College of New Caledonia Dental Assisting Students Receive Tuition Support Through Workforce Grant
The College of New Caledonia (CNC) is pleased to announce that eight students enrolled in the Dental Assistant Certificate Program will have their full tuition and supplies covered for the 10-month program, thanks to funding through the Community Workforce Response Grant (CWRG).
The grant—provided by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia—was secured by the BC Dental Association, which selected CNC as a partner institution. Several colleges across the province were eligible to receive the funding, making this an especially meaningful opportunity for CNC students.
“We’re incredibly proud to be chosen for this partnership,” said Cindy Heitman, President of CNC. “This funding removes significant financial barriers and allows students to focus on their training, their goals, and their futures. We’re grateful to the BC Dental Association and the provincial and federal governments for supporting our learners in such a profound way.”
The Community Workforce Response Grant provides flexible, rapid-response funding to address urgent labour market needs in B.C. communities. By supporting cohort-based skills training for unemployed and underemployed individuals, CWRG helps participants gain the skills and certifications they need to enter high-demand fields—strengthening local economies and meeting workforce needs.
“BCDA is pleased to partner with the College of New Caledonia as part of our ongoing commitment to address dental staff shortages and create opportunities for those who need them most,” said Dr. Jillian Belbin, President, BD Dental Association. “This initiative focuses on supporting vulnerable and underrepresented students, particularly in rural and remote communities to pursue dental education and join a healthcare workforce in critical demand.