[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/GeorgeMcGuintyMoynes.jpg” caption=”McMaster University President Peter George, Premier Dalton McGuinty and Mohawk College President MaryLynn West-Moynes. Below, Ted McMeekin, MPP for Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale (left), shakes hands with the premier while John Milloy, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities and President George look on. Photos by Susan Bubak.”]McMaster University and Mohawk College have received $16.5 million from the Ontario government for a joint technology program that will help meet Canada's high demand for skilled workers.

The Bachelor of Technology, or BTech program, is a unique multidisciplinary technology program offering three streams of education.

A university degree-completion program is offered to credentialed technologists and internationally-trained professionals looking to upgrade their training. A four-year degree/diploma program is available to graduating high school students. And certificate/diploma programs have been developed for those looking to take individual courses.

The program will also help internationally trained professionals find jobs in Ontario. Graduates of the program will receive both a McMaster University degree and a Mohawk College diploma.

“These students are going to help Ontario stay ahead of the competition,” said Premier Dalton McGuinty during the funding announcement made today at Mohawk College. “We're investing in their skills and knowledge so we can continue to attract jobs and investment for our economy.”

Ontario is Canada's technology hub, with more than 5,000 high-tech companies and manufacturers. The Conference Board of Canada estimates Canada's tech sector may need up to 58,000 new workers this year.

“This government recognizes that new partnerships in education and training are the way to ensure students are prepared for the very best opportunities,” said Peter George, president of McMaster University. “We have a long history of effective collaboration with Mohawk and other colleges, and the BTech program will be another stellar example.”

“This investment will create exciting new career paths for students and will provide the country's industry with a highly skilled workforce in possession of a unique set of skills,” said Peter Smith, acting dean of McMaster's Faculty of Engineering. “I am delighted that the Ontario Government has decided to support this joint initiative between Mohawk College and McMaster University.”

The program will start taking students this fall.