KELOWNA, British Columbia – Construction is set to begin on a new centre for food, wine and tourism at Okanagan College's Kelowna, British Columbia campus.
The $55.8 million project will include education space, a food lab, a beverage research and development facility and common areas. About $51.8 million in funding will come from the provincial government, with the remaining $4 million coming from Okanagan College.
“British Columbia expects 91,000 new jobs in tourism and hospitality-related industries over the next decade, and the majority of these jobs will require some form of post-secondary education or skills training. This centre will equip students with the knowledge and experience they need to fill these jobs and provide a much-needed skilled workforce for Okanagan tourism and hospitality employers,” Lisa Bair, British Columbia's Minister of Advanced Education and Future Skills, said in a statement.
According to the announcement, the centre will consolidate all food, wine and tourism programs on campus and will enable Okanagan College to increase enrolment in its culinary arts major by more than 125 students per year and in its hospitality and tourism major by more than 450 students per year.
“We are excited to break ground on Okanagan College's new Centre for Food, Wine and Tourism. This building will serve as a gateway to campus, welcoming students, local residents and visitors while showcasing the region as a destination for world-class culinary and more. It will be a place where the next generation of leaders in hospitality and sustainable food and beverage production will learn, gain critical work experience and make connections that will last a lifetime,” added Okanagan College President Neil Fassina.
The center is expected to open to students in 2026, according to the announcement.
