Demand for power engineers is growing in northwestern Alberta. By providing modern learning spaces across the province, the government is offering more opportunities for students to pursue careers in this high-demand sector closer to home.
“Skilled workers are the backbone of a modern competitive economy. This strategic investment will benefit Northwestern Polytechnic, industry and the city of Grande Prairie by giving students the opportunity to learn and find a rewarding career in their community.”
The $11.3-million investment will support the development and building of the new power engineering lab at Northwestern Polytechnic’s Grande Prairie campus and create space for an additional 60 students. The new facility will have upgraded and modern equipment for third and fourth class power engineering training.
Two new hydrogen and ammonia processing plants in the Greenview Industrial Gateway and County of Grande Prairie have increased demand for power engineers and instrumentation technicians in the immediate area. This investment will also build new instrumentation laboratories to support additional class offerings, helping students complete their studies more efficiently and join the workforce faster.
"These investments are integral to supporting the development of in-demand skills and specialist expertise in northern Alberta. Northwestern Polytechnic is committed to working with our communities to deliver responsive programming and state-of-the-art facilities that will fuel economic growth and regional competitiveness.”
“The city is grateful for this major investment from the Government of Alberta to support education and job creation in our region. Innovative efficiencies and economic readiness are a top priority of council, and we look forward to the value the new power engineering lab at Northwestern Polytechnic will bring to supporting new and future students, our business community and our local economy.”
Budget 2023 investments at Northwestern Polytechnic total $3.85 million.
- Through Targeted Enrolment Expansion:
- $985,777 for 80 new seats in the practical nurse diploma program
- $368,587 for 48 new seats in the primary care paramedic certificate program
- $2.3 million in funding from the Apprenticeship Learning Grant
- $196,000 in funding from the Health Workforce Action Plan