within two years, say Bermuda College officials.

The Technical Education Centre still has places left on its week-long programme of seminars where participants can take their pick of lucrative careers.

And those worried about funding should take heart -- scholarships are going begging at the moment.

Programme director Michael Stowe explained: "One young man was a butcher's assistant earning $14,000 a year but after graduating from the two-year drafting design technology degree he had a starting salary of $37,000.

"We had another who was earning $8 an hour in a bank but after doing a two-year associate degree in electronic technology he is also on $37,000 in his new career.'' Dr. Charles Finn, who is Dean of the Applied Science and Technology Faculty, said the EduTech Bermuda seminars gave people the chance to spot the opportunities and to understand the commitment needed to make use of them.

He said: "Some people say there are no technical training facilities in the country but it is irritating for me because I am in charge of them.'' He said although there were 30 places on the primer course running from March 27-31 the College could take 100 people on its technical courses.

A further orientation session is set to run later this spring.

Mr. Finn said: "There are a whole range of technical programmes which are under-utilised. Scholarships are going begging. We have to return them to the donors because nobody is using them.'' Courses offered include: automotive bodywork, motor vehicle mechanics, mechanical engineering, electronics, air conditioning, horticultural engineering, electrical construction, carpentry and plumbing.

Most courses last two years.

Mr. Stowe, of International Strategic Management Ltd., said the courses taught social interaction as well as technical skills.

He said: "Students might have good academic backgrounds but lack social skills. We want more well-rounded technicians with skills suitable for employment.'' There are still six places left for the five-day, 20-hour programme. The programme costs $375 and there is a booking fee of $57.

For details call 239-4036.

BUSINESS BUC