A new training facility in Arborg could bolster the local economy, and keep more people in the region. That's according to Arborg and District Chamber of Commerce President Owen Eyolfson, as the new facility begins enrolling students. The new centre, known as the Central Interlake Training Facility is set to up this summer in preparation for the anticipated construction of a new personal care home. Eyolfson says while two of their major programs will focus on health care, there are others who will be providing training at the centre.

"Starting in July we have a health care aid course, which is a five month course. In January, we're hoping to have an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) course starting. There are also other groups who've rented it out to to different training such as CPR or computer courses. There's a lot of training that can go on."

Eyolfson says one of the barriers for the region has been the distance to access education. He says there's a real sense of excitement in the community, as students will no longer have to leave home to further their education.

"People are excited. People didn't think they could really have the opportunities to take a course like this, because it would disrupt their lives by having to drive an hour and a half to the city or more. Even someone from Fisher Branch that wants to take the course, they can drive half an hour or 45 minutes, versus driving two hours or more to Winnipeg. People are definitely excited about it."

Eyolfson says students often move to Brandon or Winnipeg to take courses, which can result in them remaining in those communities. He hopes this new facility will encourage more people to stay and work in the area.

"If people can keep their life intact in the rural community, and they're able to upgrade their education and find jobs in those fields in town, it's more likely they'll be able to stay in the area."

The facility is modeled after modelled after Fieldstone Ventures in Ashern, and Eyolfson says they'll be working with the organization to help students get enrolled in the training centre.