Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is strengthening its commitment to Kamloops and the surrounding region through a renewed partnership approach focused on workforce development, applied research and long-term economic resilience.
Speaking to members of the Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce on May 7, TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Airini outlined a vision for closer collaboration between the university and the business community, positioning TRU as an “anchor institution” supporting innovation, talent development and regional growth.
“TRU exists because this community believed in the value of a university and worked together to make it happen,” said Airini. “Now, as Kamloops and the region navigate economic uncertainty and rapid change, our futures are closely connected. When TRU succeeds, the community succeeds.”
The presentation highlighted TRU’s role as B.C.’s first dual-sector research university, bringing together skilled trades, academic and professional education, and applied research to address challenges facing the Interior.
L-R: Alicia Glaicar, president of the Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce board of directors; TRU President Airini; and Acacia Pangilinan, Chamber executive director and TRU alum, at the May 7 event.
Airini emphasized TRU’s economic impact, noting the university contributes more than $885 million annually to the regional economy and supports approximately one in every 10 jobs locally.
“We are not only educating students, we are helping build the workforce and leadership capacity this region needs,” she said.
Addressing labour shortages was a key focus, with TRU continuing to expand training in high-demand areas such as skilled trades, health care, business and computing.
Airini also pointed to applied, community-connected research as a growing strength. Initiatives such as TRU Wildfire and applied artificial intelligence through TRU HorAIzon are designed to support industries across the Interior.
“We want businesses to see TRU as a partner they can work with directly,” she said. “Whether it is accessing research expertise, supporting student learning, advancing workforce training or exploring new technologies, we are here to help.”
The university is also advancing efforts to strengthen long-term financial sustainability following sector-wide pressures, including changes to international student policies.
“We understand the pressures many businesses are facing because TRU is navigating change as well,” said Airini. “We are focused on building a strong, sustainable university that continues to deliver for students, communities and employers.”
Airini concluded with a call for deeper collaboration.
“We are moving beyond one-off projects toward stronger, long-term partnerships,” she said. “By working together, we can build a region that attracts talent, supports innovation and creates opportunity for generations to come.”
Thompson Rivers University is leading in sustainability. Learn more about TRU’s contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
