BVIEC and HLSCC begin technical training to students under MOU

The first cohort of H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) students under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) is expected to begin hands-on training at the power company’s Long Bush facility next fall.

The students will receive practical, real-world learning experience using the power company’s Diesel Engine 11.

The engine was the last engine installed at the Long Bush Power Station and operated reliably before being decommissioned roughly a decade ago, when BVIEC’s full generation capacity was relocated to Pockwood Pond.

BVIEC’s Acting People, Culture and Talent Services Manager, Sharie-Ann Stapleton, said the initiative is designed to create a space where technical students can engage directly with equipment in a meaningful, hands-on way.

“The vision is to be able to have the students come, enjoy themselves, open up, take apart, put back together, understand this aspect outside of the textbooks, but more in a physical manner. The hands-on, which would be very exciting for them,” she explained.

Head of the Department of Technical and Vocational Education at HLSCC, Cecelia Rowe, recently visited BVIEC’s Long Bush facility and expressed enthusiasm about the initiative.

“I can see my marine and automotive students enjoying themselves in this room because, as you would know, the industrial experience filling that gap between practice and theory is what we are trying to do at the college,” Rowe stated. “I believe that actually seeing something in the industry and applying the skills and knowledge that they have, then this would benefit them greatly,” Rowe further expressed.

Students participating in the initiative will do so as part of their capstone course over two semesters.

The MOU, originally signed in August 2024, was established to foster cooperation and collaboration between the two institutions in support of training in electronic and electrical technology, as well as work placements, internships, and the short-term use of BVIEC facilities by HLSCC faculty and students.

Through the agreement, BVIEC and HLSCC will work together to provide students with meaningful opportunities as they prepare for job placement. HLSCC will also collaborate with BVIEC in providing staff, resources, and programme promotion.