The Grand Erie District School Board and Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning have entered into a groundbreaking partnership that will set a new standard for education in Ontario. Starting in September 2025, the two institutions will launch the province’s first College-Within-a-School (CWAS) program, an initiative designed to blend secondary and post-secondary education under one roof.
The program will be housed at the Tollgate Technical Skills Centre (TTSC) in Brantford, where a $5-million investment from Conestoga College will fund extensive renovations. These upgrades include a dedicated wing for college-level programming, expanded parking, and new storage facilities. The enhancements are intended to create a seamless transition from high school to college for local students, many of whom are pursuing careers in the skilled trades.
John Tibbits, President of Conestoga College, called the partnership a significant step forward for the community. “This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to addressing the evolving needs of students and the Brantford area. Our investment in TTSC will allow us to expand our programming and create opportunities for students to gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed,” Tibbits said.
As part of the agreement, several programs currently delivered by Conestoga at the Brantford Airport will be relocated to TTSC, making it easier for students to access state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology. In addition to housing well-established certificate and diploma programs, the increased space will enable the introduction of new offerings in sectors such as skilled trades, healthcare, and academic upgrading.
Initial program offerings will include Electrical Techniques, Motive Power Fundamentals – Automotive Repair, Motive Power Technician – Automotive Service, and Heavy Construction Equipment Operator training. These one- and two-year programs aim to address local workforce demands while helping to revitalize the skilled trades pipeline, a key concern for employers in Brantford and the surrounding area.
For Grand Erie District School Board, the partnership represents an opportunity to expand educational pathways for students at a time when skilled trades are increasingly viewed as essential to Ontario’s economy. “This collaboration is an example of how we are working to align our vision of learning, leadership, and inspiration with real-world opportunities for students,” said Susan Gibson, Chair of the Board. “We are proud to offer programs that allow students to explore technological skills and transition seamlessly into meaningful careers.”
The new initiative builds on the success of existing School-Within-a-College programs and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, both of which have seen increased participation in recent years. By bringing college programming directly into a high school setting, the CWAS program aims to eliminate barriers to post-secondary education, especially for students who may not have considered attending college before.
JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education for Grand Erie, emphasized the importance of accessibility. “This partnership allows our students to experience college-level learning without leaving their high school environment, giving them a head start on their future,” Roberto said. “It’s about maximizing opportunities and helping students reach their full potential.”
The program is expected to attract a diverse group of students, from those pursuing skilled trades to those interested in upgrading their academic credentials. The partnership also positions Brantford as a leader in education and workforce development, helping to address the region’s labour shortages and contributing to its economic growth.
The collaborative effort between Grand Erie and Conestoga reflects a broader trend in education: institutions working together to meet the needs of their communities. By creating a space where secondary and post-secondary education intersect, the CWAS program is not only reshaping how students learn but also redefining what it means to prepare for the future.
In the words of Conestoga President John Tibbits, “This is about giving students the tools they need to shape their future while addressing the needs of local employers. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”
