision repair

John Martinolich started out fixing cars as a teenage hobby, but it wasn’t long before he made this high-demand trade his profession. Now an instructor at VCC, John was kind enough to answer a few questions about his career:

Why did you choose to study at VCC?

I did a work experience at VCC when I was in high school and enjoyed it. I took the course so I could repair cars as a hobby, but I ended up enjoying it so much, I left my other job and stayed with it. That was 17 years ago.

What do you love about working in the auto collision repair and auto refinishing industry?

I really enjoy working with emerging technologies. Although it’s a really physical job, it requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail and problem solving skills. I also really enjoy payday—I’ve averaged $98,000/year over the last five years!

Would you recommend the program to others looking for a new career?

Absolutely. I was hired before my course was even completed. Today, the industry is in need of skilled technicians. It’s a well-paying, high-demand trade.

Why did you decide to teach?

I liked helping people at work and training apprentices.

___________________

Do you have a passion for technology and the drive to succeed in a rewarding career? Learn more about the industry-respected Automotive Collision & Refinishing Diploma program at VCC.  Contact our office to get more information about how to apply to the program and jumpstart your career.

Five reasons to choose hospitality management at VCC

As a leader in hospitality management training in B.C., VCC strives to meet employer demands and respond to industry trends. We are proud to deliver a new and revitalized curriculum – built on our reputable programs and driven by industry experts.

Here are the top five reasons our graduates recommend our diploma and degree programs:‌

Grads get jobs
“Getting a job in the industry after graduation was never a concern when being affiliated with VCC.”
– Amanda

Strong reputation
“I chose VCC because it’s in the heart of hospitality in Vancouver and has a fantastic reputation. The course load is relevant and the instructors are industry professionals.”
– Caitlin

Industry connections
“VCC’s program was a conversation point as employers knew many of the instructors from within the industry.”
– Bernie

Industry-relevant curriculum
“The program continues to be relevant and practical. VCC instructors are industry experts who provide knowledge and insight to future employees.”
– Kristina

Value
“VCC was an excellent investment in my future – from valuable life lessons and a well-rounded education, to networking and job preparation.”
– Brock

Apply now while seats last!

Top five reasons to get an Administrative Assistant certificate

Administrative assistants do a lot. With tasks ranging from communications to data management to financial recordkeeping, this position is the heartbeat of every office in virtually every industry—it’s no wonder they’re in demand. Here are the top five reasons to earn your  at VCC:

1. WorkBC forecasts over 21,000 administrative assistant jobs to open in the next seven years.
   
   
2. You can choose your industry. From big business to charities to government offices—administrative assistants are always part of the team.
   
   
3. Every VCC student completes a two-week practicum experience with a local business.
   
   
4. VCC grads get jobs—85 per cent of our students are hired within a few months of program completion.
   
   
5. International students are eligible to work part-time during the program, and qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit after graduation.

Loving my job

I'm Caleb Lee and this is my success story.

A few years after graduating from UBC, I decided to go back to school to learn how to teach English to speakers of other languages. And since graduating from VCC’s TESOL certificate program, it has been a rollercoaster ride from one event to the next. I started pounding the pavement as soon as I finished college and got hired on the spot at a local international school. I also got a few substitute teaching jobs at a number of different schools and learned more about teaching some of the finer points of English.

I also started picking up volunteer experience, helping out at conversation clubs for immigrant students and soon started volunteering at the Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC), where I helped out as a teaching assistant. Through my contacts there, I was able to get hired as a substitute instructor before applying for a regular position. Now, I teach a full-time ELSA for the Workplace course in the evenings.

Finding a job and place that you’re happy with isn’t easy in any profession, but with the right contacts and a love of the job, the world could be your oyster! Everything came together for me because I was available, the job suited me perfectly, and I was introduced to the right people.

Click the links below for more information about the TESOL programs available for international students:

VCC announces national scholarship winner

VCC is pleased to announce that second year Jewellery Art & Design Diploma student, Fiona Maclean, has been awarded the 2014 Vaccaro Family Scholarship. The $3,000 scholarship is the premier scholarship prize for jewellery design students across Canada; one that many students use to kick-start their career. 

(Left to right): CJEXPOS owner Phil Payne, Fiona Maclean, and Giovanni Vaccaro, owner of Beverly Hills Jewellers at the gala ball on Nov. 22; the award winning sterling silver and 18-karat rose gold bridal hairpiece. (Photos courtesy of Beverly Hills Jewellers)

The stunning bridal headpiece that was designed as homage to 1920’s lace patterns was submitted to the competition when Maclean was still a first-year student at VCC.  Maclean found out that not only had she won the prestigious scholarship, but would also be sent to Toronto, expenses paid, to attend the gala dinner. An event that Maclean says was quite overwhelming.

“The guest list was a who’s who of the jewellery industry and media. I was introduced to jewelers, manufacturers and faculty from other schools. Everyone was encouraging and gracious.”

Maclean will use the scholarship money to pay for the gemmology certification program at VCC, which she attends in the evenings while in her second year of the jewellery art & design diploma program. Maclean says she chose to study her passion at VCC because of the program’s strong reputation in the industry. The quality of instruction she has received was an added bonus.

When asked if she had any words of advice for those wanting to explore education in jewellery art & design, Maclean says, “work hard, get obsessed and use your imagination”. This certainly worked for her.

Open House for International Students

Open House for VCC's International Students

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International students celebrated with the International Education Team at the Open House on September 18. 

Congratulations to our door prize winners:  Ajay, Dana, Edison, Hyeon Seok, Kayla, Kayo, Maninder, Mingjun, Satpal, Sharon, and Yi!

New international students received a warm welcome!

‌VCC welcomes new international students to join the Fall 2014 term.

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New international students participated in orientation on either August 28 or 29, depending on their programs. Students received information about people and resources available to them at VCC and in Vancouver. Topics included: cultural adjustment, important immigration documents, VCC services and support, staying safe and healthy, and Campus tours were led by returning VCC international student volunteers.

Check out our Fall 2014 Orientation Photos!

Office closed for one day, on September 9, 2014

‌‌

VCC International Education Office will be moving back to Room 100 on September 9, 2014.

During this move, our staff will be checking email and phone messages, but please expect some delay in our responses. For urgent inquiries, please call 604-871-7000 and ask to speak to the International Education Office.

Top five reasons to enroll in Culinary Arts ESL at VCC

Top chefs get their start at VCC. Train with the best instructors while advancing your English language skills. Here are the top five reasons to come to VCC:

1. Learn English while you train to become a professional cook
   
   
2. Produce real products to be sold in the VCC cafeteria and Seiffert Market. Receive hands-on training and learn to work with professional kitchen equipment.
   
   
3. Gain industry experience on culinary practicum at top restaurants and hotels. Instructors work with industry partners to ensure student success.
   
   
4. VCC graduates are in demand and are hired by all the leaders in the hospitality field -- 85% of our students are hired during or a few months after program completion.
   
   
5. International students may be eligible to apply for Post Graduation Work Permit for up to 10 months after successfully completing this program

Contact us to get more information at study@vcc.ca

Fashion designer wins Outstanding Alumni Award 2013

VCC fashion graduate, Anna Kosturova, wins VCC's Outstanding Alumni Award 2013 in the category of Career Excellence & Leadership. Innovator and entrepeneur, Anna runs a highly-successful swimwear line featured in movies and on Sports Illustrated covers. It is her spirit and the willingness to never give up that has put her at the top of her field and why VCC honours her.

VCC Alumna wins Grammy!

VCC alumna Jennifer Gasoi has won a Grammy Award in the category of best children's album for her sophomore release, Throw a Penny in the Wishing Well. After studying voice at VCC in 1997, Jennifer went on to perform at the 1999, 2000, and 2001 Vancouver Jazz Festivals before moving to Montreal in 2002. Ever since, her charming heart-felt style has been winning over audiences of both kids and adults alike. Congratulations Jennifer!

Watch a video of Jennifer performing the title track.

VCC students earn 20 medals in skilled trades competition

Paint us proud!

Vancouver Community College students earned 20 medals at the annual B.C. Skills Competition in Abbotsford on April 17: eight gold, seven silver and five bronze.

All the gold medallists will represent B.C. at the Skills Canada national competition at BC Place in June. They will compete against college and high school students from across the country.

VCC's 2013 B.C. Skills winners:

Architectural CAD (drafting)
Gold: Meghan McDonell, VCC via Vancouver

Automotive collision repair
Silver: Steven Dardengo, VCC via Victoria
Bronze: Philip Laffin, VCC via Nanaimo

High school automotive collision repair
Gold: Kurtis Gordey, A L Fortune Secondary, Enderby
Silver: Cesar Busine, Sir Charles Tupper Secondary, Vancouver
Bronze: Kyle Steven, Mark R. Isfeld Senior Secondary, Courtenay

Automotive service technician
Gold: Keith Stonehouse, VCC via Chilliwack

High school auto refinishing
Gold: Adam Sliacky, South Delta Secondary
Silver: Brenden Papps, Moscrop Secondary, Burnaby
Bronze: Donald Urquhart, Panorama Ridge Secondary, Surrey

Culinary arts
Bronze: Lyndsay Jones, VCC

Baking
Gold: Georgine Chung, VCC
Silver: Kate Lo, VCC

High school baking
Silver: Crystal Tan, Lord Byng Secondary, Vancouver

Hair design
Gold: Michelle Macasling, VCC
Silver: Katy Au, VCC via Richmond

High school hair design
Gold: Rachelle Garcia, Samuel Robertson Secondary, Maple Ridge

Esthetics
Gold: Ashlie Mackie, VCC via Vancouver
Silver: Eun ju Oh, VCC via Coquitlam
Bronze: Linda Dooley, VCC via Delta

VCC partners with several high schools in Metro Vancouver to offer trades training at the post-secondary level. By the time a student graduates from high school, they are skilled and ready to enter the workforce or able to continue their studies in college.