A Lethbridge truck business has given a $100,000 to Lethbridge College to create a student award for parts technician training.
Southland International Trucks intends the award to be given annually to a parts technician student. The money will also be used to establish a Southland International Trucks heavy equipment bay at the college’s trades building.
Owner George Kirkham said in a news release that 20 percent of his staff employees take apprenticeship training and other programs at the college, so it is a logical place for financial support.
Kirkham is well known in the region for his collection of antique International trucks, which is the largest in Western Canada.
“Supporting the education of the people who work for me and utilize my business is incredibly important to me as it works towards meeting the demand of skilled tradespeople within our community and province,” Kirkham said.
College president Paula Burns said the donation will provide important opportunities for students to receive hands-on training in their chosen field.
Southland, established in 1985, is the longest running truck and trailer dealership in Lethbridge.
