Several politicians got to taste some of the finest cuisine Okanagan College’s culinary arts program has to offer Friday morning.

B.C.’s Advanced Education minister Andrew Wilkinson stopped by the college’s Kelowna campus to drop off a cheque, announcing the province’s plan to increase funding at the school by $281,000.

The increased funding will provide 148 new spots for trades programs, including 80 new carpentry spots, 36 culinary arts spots, and 16 additional spots for both the plumbing and welding programs.

Wilkinson said Okanagan College is a shining example of an institution that has full enrolment and a record of high employment for its graduates.

“It’s time to recognize that and give Okangan College the dividends it deserves,” he said. “This college has been so successful in feeding people into the workforce that we want to reward that and enlarge Okanagan College’s profile."

The college has received $1.7 million in funding for new seats from the government over the last two years, creating 500 new spots for students.

Bernard Casavant, culinary manager at Okanagan College, said the region is in a critical stage for needing new skilled cooks and the college has been filling that need.

“Without a good staff in the restaurant, a well-trained staff, your profitability is not here, and chances are you’re not in business,” Casavant said.

Photo: Nicholas Johansen