WOODSTOCK – For more than four decades, New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) has been a driving force in New Brunswick’s economic and social prosperity. NBCC’s programs, services and initiatives support the aspirations of individual learners, further the opportunities of the labour market and, in collaboration with partners, enable solutions for the challenges of communities and industry.
One of those partners is Richwil Truck Centre Ltd., an international truck dealership and service centre with locations in Fredericton and Woodstock. For years, Richwil has partnered with the Woodstock Campus of NBCC in a mutually beneficial relationship.
“Having the Truck and Transport Service Technician program here in the Woodstock area is a big plus,” said Richard Wilson, President of Richwil Truck Centre Ltd. “Trucking is a big industry in this area; we’re sort of a trucking hub. With students coming into the community to study, it’s meant a bigger pool of potential employees to choose from.”
Since opening in 1985, Richwil has employed approximately 10 NBCC graduates at its two locations. Richwil has also been a popular workplace destination for workplace practicums and has assisted NBCC with the purchase of a used transport for training purposes. For Wilson, though, the most rewarding element of his ongoing partnership with NBCC is the awarding of an annual bursary.
“When I was first approached about donating bursary funds, I really saw the value in it,” he said. “The bursary fund is perpetual, and that was important to us. We see a return, and that benefits us.”
Wilson is a proud alumni of the Carleton County Vocational School, the predecessor of NBCC. He graduated from the accounting program in 1974.
“It was certainly a year well spent,” he said. “It’s done well for me.”
In celebration of the partnership between the College and the company, NBCC Woodstock has awarded its first Industry Partner Award to Richwil. The award recognizes the company’s consistent and dedicated support of NBCC learners and alumni.
“Getting this award makes us feel that our donations and time are appreciated, and that’s always nice,” said Wilson. “I think it’s important for all employers to support the College because of what it does for us. Having the College here is a big plus for the whole community.”
