Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is proud to announce funding through the CEWIL Canada iHUB grant for eligible students in the Veterinary Medical Receptionist and Equine Massage programs currently completing their 2025 summer practicums, as well as Veterinary Technology Diploma students in either their summer or upcoming fall 2025 practicums.
Through CEWIL Canada’s most recent investment of approximately $270,000, three new projects are now underway to support students in these programs during their summer and fall 2025 practicums. This new funding is in addition to a previous CEWIL Canada-supported project from Fall 2024 that awarded approximately $60,000 to Veterinary Technology Diploma students. In total, CEWIL Canada has contributed $320,000 to Olds College students in 2024 and 2025.
Dr. Debbie Thompson, President & CEO of Olds College, shared, “The continued support from CEWIL Canada plays an essential role in reducing barriers for our students. It allows them to participate in meaningful work-integrated learning (WIL) experiences where they can apply the knowledge, skills and competencies developed on campus while building valuable connections with industry partners.”
Thanks to this funding, 136 scholarships will be awarded in addition to the previous 27 students supported this past fall, helping students reduce the financial pressures often associated with unpaid practicums. The grant allows students to focus more fully on their learning experiences and pursue placements in communities where their skills are most needed.
“CEWIL Canada is pleased to support innovative WIL experiences for students at Olds College, where students have been able to receive financial support and recognition for their WIL experience,” says Charlene Marion, Executive Director at CEWIL Canada. “Funds such as these aim to eliminate barriers to WIL and increase access for all post-secondary students.’’
"Through Canada’s Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiative, Olds College is awarding 136 additional scholarships to secure students' participation in the Veterinary Medical Receptionist, Equine Massage and Veterinary Technology WIL experiences. By easing financial barriers, these scholarships allow students to fully engage in hands-on learning and own their destiny in their future professions. Investments in our youth strengthen Canada's future talent — helping to build the most skilled, resilient workforce in the G7 and driving economic growth.”
- Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Each eligible student may receive up to $1,800 to help cover practicum-related expenses such as fuel, food and lodging. The funding was made available to all domestic students who completed practicums in the Veterinary Medical Receptionist, Equine Massage and Veterinary Technology Diploma programs this summer, and students in the Veterinary Technology Diploma completing their Practicums in the fall may also be eligible.
This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiative and in part by CEWIL Canada's iHUB.The successful grant application is administered by our Career Services and Work-Integrated Learning Office.
By continuing to invest in these kinds of practical learning opportunities, Olds College remains committed to helping students thrive and succeed — both in the classroom and in the field.
