CNA Supports Growth in Fur Industry
11/30/2006 4:32:28 PM
After extensive consultation with industry, College of the North Atlantic has developed a comprehensive one-year fur production training program to prepare students for employment opportunities, as well as prepare them in the development and operation of new farm enterprises.
The program has been recognized for its uniqueness and supported by Canada Mink Breeders Association.
New fur markets in the Far East, Russia, and China and the rejuvenation of the fur industry in Western Europe and North America is driving the growth and development of fur production world wide.
Closer to home, rural Newfoundland has seen the growth and expansion of the fur industry by both Danish and local enterprise alike in communities like Cavendish and Cox’s Cove.
“The province is positioned to become the leading province in farmed fur production, targeting substantial growth in the fur industry and increasing employment opportunities,” stated Chan Wiseman, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture indicated, referring to the growth in the industry.
With the rapid expansion of the fur industry, comes the need for skilled farm production workers.
“One of the supports for industry will be to address and meet its training objectives, leading to the long term sustainability of the fur industry in rural Newfoundland,” explained Blake Cryderman, Chair of Contract Training and Continuing Education
The Fur Production Training Program is a combination of in-class and on-farm training.
College of the North Atlantic will partner with fur farms at designated locations throughout the province to ensure the effective delivery of this practical approach to skills development.
“Essentially the farm becomes an extension of the classroom as students follow the lifecycle of the mink and fox and explore the diversity of a fur farm,” stated Cryderman.
Further details will be released in the coming weeks through information sessions for the program at various locations throughout the province; however, CNA is actively recruiting students in preparation for a winter 2007 start date and interested students are encouraged to apply early.
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For more information contact:
Roger Hulan
Manager of Marketing and Communications
College of the North Atlantic
709.643.7721
Or
Michelle Yetman
Business Development Officer
College of the North Atlantic
709.596.6139