Assiniboine College Launches $24 Million Medical Lab Project

Assiniboine College has announced the development of a new medical laboratory facility, estimated to cost over $24 million. The project will transform a long-vacant mechanics shop at the college’s Victoria Avenue East campus into classrooms, laboratories, and an auditorium, supporting two new programs in medical technology set to begin in the fall of 2027.

The college is investing $10 million into the project, while the provincial government is contributing $9.13 million in capital funding. This includes approximately $4 million allocated for equipment and $5 million directed towards construction. Assiniboine College plans to secure the remaining $5 million through fundraising efforts.

New Programs to Address Healthcare Needs

The facility is designed to host two new programs: the medical laboratory technology program and the combined laboratory and X-ray technology program. These initiatives were initially announced in the provincial budget earlier this year. Treena Slate, CEO of Prairie Mountain Health, emphasized the importance of these programs during a press conference held at the site on Monday.

“We cannot operate an emergency department without nurses, trained lab and X-ray personnel, and physicians,” Slate remarked to an audience of over 50 attendees. She highlighted the necessity of specialized professions to deliver timely medical results and stressed that this new facility represents a significant investment in both education and community health.

Assiniboine College president Mark Frison noted that there are already 650 individuals on the interest list for the new programs, which he described as “unprecedented.” He believes these offerings will have a substantial impact on the local and regional healthcare landscape.

Government Support and Future Impact

The Advanced Education and Training Minister, Renéé Cable, reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to improving healthcare services. “We know that there’s a lot to do in health care, and it is a bit of a perfect storm,” she stated. Cable expressed optimism about the future graduates of these programs, emphasizing that their presence in the workforce will be crucial for enhancing healthcare delivery across Manitoba.

The two programs will each accommodate 20 students and will span two and a half years, integrating practical placements in rural communities. The ongoing operational cost for delivering these programs is expected to be around $2 million to $2.25 million annually.

Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett expressed his enthusiasm for the project’s potential, particularly for the rural regions that are in dire need of such educational opportunities. He praised the provincial government for its support, noting the positive impact this initiative will have on the community.

The mechanics shop, which has remained largely unused since 2010, previously served various functions, including a drive-through COVID-19 testing site during the pandemic. Frison referred to it as the “crown jewel” of the college, emphasizing the importance of repurposing the space to support educational advancements.

As construction begins, the community is poised to benefit significantly from the enhanced training facilities that will contribute to the long-term health and well-being of the region. This development not only reflects a financial investment but also highlights the commitment to nurturing skilled professionals essential for the healthcare system in Manitoba.