Sixteen newly qualified technicians have been awarded certificates in major appliance repair and service after completing an 18-month pilot programme at Bermuda College.

The presentation was made at the college this evening during a small ceremony for family and friends

The education course was piloted through the Division of Professional and Career Education and attracted scores of interested applicants when it was first unveiled.

“We needed appliances for our students to work on in the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning courses and went begging to Bermuda Gas & Utility to ask for old appliances,” HVAC instructor Cannoth Roberts said.

“They were importing appliance technicians from Zimbabwe, because there was such a need at the time, so we decided to put our heads together to see if we could develop a partnership between the college and industry that would, at the same time, fill the obvious vacuum in this field.

Referring to the 16 that completed the programme Mr Roberts added: “The majority of those that stayed just wanted a second chance to reinvent themselves, or enhance their skill set.

“I’m pleased to say that one hundred per cent of our graduates are now employed in the field.”

Kim Wade, who spoke as the student representative for the group at this evening’s award ceremony, described the programme as a “godsend”.

“When I first heard about this programme, I wasn’t sure whether I should apply or not,” he said. “But the programme has been a godsend to me.

“The industry has become technical, and the programme has helped me expand my horizons. I can look someone in the face and tell them I can help them.

“In fact I’ve already fixed a couple of things for my friends. I’m nervous, but I’m ready.”