A new opportunity for outdoor gear repair and manufacturing is emerging in British Columbia, making it more convenient for residents to restore damaged outdoor equipment. The College of the Rockies in southeastern B.C. is launching Canada’s inaugural outdoor gear repair and advanced manufacturing center in collaboration with the Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise (KORE), a group representing approximately 100 local gear manufacturers and designers.
Known as the Rehub Circular Technology Centre and backed by $1 million in provincial funding, the facility aims to establish a local research and development hub for gear producers while offering students the chance to learn outdoor equipment design and repair. According to Matt Mosteller, chair of the KORE board, the Kootenay region’s lifestyle revolves around outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and biking, fostering a unique industry focused on outdoor gear.
KORE’s circular gear initiative, which emphasizes extending the lifespan of outdoor equipment through maintenance and repair, involves a mobile repair team that travels throughout the Kootenays during the summer to assist individuals in preserving items like jackets, ski poles, and backpacks. The Gold Creek Campus in Cranbrook will now serve as a permanent base for this initiative. The ultimate objective is for the center to become a central hub in Canada’s outdoor recreation sector by uniting students, industry professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Outdoor recreation contributes significantly to British Columbia’s economy, with data showing a yearly contribution of $4.8 billion. By enhancing the region’s economy and providing students with practical skills, the College of the Rockies aims to solidify its role in adventure education and outdoor recreation. President and CEO Michael Crowe highlighted the importance of linking outdoor expertise with advanced manufacturing, research, and circular economy innovation through the partnership with KORE.
The focus now is on equipping the space with necessary resources for KORE’s maker community, with plans to swiftly implement educational programs. Success in this endeavor could open up career opportunities for students within their local communities, enabling them to pursue their passions while building a stable future for themselves and their families.