The province is once again putting money towards supporting the labour market in a way that will benefit Thompson Rivers University students.

A new student grant program offering up to $6,500 over the course of training is being made available to TRU students of commercial transport vehicle mechanics.

The university is one of four B.C. institutions eligible for the grants.

"Well-trained students will ensure that British Columbia is well-positioned to thrive in tomorrow's economy,” said TRU president Alan Shaver. “It's important that government invest in our province's best asset — our people."

The Labour Market StudentAid BC grant provides up to $2 million in funding each year to qualified applicants who demonstrate financial need.

The grant supports programs identified through consultations with the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and the Industry Training Authority. Choices were based on the provincial government’s Regional Workforce Tables review of institutional priorities.

Regional Workforce Tables are regionally driven groups, with key leaders from industry, labour, employers, First Nations, educators, training service providers and economic development organizations.

Those enrolling in the TRU program and in various trades programs at College of New Caledonia, Northern Lights College and Northwest Community College in 2013-2014 will be eligible for the grant.