The Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) Annual Report for the year ended March 31, 2024, was prepared under the Board’s direction in accordance with the Fiscal Planning and Transparency Act and ministerial guidelines established pursuant to the Postsecondary Learning Act. All material, economic, environmental, or fiscal implications of which we are aware have been considered in the preparation of this report.
Original
signed by
Shawna Miller Chair, Board of Governors
MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR REPORTING
NWP’s management is responsible for the preparation, accuracy, objectivity, and integrity of the information contained in the Annual Report, including the financial statements, performance results, and supporting management information. Systems of internal control are designed and maintained by management to produce reliable information to meet reporting requirements. The system is designed to provide management with reasonable assurance that transactions are properly authorized, are executed in accordance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and policies, reliable financial records are maintained, and assets are properly accounted for and safeguarded.
The Annual Report has been developed under the oversight of the institution audit committee, approved by the Board of Governors, and is prepared in accordance with the Fiscal Planning and Transparency Act and the Post-secondary Learning Act.
The Auditor General of Alberta, the institution’s external auditor, appointed under the Postsecondary Learning Act, performs an annual independent audit of the consolidated financial statements which are prepared in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards.
Original
signed by
Dr. Vanessa Sheane President and CEO
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
It has been another great year for Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) and our steadfast learning community. During the 2023/24 period, we have continued to gain momentum while reaffirming our commitment to delivering results as an impactful polytechnic that listens to the needs of our region, solves problems for industry, and provides students with job-ready skills and connections.
With the benefit of productive discussions and evolving partnerships, NWP remains intent on exploring the true depth of our polytechnic potential. We have diligently worked to refine our organizational approach, strategies, and policies to ensure we meet our mandate effectively while delivering exceptional value to the communities we serve.
This commitment to responsiveness and results has been evidenced in our day-to-day dealings and through the pursuit of new program pathways, including a diverse range of degrees, apprenticeships, diplomas, certificates, and microcredentials.
Just like the vibrant communities that border our campuses, NWP’s four distinctive Schools - Applied Science and Technology, Business, Health, and Skilled Trades - are continuing to grow and evolve. By launching in-demand programs that reflect the energy, creativity, and enthusiasm found in Northern Alberta, and providing advanced industry exposure through immersive work-integrated-learning initiatives, NWP is quickly becoming a destination of choice.
We have also made great headway in proactive facilities management and the identification of new development opportunities that will elevate our polytechnic learning environments over time. Be it through co-location with recognized industry leaders, or modernizing our campus footprint, NWP is focused on delivering unparalleled spaces that inspire confidence and success.
The renewed energy and connections on our campuses are evident at every turn. Enrolment has shown a sustained increase across most areas, which is a testament to NWP’s talented staff and faculty. Along with heightened efforts to showcase the value and relevance of polytechnic education, there seems to be an increased awareness of the welcoming community and opportunities that await at NWP. This is an impressive outcome that not only stems from the efforts within our classrooms, labs, and workshops, but also well beyond campus. We are grateful for the many dedicated individuals, organizations, and leaders throughout the Peace Country and their unwavering support for postsecondary advancement.
Listening to our supporters and partners has been crucial in charting NWP’s direction and ensuring our polytechnic approach resonates with industry and community needs. Community engagement has been a significant priority for us this year and we intend to engage more deeply in years to come through both formal and informal channels. Working collaboratively and communicating with our community partners is foundational to NWP’s identity. That is how we can best serve those who consistently rely on us for knowledge, skills, and timely solutions.
As we move forward, our focus will remain on strengthening these foundational elements and ensuring that NWP continues to be a place of innovation, education, and community connection. There is plenty of runway ahead for success and we are appreciative of all the ongoing support and partnership as we embark on this exciting journey together.
Original signed by Dr. Vanessa Sheane President and CEO
MANDATE STATEMENT
Established under the Post-secondary Learning Act (PSLA), the Board of Governors manages and operates the post-secondary institution within its approved mandate [PSLA Section 60(1)(a)].
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) of Alberta is a public, Board governed post-secondary learning institute operated as a Polytechnic Institution under the authority of the Post-Secondary Learning Act of Alberta.
NWP has set an aspirational goal “to become the most entrepreneurial polytechnic in Canada.” It intends on achieving this goal by fulfilling its role and mandate of offering engaging and empowering educational programs, and innovative and responsive applied research designed to meet the entrepreneurial needs of students, community, and industry. NWP has and will continue to collaborate within the Campus Alberta system and use new approaches and new technology to deliver educational programs that create life-long learners with an entrepreneurial spirit. Entrepreneurial means helping students build confidence to turn risk into opportunity.
Mirroring the entrepreneurial community in which it operates, NWP will deliver an integrated learning approach to academics and applied skills to help students create their dream job and contribute to the success of our region.
NWP provides students with the skills, support, and knowledge required to meet key industry sectors including energy, health care, forestry, agriculture, business, communication, construction, public service, and information technologies.
NWP provides learners with options for career and credential progression by offering academic upgrading, apprenticeship programs, certificate, and diploma programs, as well as applied and baccalaureate degrees alone and in tandem with other providers.
NWP is valued for excellence in four program pillars: Skilled Trades, Health, Applied Science and Technology, and Business. NWP cultivates public and private partnerships that enhance studentlearning outcomes and create career pathways, across its communities.
To advance its goal of growing its domestic, Indigenous, and international student numbers, NWP offers a large selection of courses and programs through a variety of delivery methods, creating flexible learning pathways. In addition, NWP offers customized training and workforce development.
PUBLIC INTEREST DISCLOSURE (WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION) ACT
Northwestern Polytechnic is committed to providing a supportive environment where employees can disclose, make enquiries about, or seek advice regarding potential wrongdoing and cooperate in an investigation of wrongdoing without fear of reprisal. During the 2023/24 period NWP did not have any open action to investigate or findings to report.
BOARD OF GOVERNORS TRAINING
Northwestern Polytechnic’s Board of Governors is committed to growing knowledge and expertise with timely training opportunities. In May 2023, all current board members who were serving in 2023/24 received information on for-profit property development.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW
Northwestern Polytechnic is continuing to realize our polytechnic potential while exploring opportunities for steady growth and achievement. From dayto-day interactions to longer-term goals, NWP’s approach and actions are underpinned by our Strategic Plan, Master Academic Plan, Campus Master Plan, as well as a newly developed Strategic Enrolment Management ActionPlan.
During the 2023-24 academic year, we remained focused on delivering work ready graduates and expanding our signature programming in Business, Applied Science and Technology, Health, and Skilled Trades in order to enhance post-secondary access for domestic and international communities.
EXPANDING ACCESS AND ENHANCING THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) remains steadfast in our commitment to providing accessible and responsive education that empowers potential. With the benefit of labour market analyses, environmental scanning, productive partnerships, and continuous engagement, we are delivering in-demand programming and developing next generation professionals through our four distinctive SchoolsApplied Science and Technology, Business, Health, and Skilled Trades.
APPLIED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMMING
While Fall 2023, marked a significant milestone with the first cohort of students in NWP’s new Bachelor of Computing Science program, there were other noteworthy additions in the School of Applied Science and Technology.
During Spring 2023, the Government of Alberta announced an $11.3 million capital investment to support NWP’s Power Engineering, Instrumentation, and Control Technology program expansion on the Grande Prairie campus.
Once complete in 2026, the new laboratory will equip students with the skills and knowledge to diagnose, configure, calibrate, and maintain various pneumatic, analog, and digital measurement and indicating instrumentation. To coincide with this development, NWP has requested approval for a new two-year Power Engineering Technology Diploma.
Northwestern Polytechnic is fortunate to have an array of unparalleled learning environments. From a colocated learning laboratory within the Spartan Controls industrial hub, to a working farm in Fairview, NWP is focused on delivering hands-on experiences within industry-replicated settings.
NWP remains focused on student and graduate success. In September 2023, we penned an agreement with the University of Lethbridge to extend educational pathways for students at NWP’s Fairview campus. The new collaborative partnership enables NWP’s Animal Health Technology (AHT) diploma graduates to seamlessly transfer into a Post-Diploma Bachelor of Arts or Post-Diploma Bachelor of Science (Agricultural Studies) at the University of Lethbridge.
NWP’s two-year Animal Health Technology diploma is an increasingly popular offering and a great choice for those interested in learning more about animal nursing, surgical assistance, and laboratory procedures. This new partnership makes the qualification even more versatile.
In anticipation of growing regional needs, NWP also put forward a handful of new School of Applied Science and Technology program submissions during this period. Requests for the following offerings are pending with a view to launch in Fall 2024 or later if successful:
• Water and Wastewater Technician certificate
• Agriculture Operations diploma
• University Biological Sciences diploma
• University Arts diploma – emphases in English and Psychology
OPERATIONAL
NWP’s Fine Arts department, Visual Art, and Design also retooled select courses to meet current trends and match the demands of our modern student. This work included:
• Curriculum revisions to leverage Polytechnic status and create a more substantial focus on four core areas: drawing, painting, sculpture, and design.
• Modifications of course descriptions to clarify the sequencing of skill and knowledge building from one term to the next and from year to year.
• Building sequentially as a program in addition to developing individual areas, so that student’s skills, techniques, confidence, autonomy, and interpretation can evolve across all areas to maximize learning.
• Adjusting courses to run for one term for consistency between the core discipline areas of drawing, painting, and sculpture, and to align with other offerings.
• Adopting a more global approach in Art History to better serve the community.
• Evolving the diploma program to unlock the potential for new transfer agreements and partnerships.
BUSINESS PROGRAMMING
Recognizing the opportunities that coincide with signature northern Alberta industries and the region’s distinctive entrepreneurial energy, NWP’s School of Business has continued to build momentum.
NWP launched year one of its Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in September 2023. This four-year program can be completed in its entirety at NWP and has been strategically designed to prepare graduates for a wide variety of business disciplines.
BBA students can select an emphasis in either Accounting or Human Resources (HR). Completion of the BBA will enable students to earn credit towards a number of professional designations including:
• Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA), and
• Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR).
In an effort to support an agile workforce and keep talent ahead of the curve in evolving areas, the School of Business also broadened expanded program access with the following new approvals/ offerings:
• Addition of Business Administration Post-Diploma Certificates in Human Resource Management, Financial Planning, and Marketing. These certificates launched in January 2024 and are ideal for students who have a post-secondary credential such as a diploma or bachelor’s degree that they would like to strengthen with career-focused education and experience.
• Two-year Office Management diploma with areas of emphasis that include Bookkeeping, Human Resources Administration, Legal Office Administration, and Office Marketing. Approved in October 2023, the Office Management diploma will commence in Fall 2024 and provide students with the necessary computer, administrative, and communication skills to succeed in a dynamic office environment.
• Indigenous Leadership and Hospitality Management emphases within the Business Administration Diploma program were also approved in Fall 2023. The additional specialties will kick off in Fall 2024 and allow students to hone their focus while acquiring the necessary business skills and knowledge to work in a professional setting.
NWP’s School of Business continues to work within the community to identify areas of need and opportunity. Our Continuing Education department is actively exploring new micro-credentials and other short-term programming that will help bridge labour gaps and enhance community success.
NWP has added even more micro-credential avenues to promote the rapid acquisition of job-ready skills in Indigenous Health and Mental Wellness, Basic Bookkeeping, Master Electrician, and Medical Office Administration. First introduced at the Polytechnic in 2022, micro-credential training allows students to enhance their knowledge and skill set with flexible, short-term training.
NWP’s micro-credential stream has been developed in partnership with the Alberta government
who allocated nearly $400,000 to support the Polytechnic’s flexible learning options during this period. Additional micro-credential courses slated for 2024 include Animal Health Care Aide, Bovine Ultrasound, Remotely Operated Aircraft, and Electric Vehicle Repair.
In October 2023, NWP’s Continuing Education department also announced the Practice Preparation for Domestic and Internationally Educated Nurses program. This new learning pathway enables nurses at any point in their career to pursue further development opportunities in a variety of subjects, including maternity care, pharmacology, jurisprudence, and Indigenous health. In time, NWP will offer seven courses that will help enhance healthcare professional knowledge and boost local capacity.
Future educators and community well-being were also top of mind for NWP in 2023/24. The polytechnic began exploration of one-year Educational Assistant Certificates with specialized pathways in Literacy Supports and Inclusion Supports. If successful, these programs will be offered completely online and will benefit students who can only commit to part-time studies. NWP has also been working closely with regional schools on a degree proposal for a Bachelor of Education that is currently moving through the review process.
HEALTH PROGRAMMING
Northwestern Polytechnic is committed to getting more healthcare professionals qualified and successfully integrated into our growing and aging communities.
In April 2023, local health care training offerings were boosted with the announcement of a Fairview based Practical Nurse (PN) diploma and approval to develop a new Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) program. This year-long PCP certificate was subsequently approved in early 2024 and will launch in Fall 2024.
The PCP certificate prepares students with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate in a fastpaced environment, helping people in need and saving lives. Students will learn about pre-hospital
care, emergency medical services, and how to provide critical care in emergency situations.
Building on the success of the first ever cohort of Practical Nurses launched in Grande Prairie in 2022, NWP initiated an identical two-year diploma at the Fairview campus in Fall 2023. Practical Nurse graduates are integral in providing nursing care in a variety of health care settings, such as hospitals, the community, and other health care agencies.
NWP grads are eligible to seek licensure through the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta toward obtaining their status as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
NWP is proud to offer collaborative degree programs for Nursing, Arts, Science, Education, and more. Over the last two decades, our institution has produced nearly 1000 nursing graduates who have had the benefit of classroom learning and clinical placements in surrounding health care facilities.
The quality of our training programs continues to be evidenced by graduate results. This year, graduates of the BScN program at NWP had an NCLEX pass rate of 96% which ranks the program second out of 14 in Alberta, and 19 out of 113 in Canada. Similarly, the inaugural Grande Prairie class of Practical Nursing students had a 100% pass rate on the CPRNE.
NWP is invested in the development of innovative programming, leading-edge training tools and technology, and new purpose-built spaces to meet the learning needs of our future rural health workforce.
The School of Health is developing a simulation program that provides the opportunity for students, community, and industry to learn in a safe and controlled environment. NWP has approximately 20 manikins of medium to high fidelity, monitors with multiple interfaces, and task trainers.
The growth of the School of Health’s simulation program has enhanced opportunities for immersive learning. Utilizing various simulated teaching and learning strategies, including standardized patients, low-, medium-, and high-fidelity simulators, and a wide range of training models, students benefit from innovative and safe learning environments. The program offers high-risk and otherwise hardto-obtain clinical experiences (e.g., cardiac arrest,
childbirth, or additional practice time) to enrich students’ education.
Health Education Centre learning labs are equipped with live streaming, audio, and video recording capabilities. These spaces have been designed to replicate acute care hospital environments and include clinical equipment such as beds, stretchers, IV pumps, glucometers, and live headwalls with medical gases and suction.
NWP continues to advance impactful collaborations with Alberta Health Services, fellow post-secondary institutions, Maskwa Medical, and others. Our goal is to develop integrated new medical education facilities on-campus and within our growing health education district footprint.
As always, NWP is appreciative of the strengthened linkages between education and health sectors, and we are looking forward to realizing our polytechnic potential with the help of our great partners.
SKILLED TRADES PROGRAMMING
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) has continued to add programming and training capacity across our campuses to keep pace with the growing demand for skilled trades professionals globally.
Along with being immensely proud to be northern Alberta’s largest Skilled Trades training institution, we are primed for growth. The Peace Region continues to be a location of choice for a diverse range of industries and economic activity, and NWP is here to support that success.
During the 2023/24 period, NWP increased Fairview Campus apprenticeship seats from 550 in 2022/23 to 648 in 2023/24, with a similar upward trend at the Grande Prairie Campus where the number of apprenticeship seats rose from 369 seats in 2022/23 to 519 seats in 2023/24.
NWP is working with industry partners and taking action to support workforce needs within signature industries.
• In collaboration with Finning/Caterpillar, a third ThinkBIG Diploma intake was added in March 2024, opening 20 additional seats in the distinctive heavy equipment service program. The timely expansion will see total of 80 ThinkBIG students on campus by Spring 2025.
• The polytechnic once again took the opportunity to collaborate with Women Building Futures (WBF) and their Journey 2 Trades program in February 2024. This 12-week program introduces women and gender-diverse individuals from the region to various trades, offers skills training, provides an opportunity to learn which trade they may like to pursue as a career, and is integral in enhancing NWP’s ability to support women in achieving economic security through trades training.
• Instrumentation and Control Technician apprenticeship students continue to be fully immersed in their learning as they receive the bulk of their training right in the heart of Spartan Controls’ Inc. leading-edge facility in Grande Prairie. The benefits are clear with NWP students able to access the latest industry tools and technology as they build their knowledge, develop their network, and launch their careers.
Space optimization and learning environment enhancement and integration continue to be a priority for NWP.
In the Winter of 2024, the Parts Technician and Instrumentation and Control Technician trades’ classroom instruction was relocated within the Grande Prairie Campus to the main building, increasing room utilization.
Every effort is being made to impact workforce readiness and success by instilling specialized skills, knowledge, and abilities that will propel the region forward.
INSTITUTIONAL REALITIES AND CHALLENGES
During the 2023/24 period, NWP continued to gain traction and confidence in new polytechnic territory. Both the institution and surrounding learning community benefited from an enhanced understanding of NWP’s polytechnic mandate, associated opportunities, and expanded runway for growth.
For the second year in a row, NWP’s enrolment trended upwards in most credentials, reinforcing the efforts of staff, faculty, and leadership to enhance offerings, improve efficiency, and encourage engagement.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENTS
In November 2023, Dr. Vanessa Sheane was announced as the institution’s 11th President and CEO. NWP also welcomed a new Vice-President External Relations, and a search was initiated for the Provost and Vice-President Academic position.
These changes, along with other Core Leadership Team transitions, provided a timely opportunity to take a closer look at select elements of the Polytechnic’s operational and strategic approach.
ENROLMENT INCREASES
Enrolment has been consistently on the rise since 2021/22 with the annual growth percentages increasing every year. The almost decade-long downward trend which existed prior to 2021/22 has been successfully reversed.
For the 2023/24 academic year, NWP had 1994.57 full-time load equivalents (FLE). This is an increase of 357.05 from the previous academic year: 2022/23. It should be noted that academic year in this case refers to LERS reporting period of Spring – Winter.
One of the major factors behind this rise in enrolment is the significant growth in diploma program interest. Overall enrolment for diploma programs in 2023/24 has almost doubled as compared to 2022/23.
This uptick may be attributed to NWP’s refined focus on labour force needs and market demand alignment and in particular, a targeted range of diploma programs offerings in Business Administration, Computer Systems Technology, Early Learning and Child Care, and Practical Nurse.
In addition to growing domestic interest, diploma pathways are also increasingly popular among international students. Total international enrolment for diploma programs in 2023/24 was almost six times that of 2022/23.
The growth in international enrolment has also contributed to NWP’s rise in enrolment. In 2023/24, NWP had more than double the number of international students that were registered in 2022/23. This positive trend can be attributed to converging factors like favourable international travel conditions and greater ease in securing a student visa. The most popular programs among international students in 2023/24 included the diploma programs in Business Administration and Early Learning and Childcare.
Domestic enrolment has followed a gentle upward trend in most areas. A closer look by credential shows a growing interest in apprenticeship and diploma programs, with fewer certificate program enrolments during this period.
The two newly added degree programs: Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Computing Science, have succeeded in generating substantial interest among domestic students as evidenced by enrolment numbers.
The highest growth across NWP campuses was seen in the apprenticeship programs. Heavy Equipment Technician and Electrician programs were enrolment leaders with the ThinkBig Service Technician diploma program also very popular among domestic students.
Overall, the addition of two new degree programs, growing popularity of our diploma programs, and the increased focus on international students has been integral in increasing NWP’s enrolment.
FLE ENROLMENT BY CREDENTIAL
ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES
Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) is integral to NWP’s physical and financial stability. In 2023/24 the ERM unit supported the above initiatives through the following undertakings:
1. LERS reporting changes: academic year 2022/23 and 2023/24 are from Spring to Winter terms.
2. 2023/24 LERS actuals are not finalized as of May 2024. Unofficial apprenticeship enrolment numbers (Atoms) are included in Certificate above. Official Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) enrolment numbers are forthcoming.
3. Certificate credentials include standard, pre-employment, and journeyman (apprenticeship) program types.
4. Non-credentials include university transfers, open studies, and academic upgrading.
PROGRAM SUSPENSIONS
Low enrolment along with fluctuations in student and labour market demand continue to influence program suspensions at NWP.
As noted in the previous reporting period, Cooperative Trades Orientation (CTO) and Preemployment Electrician remain suspended until June 30, 2025 and NWP’s Aboriginal Administration, Music Diploma, Unit Clerk, and the UT: Bachelor of Music continue to be suspended until June 30, 2026.
NWP also suspended the Accounting, Financial Services, Management, and Marketing Specializations in the Business Administration Diploma as well as the Basic Bookkeeping, Legal, and Oil & Gas Specializations in Office Professional until June 30, 2026.
These Business School program specializations were deemed unnecessary following the introduction of emphases as part of NWP’s successful Bachelor of Business Administration degree implementation. It was felt that suspending specializations would also provide more flexibility to students as we grow the Office Professional certificate program and explore an additional Office Management diploma route.
• The Risk Management Advisory Committee (RMAC) met four times to assess the risk register, validate risk treatments/risk mitigation strategies on existing and newly identified risks, and initiate/ monitor action plans.
• ERM information was provided to the Executive team, and at Board of Governors Audit Committee meetings. Any extreme, high, or non-compliant risks noted would be addressed through strategic and operational action plans.
• NWP’s ERM Guidelines were updated with likelihood and consequence ratings, and the ERM / RMAC SharePoint site was revised.
• Department meetings were held to update the risk register per their specific areas.
• Worked with local municipal emergency preparedness, and safety organizations on improving shared knowledge and emergency response processes.
• Provided tours to external entities and contractors to complete safety inspections and maintain safety infrastructure.
• Facilitated Asbestos Awareness virtual and in-person sessions.
• Updated NWP’s Biosafety Manual.
• Organized standard first aid training at the Fairview Campus, and hosted CardiacCrash Awareness – Virtual Programs.
• Scheduled influenza immunization clinics at the Grande Prairie Campus.
• Facilitated fire drills.
• Arranged for Sexual Violence Policy – Disclosure Training through Grande Prairie’s PACE community Support, Sexual Assault & Trauma Centre.
• Shared risk and safety information at department meetings, and through NWP Insider Today articles, provided updates about the NWP Safety App, and emergency response approach.
GOALS, PRIORITY INITIATIVES, AND EXPECTED OUTCOMES
In accordance with the roles and mandates outlined in the Post-secondary Learning Act, and as elaborated in the Roles and Mandates Policy Framework, a polytechnic institutional strategic plan was officially launched in March 2022.
This ten-year strategic plan – Edge of Distinction 2022 - was initially developed to move our institution toward an aspirational goal of becoming the most entrepreneurial polytechnic in Canada by 2034.
The strategic approach was underpinned by the following six overarching goals with select one-, three-, five-, and ten-year targets:
• Every student has the opportunity to enrol in entrepreneurial education
• Design, develop, and implement a Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence
• Increase domestic and international enrolment
• Increase new non-provincial government funding
• Increase physical infrastructure utilization of our learning environment
• Become one of the top 100 employers in Canada
During the 2023/24 period, Northwestern Polytechnic has continued to explore the best avenues for achieving our polytechnic mandate, optimizing our presence in northern Alberta, and delivering value to communities and industries.
While these efforts have been consistent, some strategic priorities have naturally evolved as a result of changes in leadership and additional feedback from local engagement efforts.
The appointment of the institution’s 11th President and CEO, Dr. Vanessa Sheane was a notable milestone in November 2023. This leadership transition provided the impetus for further review of select strategic plan elements as well as the exploration and advancement of emerging new priorities.
A local engagement initiative was undertaken by a third party in early 2024 to garner feedback from the learning community, partners, polytechnic supporters, and others.
It is important to note that this work was ongoing as of March 31st, 2024. Moreover, the expectation that there would be changes to select priorities and NWP’s strategic approach may have influenced progress on some of the overarching goals and initiatives noted in the tables below.
A comprehensive list of achievements has been included in this report within dedicated sections:
• Programming activities are listed in the Operational Overview section.
• Applied Research and Scholarly Activities can be found in the Research, Applied Research, and Scholarly Activities section.
• Student Support and Regional Stewardship can be found in the Regional Stewardship, Foundational Learning, Underrepresented Learners, and Information Technology section.
ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION
BY 2034, EVERY STUDENT HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENROLL IN ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION
Alignment of Adult Learning System Principles: Accessibility, Quality, Accountability, and Coordination
PRIORITY INITIATIVES
Right-time Education
Evolve our programs to reflect industry/student demand and best practices; embrace nontraditional delivery.
PROGRESS MADE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS
Degree-granting:
Bachelor of Computing Science and Bachelor of Business Administration degrees fully operational; University Transfer in Engineering program reinstated; Collaborative partnership with University of Lethbridge for Animal Health Technology diploma laddering implemented.
Adaptive Programming:
Inclusion of a new pathway for skilled trades journeypersons to upskill business acumen and further advance career goals. Trade qualification recognition facilitates BBA admission eligibility, with 45 credits granted towards this degree. This is a unique opportunity for journeypersons.
Immersive Learning:
Implementation of co-operative, 200-hour work experience courses that were championed by Business Administration Program Advisory Committee.
Deepened understanding of entrepreneurial acceptance, direction, and expectations following targeted community engagement sessions.
Heightened efforts to expand programming across Schools including:
1. Applied Science and Technology: Approval pending for new programming:
• Water and Wastewater Technician certificate
• Agriculture Operations diploma
• University Biological Sciences diploma
• University Arts diploma – emphases in English and Psychology
2. Business: Administration Post-Diploma Certificates; Business Administration Diploma with new emphases in Indigenous Leadership and Hospitality Management; Office Management diploma with focus on Bookkeeping, Human Resources Administration, Legal Office Administration, and Office Marketing.
3. Implementation of additional micro-credentials offered through Continuing Education:
• Indigenous Health and Mental Wellness, Basic Bookkeeping, Master Electrician, and Medical Office Administration
4. Health: Practical Nursing (PN); Primary Care Paramedic (PCP); and Practice Preparation for Domestic and Internationally Educated Nurses programs.
5. Skilled Trades: new intake for ThinkBIG Diploma added.
CENTRE FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL EXCELLENCE
BY 2034, A FULLY OPERATIONAL CENTRE FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL
EXCELLENCE
Alignment of Adult Learning System Principles: Accessibility, Quality, and Accountability
PRIORITY INITIATIVES
Implement a learning, teaching, and research environment that inspires, incubates, and supports entrepreneurship in the community, through anticipation, leadership, and strategic partnership.
PROGRESS MADE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS
• Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence funding proposal submitted to Prairies Canada in July 2023 and approved in March 2024.
• Continued exploration of opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
• Avenues for additional sponsorship and naming right contributions underway.
NON-PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT FUNDING
BY 2034, SECURE $25 MILLION IN NEW NON-PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT FUNDING
Alignment of Adult Learning System Principles: Affordability and Accountability
PRIORITY INITIATIVES
Grow Non-Govt Revenue
Further reduce dependency on govt funding by entrepreneurially increasing funding sources through asset trust agreements, and other sources.
Enrolment Revenue Growth
Increase domestic and international enrolment revenue growth to reduce dependency on govt funding.
PROGRESS MADE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS
Facilities and Services:
• Foundational funding ($3.2M) from Prairies Economic Development Canada (Prairies Can) confirmed for Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence establishment. Verbal funding commitment for naming rights also secured.
• Ongoing review of investment policy and investment portfolio.
• Optimization of land in the Hidden Valley subdivision for potential partnerships.
• Business case for the formation of NWP Properties Trust developed and awaiting ministry approval.
Research and Innovation funding:
• Ongoing $1M grant to support regenerative agriculture (5 year total commitment).
• National Bee Diagnostic Centre: Technology Access Centre (TAC) top up grant secured ($200,000) to create more TAC activity and service visibility.
• Applied Research Tools and Instruments (ARTI) funding from Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) received for honey testing equipment to boost product testing capacity ($199,851).
Enrolment Revenue Growth
• Heightened tuition revenue resulting from 21% increase in enrolment.
DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL ENROLMENT
BY 2034, 100% INCREASE IN DOMESTIC ENROLMENT AND 600 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Alignment of Adult Learning System Principles: Accessibility, Affordability, Quality, and Accountability
PRIORITY INITIATIVES
Attract and retain domestic and international life-long learners and provide them with the confidence to turn risk into opportunity.
PROGRESS MADE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS
Strategic Enrolment Management (SEM) Governance Committee established with clear roles and responsibilities, as well as a Terms of Reference, and SEM web presence to encourage staff engagement.
Institution-wide SEM kick-off event held in November 2023. Ongoing implementation of SEM Plan quick wins and action items.
Development and implementation of a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to support data capture and analysis across the student lifecycle.
Attracting and retaining domestic and international students:
Increased domestic recruitment presence in Alberta.
• International activities in Italy, Philippines, and Vietnam.
• Increased engagement in Indigenous communities in Alberta and BC.
• Joined the Grande Prairie Local Immigration Partnership Committee.
• Developed partnership with the City of GP to deliver welcome packages to new international students. Focus on introducing transportation, recreation, and connection to community supports.
• The Accessibility Support team facilitated a 26% increase in student accommodations.
• Enhanced focus on student mental health investment with development of a CARE Team to support students of concern. Program to launch in Fall 2024.
• Established partnerships with international recruiters.
• Career Services saw a significant increase in appointments and a majority of international students have secured employment in our community through the active support of tailored Career Service workshops.
• Hosted a variety of well-attended cultural events, including: Diwali, Christmas Celebration with Santa, Lunar New Year, Holi, International Education Day, and Welcome BBQ Social.
PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE UTILIZATION
BY 2034, REACH 80% PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE UTILIZATION OF OUR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Alignment of Adult Learning System Principles: Affordability, Quality, and Accountability
PRIORITY INITIATIVES
Maximize Asset Utilization
Design and manage highquality spaces that enhance and support entrepreneurial education, facilitate teaching excellence, and foster positive on-campus learning and living experiences.
PROGRESS MADE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS
NWP’s ten-year Capital Master Plan approved by the Board of Governors in March 2024.
• Continued work with individual departments to develop functional programs which formalize physical space needs for each respective area.
• Facilities and Registrar’s Office are working together to develop space booking best practices and guidelines that will allow accurate data collection and utilization analysis to occur for the Fairview Campus.
• Utilization analysis and dashboard provided by ThinkSpace for the Grande Prairie Campus.
• Real utilization rate increased from 25 to 31% from 2021/22.
• Health Education Centre real utilization is 37% for the 2023/24 academic year.
• Space Audit completed and draft of new Space Management Guidelines developed.
• Facilities continues to work with individual departments to develop functional programs which formalize physical space needs for each respective area.
• A sessional space with six touchdown workstations for faculty and staff is scheduled to be completed in July 2024.
TOP 100 EMPLOYERS IN CANADA
BY 2034, BE NOMINATED AS ONE OF THE TOP 100 EMPLOYERS IN CANADA
Alignment of Adult Learning System Principles: Affordability, Quality, and Accountability
PRIORITY INITIATIVES
Entrepreneurial Alignment
Clarity and commitment to an entrepreneurial mindset and strategy.
PROGRESS
MADE IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS
• Completed employee engagement survey and commenced initial stage of ERP system adoption to enhance and fast track onboarding and recruitment.
• Began development of Leadership Training Program to build relationships and trust within the organization and employee groups. Implementation scheduled for Fall 2024.
• Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) working group established and operational.
• Preliminary work on enhanced Indigenization focus commenced.
• Planning for inaugural NWP Day to nurture staff and faculty connections and build culture. Long-term Service Awards to be integrated into this recognition and celebration event.
FINANCIAL AND BUDGET INFORMATION
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
The following information should be read in conjunction with the Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended March 31, 2024 located at the appendix of this report.
NWP’s consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian public sector accounting standards and represent the consolidated financial results of Northwestern Polytechnic and the Northwestern Polytechnic Foundation.
This discussion and analysis provide an overview of NWP’s:
• Financial Results
• Revenue and Expenses
• Capital Acquisitions
• Net Assets
• Areas of Significant Financial Risk
CHANGE IN FISCAL YEAR
This reporting period captures the implementation of NWP’s fiscal year-end alignment with Government of Alberta reporting cycles. This change in fiscal year end was approved by the Minister of Advanced Education on December 14, 2021.
Information included in the 2023/24 consolidated financial statements reflects the first complete fiscal period consisting of the revised 12-month period ending March 31, 2024 instead of the previously used nine-month period ending March 31, 2023. As a result, the two periods are not entirely comparable.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
In March 2023, the Board of Governors approved a balanced operational budget for 2023/24. NWP ended the fiscal year with an annual surplus of $2.5 million (annual surplus of $4.6 million in 2022/23). This includes endowment contributions of $30,000 ($0.6M in 2022/23). The surplus also included a $3.7 million remeasurement gain ($1.5 million gain in 2022/23) related to unrealized investment gains, resulting in an increase in net assets to $58.6 million ($52.4 million in 2022/23).
REVENUE AND EXPENSES
Revenue for the 2023/24 fiscal year totalled $76.9 million, $11.9 million more than budgeted.
Government of Alberta grants are the most significant source of revenue for NWP, with $51.2 million recognized in 2023/24, $5.3 million more than budgeted. The difference from the budget is primarily due to the use of the institution’s Capital Maintenance and Renewal grant that had been deferred in the prior year as well as use of current year funding.
Student tuition and fees revenue was $5.0 million higher than budgeted due to an increase in FLE’s and an approved tuition and fee cost increase.
In the current year NWP experienced both realized investment income of $1.1 million and an unrealized investment gain of $3.7 million. This reflects the ongoing volatility in the market which resulted in a $1.5 million unrealized investment gain in 2022/23, and the success of NWP’s 2023 strategy to diversify its investment portfolio.
2023-2024 REVENUE (IN MILLIONS)
$51.2 Government of Alberta Grants
$16.2 Student Tuitions and Fees
$6 Sales of Services and Products
$1.4 Donations and Other Contributions
$1.1 Investment Income
$1 Federal and Other Government Grants
Expenses for the 2023/24 fiscal year totalled $74.5 million, $9.5 million more than budgeted.
Salaries and benefits were the largest expense at $43.2 million ($28.3 million in 2022/23), representing 58% of total expenditures for 2023/24. Total costs related to salaries and benefits was $1.1. million more than budgeted.
2023-2024 EXPENSES BY OBJECT (IN MILLIONS)
$43.2 Salaries and Benefits
$14.8 Materials, Supplies, and Services
$7.8 Maintenance and Repairs
$5.5 Amortization of Capital Assets
$2.2 Utilities
$0.8 Scholarships and Burseries
$0.15 Cost of Goods Sold
2023-2024 EXPENSES BY FUNCTION (IN MILLIONS)
$26.9 Instruction
$18.1 Facility Operations and Maintenance
$12.3 Academic and Student Support
$11.9 Institutional Support
$3.6 Ancillary Services
$1.1 Sponsored Research
$0.6 Special Purpose
CAPITAL ACQUISITIONS
During the 2023/24 fiscal year, acquisitions of tangible capital assets totalled $5.0 million, of which $2.3 million was funded internally. The most significant capital construction projects included building construction of the Grande Prairie Power Engineering and Instrumentation Lab, improvements to the Grande Prairie and Fairview boilers, and completion of the Grande Prairie soccer field irrigation system. Other significant acquisitions included computer equipment for the Grande Prairie campus and residence wireless connectivity upgrade, instructional equipment for a Welding Hydraulic Universal Testing Machine, automotive equipment for a Continuing Education Flatdeck Trailer, and other equipment for wayfinding and signage.
NET ASSETS
The Polytechnic ended the 2023/24 fiscal year with a net asset balance of $58.6 million, an increase from $52.4 million at the end of 2022/23. The increase was due to the annual surplus of $2.5 million. Net assets are comprised of:
Endowments consist of externally restricted donations received by the Polytechnic and internal allocations by the Polytechnic’s Board of Governors, the principal of which is required to be maintained intact in perpetuity. During the year, there were endowment contributions received of $30,000 ($0.6 million for 2022/23).
Internally restricted surplus represents amounts set aside due to the nature of the source of the funds or by the Board of Governors for specific purposes. During the year, the Board moved $2.9 million from accumulated surplus to internally restricted surplus. Within the internally restricted surplus, these funds were allocated to Capital Renewal and Upgrade. Investment in internally funded tangible capital assets represents the amount of the Polytechnic’s accumulated surplus that has been invested in capital assets. During the year, there was $2.3 million of acquisitions, $0.6 million of debt repayment, and $2.6 million of amortization relating to internally funded tangible capital assets.
AREAS OF SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL RISK
FISCAL UNCERTAINTY
The Campus Alberta grant is the primary source of funding for the Polytechnic’s day-to-day operating activities. To that end, the Government’s ability to allocate post-secondary grant funding is influenced by the economic outlook for the province and associated debt levels.
After several years of reductions, funding appears to have stabilized. The impact to NWP’s revenue was a 1% change to the Campus Alberta base operating grant, bringing the total amount received to $375,213.
The expansion of IMAs (institutional mandate agreements) require certain targets to be met and are somewhat unique to each institution while still rooted in Alberta 2030. In 2023/24 up to 25% of base funding could have been impacted in the following year if targets are not met, and up to 40% in
2025/26. While IMAs parameters are clearly outlined, they still pose a small amount of risk to the following year’s budget if they are not met.
The Polytechnic has a significant amount of space on both the Fairview and Grande Prairie Campus. This includes instructional, administrative, and residential space. The Campus Master Plan work guides the Polytechnic in the development of a plan that includes renovated, consolidated, and future space needs. The financial statement highlights that a significant part of the Polytechnic’s infrastructure is fully amortized and will require renovation or renewal to maintain its functionality.
DEFERRED MAINTENANCE
NWP estimates that deferred maintenance costs are approximately $30.3 million over the next four years, including the replacement of capital assets nearing the end of their useful life.
The Capital Maintenance and Renewal (CMR) funding from the province for 2023/24 is $3.4 million.
If this program funding remains static over the four-year period, there will be insufficient funds for deferred maintenance costs. As a result, NWP is focusing on ensuring proper prioritization of deferred maintenance items in order to maximize benefits and minimize negative impact on NWP and its students.
The provincial budget for CMR does indicate that CMR funding is set to decline after 2023/24. The combination of budgetary pressure as well as insufficient CMR funding will impact the ability for NWP to appropriately manage and address deferred maintenance risk.
SELF-GENERATED REVENUE
For the 2023/24 period, Northwestern Polytechnic reported a total of approximately $25.7 million in self-generated revenue stemming from a variety of categories detailed in the table below.
B. Auxiliary/Ancillary Services (examples: bookstores, student residences, parking lots, laundry services, printing, sports and recreational facilities, rentals and catering services, cafeterias, etc.)
E. Other Grants (examples: grants from not for profit, grants from other governments, grants from businesses, etc.)
F. Land Trusts and For-Profit Ventures (any revenue-generating subsidiary entity, total revenue).
G. Other - Any other self-generated revenue not captured in the previous categories.
CAPITAL PLAN
BUDGET 2024-2025 SUMMARY
NWP’s three-year budget projection is underpinned by the institution’s strategic priorities. We will continue to invest in enrolment growth through both operational and capital spending.
Our Board of Governors has committed the institution’s reserves towards investment in the improvement and repurposing of physical and digital infrastructure to expand program offerings and enhance the student experience.
Reserves have also been directed towards upgrading our financial, human resources, and student information systems in an effort to reduce student application processing times, centralize information management, and automate manual processes to ensure operational effectiveness. In March 2024, NWP’s Board of Governors approved the use of $23.1 million of reserves to advance the three-year Capital Plan.
Northwestern Polytechnic’s mandate is to transform post-secondary in northern Alberta through polytechnic education, research, and partnerships. Budget 2024/25 will enable Northwestern Polytechnic to deliver on its mandate.
BUILDING OUR POLYTECHNIC FUTURE
Three overarching principles will be applied to capital infrastructure investment at NWP moving forward.
1. Investment in new and expansion projects will be fully aligned with the institution’s Strategic Plan, Master Academic Plan, and our Investment Management Agreement with the Government of Alberta.
2. NWP will remain focused on the preservation and maintenance of existing infrastructure that adds value for learners.
3. NWP will divest itself of physical infrastructure that has reached end of useful life or those assets which no longer provide value to enhance sustainability and demonstrate operational effectiveness.
NWP’s Campus Master Plan was updated in 2023. This work has informed our Board approved threeyear Capital Plan and provided insight into our tenyear Capital Outlook.
HONING OUR TRADES FOCUS
NWP recognizes the impact of skilled trades shortages and we are committed to supporting local industries and regional competitiveness. To that end, we have prioritized investment in skilled trades programming, infrastructure, and industry partnerships.
To serve growing demand for skilled trades training in northern Alberta, we require new and modernized training space on our Grande Prairie and Fairview campuses. As such, this reporting period included expansion initiatives, refurbishment, upgrades, and space consolidation to heighten campus functionality and ensure space optimization. During the 2023/24 period NWP was approved to build Class 3 Power Engineering and period 1 - 4 Instrumentation Technology laboratories within the Douglas J. Cardinal building. Much work has gone into preliminary design phases with construction set to begin in April 2024.
NWP also began gearing up to submit a $157.3 million proposal for the development of new and expanded skilled trades training space to the Government of Alberta through the annual BLIMS process. In anticipation of this project, we proactively designated institutional reserves to support the beginning phases of skilled trades training center development within Grande Prairie.
The expansion of NWP’s Millwright apprenticeship program and relocation of our Electrical apprenticeship program into the Douglas J. Cardinal building commenced in early 2024 with the kickoff of the design phase and comparable facility touring.
While this project will span multiple reporting periods if successful, NWP is focused on establishing a solid foundation for the future.
ADVANCING INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIPS
Throughout this period, NWP has also been working with post-secondary collaborators across the province to explore the feasibility of an innovative rural medical education training model.
In February of 2024, NWP received confirmation of Government of Alberta funding for Rural Medical Education training program development in Grande Prairie. NWP will be receiving $7.67 million to build a full-service anatomy laboratory within our Douglas J. Cardinal building and develop dedicated physician training space within our Health Education Centre at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital.
Together with the University of Alberta, we are preparing to welcome the first cohort of medical students in Fall 2025.
ENHANCING REGIONAL COMPETITIVENESS
Known for its distinctive industries and entrepreneurial spirit, northern Alberta is a key economic engine for the province.
In 2022, NWP began exploration of a significant potential contributor to the regional economy - a Centre for Entrepreneurial Excellence (CEE).
A submission for Prairies Canada funding was provided in July 2023 with subsequent approval granted in March 2024. This funding will facilitate the development of the new CEE on NWP’s Grande Prairie campus within the existing Trades Building.
Along with the creation of new spaces to differentiate our institution, NWP is also focused on renewing our existing infrastructure to reduce deferred maintenance costs and liabilities.
During this period NWP worked on Capital Plan priorities including replacement of in-ground site services and renewal of Hemstock and Loggie residences on our Fairview campus. NWP is also awaiting approval of a properties trust application with Advanced Education. It is anticipated that this funding stream will help to bridge Maintenance & Renewal (CMR) funding gaps.
CAPITAL INVESTMENT
A Ten-Year Facilities Plan 2024–2034 was developed. NWP’s long-term Facilities Plan pairs strategic goals with potential funding needs and sources.
While the provincial Capital Maintenance Renewal (CMR) funding supports maintenance and smallscale renewal of existing infrastructure, NWP requires capital funding to support major infrastructure development, renewal, and deferred maintenance. The end of useful life and aging infrastructure on our Fairview campus is of particular concern over the next ten years.
NWP’s Facilities Plan incorporates the polytechnic’s three-year Capital Investment Plan, which was presented to the Board of Governors in March 2024 and subsequently approved.
It is important to note that the Capital Investment Plan Summary provided below includes the following assumptions:
• Capital Maintenance & Renewal (CMR) funding will support, where permitted, the modernization of existing spaces. Board reserves will support projects where CMR funding is not permitted or not adequate.
• To ensure that reserves are not depleted and investment income of approximately $1 million per year is still earned in future periods, the annual budget will plan to transfer any annual surplus funds into its restricted net assets.
• If this is not feasible the three-year capital plan timeline will need to be extended into future periods; alternatively, projects in the threeyear plan will need to be significantly altered or cancelled.
THREE YEAR CAPITAL INVESTMENT PLAN SUMMARY (2024-2027)
RESEARCH, APPLIED RESEARCH, AND SCHOLARLY ACTIVITIES
NEW STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS FOR RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
The 2023/24 year saw significant activity by NWP researchers and growth in NWP’s Office of Applied Research and Innovation. The focus for this period was two-fold:
1. Increasing support for student and faculty research.
2. Increasing the visibility of research taking place at NWP.
These objectives have been achieved through the generation of new funding for research and establishment of a new Applied Research Advisory Committee designed to support NWP research.
We have worked to increase external visibility by enhancing the Applied Research and Innovation web presence and creating multiple avenues for people to connect for partnership development and awareness. These channels include: an online intake form, hosting community events, attending strategic meetings with post-secondary institutions, and participating in national and international events focused on research and development within small and medium enterprises.
THE NATIONAL BEE DIAGNOSTIC CENTRE
The National Bee Diagnostic Centre (NBDC) has once again been recognized for its exemplary contributions to applied research, welcoming additional Technology Access Centre (TAC) funding in 2023/24.
As one of only 64 TACs in Canada, the NBDC is the only facility dedicated to bee and pollinator research and diagnostics in Canada. The NBDC continues to grow applied research in honeybee health, honey, and pollinator products. Recent expansion initiatives include the incorporation of new laboratory equipment that will facilitate
precision testing across a wider range of molecules. This will allow increased capacity to test for honey adulteration and new property detections in honey.
Applied research projects at the NBDC include:
• The study of foulbrood in Canadian apiaries; Harnessing the power of pollen DNA metabarcoding to enhance pollinator health and honey value in cropping landscapes, and
• Northern Regenerative Agricultural Systems: Enhancing production, resilience, and ecosystem health in northern regenerative agricultural systems.
The NBDC continues to create opportunities for student involvement in applied research activities. During the 2023/24 period, the NBDC hired 13 students and recent graduates, from high school to graduate studies, in biology, biochemistry, entomology, computer science, arts, and business.
The NWP research facility that houses the NBDC has also evolved with the creation of the Agriculture and Biosciences Applied Research Centre in July 2023. The addition of this new research centre has enabled the expansion of testing to soil and food products to complement existing services at the NBDC. These research developments will serve additional local producers and will continue to benefit bee health and honey research at NBDC.
The NBDC continues to offer fee-for-services related to beekeeping and pollination industries. The NWP research facility was the first comprehensive laboratory in Canada to provide a full array of diagnostic services for honeybee and native bee pests, pathogens, and parasites. It continues to develop and offer new services highly relevant to the beekeeping and pollination industries. During the 2023/24 period, tests for detection of antimicrobial and pesticides resistance were developed and added to NWP’s growing array of services. The NBDC is committed to providing innovative services that support a healthy, sustainable, and profitable apiculture in Canada.
Expansion of activities and capacities at the National Bee Diagnostic Centre have been made possible by federal funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and PrairiesCan. Funding is also provided by industry partners and service agreements.
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
Recognizing the important role of applied research in the polytechnic setting, NWP is continuing to develop opportunities for industry partnerships, problem-solving, and innovation-enabling skills.
In July 2023, the Agriculture and Biosciences Applied Research Centre was established at NWP. This centre, which expands, agriculture research and testing in the Peace Region, is developing food testing capacities to support local and national producers. Lead researcher, Dr. Kouadio Bedie, holds a PhD in Food Science and Technology and has contributed to the research program at the NBDC for several years.
In March 2024, The Office of Applied Research and Innovation launched the Centre for Community Enhancement and Social Innovation, led by Dr. Connie Korpan, a Psychology Instructor in the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences at NWP. This research centre is dedicated to social innovation research serving the Grande Prairie community and builds upon Dr. Korpan’s previous community-based research projects. We are excited about the partnerships and community-engaged research under development through this new research focus.
NWP’s Office of Applied Research and Innovation also launched two funding programs to support research at NWP. Two faculty projects were supported through the Office of Applied Research and Innovation’s inaugural Faculty Innovation Fund. The two recipients were:
• Laura Marotta, a Visual Arts Instructor at NWP for her project with Dr. Brian Redmond: “From Flat to Form: Nets for Undulating Spiky Forms.” The product of this Innovation Fund supported work was selected to be part of the Bridges Virginia, 2024 art exhibition.
• Dr. Alexander Villafranca (with co-investigators Alison Forest and Sherry Willett), for their project, “The Effect of Institutional Culture and Personality on Responses to Disruptive Intraoperative Behaviour.”
Student research was also supported through the new Student Research Assistant Program. It its first year, the program provided research assistantship opportunities for four NWP students in nursing, biology, anthropology, and kinesiology. Students participated in research design, data input, and literature reviews on assigned projects.
The Office of Applied Research and Innovation also launched a research workshop series addressing topics that included an introduction to research data management, research grants, and research integrity. All workshops were well attended by staff, faculty, and students.
Reflecting the polytechnic mandate and applied research goals, new partnerships have been created with community partners. In November 2023, NWP hosted Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) for RDAR on the Road: North Edition, giving researchers, funders, and stakeholders a chance to gather in conversation. The Office of Applied Research and Innovation was invited to join the Prairie Polytechnics Innovation Network Accelerating Commercialization for Local Ecosystems (P2INACLE), a network of prairie polytechnics advancing regional innovation developments.
SCHOLARLY ACTIVITIES
NWP staff and faculty are advancing their knowledge and sharing outcomes with the broader learning community. Be it through presentations, publications, or other avenues for innovation, NWP is having an impact. An example is found in NWP’s School of Business where instructors teaching 3rd and 4th year courses in the Bachelor of Business Administration degree program engaged in scholarly research on topics of interest including:
• business students’ attendance rates,
• flexible work arrangements, and
• gender pay gap.
PRESENTATIONS
Willett, T.S.L. & Forest, A. (March 6 & 8, 2024). Researching Collaborative Practice: Disruptive Behaviour in the Operating Room. Oral presentation for NS 3110: Quantitative research week. Grande Prairie, AB.
Van Tassell, T., King J. & Moodie, S. (April 29 & 30, 2024). Do Nursing Students Who Practice Self-care Activities Experience Fewer Feelings of Anxiety and Stress? Oral Presentation at UofA Nursing Faculty PD Days. Edmonton, AB.
Reeme, J., Walker, N. & Van Tassell, T. (May 8, 2024). SIMulate to Innovate. Oral Presentation at NWP Nursing Department Spring PD Days. Grande Prairie, AB.
Reeme, J., Walker, N. & Van Tassell, T. (May 8, 2024). Collaborative Quest: Building Teams Through Simulation Adventure. Oral presentation at NWP Nursing Department Spring PD Days. Grande Prairie, AB
Reeme, J. & Walker, N. (May 9, 2024). Crafting Case Studies with Technology. Oral presentation at NWP Nursing Department Spring PD Days. Grande Prairie, AB
Van Tassell, T, King J, and Moodie, S. (May 13 & 14 2024). Do Nursing Students Who Practice Self-care Activities Experience Fewer Feelings of Anxiety and Stress? Oral presentation at the ACIFA conference. Jasper, AB.
PUBLICATIONS
King, T. (2023). Who me? A hermeneutic dip into imposter phenomenon. Journal of Applied Hermaneutics, 2023. DOI: 10.11575/jah.v2023i2023.77162
Willett, T.S.L., Honan, D., Wills, A. & Younas, A. (2023). Spiritual care in undergraduate nursing education: an integrative review. Nurse Educ. 2023;XX(X):1-7. doi:10.1097/NNE.0000000000001576
Villafranca, A. Fast, I. Turick, M. & Jacobsohn, E. (2023). Clinician responses to disruptive intraoperative behaviour: patterns and norms identified from a multinational survey. Canadian Journal of Anesthesia, 71:490-502. DOI: 10.1007/ s12630-023-02670-5
OTHER
Willett, T.S.L. Peer Reviewer for Canadian Journal for the
Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (2 articles reviewed).
Stone, M. Peer Reviewer for Canadian Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (4 articles reviewed).
ONGOING SCHOLARSHIP
Evans, T. Development of a virtual simulation recognizing indigenous health care. Research paper in development stage from COIL project.
Evans, T., VanTassell, T., Jacobson, J. Use of Digital Educational Technologies to Deliver Indigenous Health. Scoping review in progress.
Forest, A., Willett, T.S.L. (with Alex Villafranca). The effect of institutional culture and personality factors on clinician responses to disruptive intraoperative behavior. Ethics approved. At data collection stage.
Honan, D., Van Tassell, T., King, J., Moodie, S., Reeme, J., Forest, A & Willett, T.L.S. Do Nursing Students Who Practice Self-care Activities Experience Fewer Feelings of Anxiety and Stress? Data collected and processed; oral presentations done (see above in completed section). Manuscript for publication in progress.
Forest, A., Rawluk, L., Moodie, S., Willett, T.S.L., King, J., Walker, D. Virtues Project: Integration within undergraduate nursing curriculum. Ethics approved. Integration rolled out in NS 2005. Data collected. Currently undergoing data analysis.
REGIONAL STEWARDSHIP, FOUNDATIONAL LEARNING, AND UNDERREPRESENTED LEARNERS
Northwestern Polytechnic is invested in strengthening the communities we serve. Working together we are addressing local needs and priorities with meaningful contributions.
REGIONAL STEWARDSHIP AND SUPPORT
• Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) stepped up to support Grande Prairie Catholic School Division (GPCSD) who were faced with accommodation challenges for the 2023/24 period. Fairview campus welcomed relocated classes from St. Thomas More (STM) Catholic School which included nearly 200 kindergarten to grade 12 students. The solution involved transitioning the Gymnasium, as well as Fairview Administration, Library, and Carpentry buildings into a temporary learning hub while STM completed renovations and deep cleaning.
IMMERSING OUR LEARNERS
• NWP nursing students are regularly integrated in the community during the clinical practicum placements where they work with clients from all walks of life and ages. Opportunities for interaction in the hospital setting as well as various rural and community settings provides NWP nursing and health care aide students with multiple opportunities to develop relationships with future employers, immerse themselves in hands on learning, and create opportunities for retention of healthcare workers in the Peace Region.
• Nurs 425 Leadership Students are placed in leadership roles throughout the north zone. In this mentored role, nursing students have been able to fully embrace leadership responsibilities such
as accreditation, quality assurance, recruiting, education initiatives, policy development, and auditing. While the nurse leaders have been impressed with this clinical course leadership initiative, the students have benefitted with increased confidence, transformational leadership role practice, and the ability to work and build relationships with community partners. In the final weeks of the course, students develop and present poster presentations to showcase, share, and discuss their learning with their peers, faculty, local nurse leaders, and unit managers at a poster presentation platform event. Notable placements include:
• International Paper
• Alberta Health Services education & leadership (our first time ever having 2 students in High Level for this placement,
• Northwestern Polytechnic Office of Applied Research
• Northwestern Polytechnic Executive Members
• Horse Lake Health Fair to provide screening to the community
• Indigenous Health in Canada instructor, Alise Rombs, is working with Indigenous community members to provide exceptional learning opportunities for students. This resulted in the creation of a medicine wheel by nursing students in collaboration with Indigenous community members.
• Faculty from the BScN program developed an online course for Internationally Educated Nurses to transition to practice in Canada.
• NWP participated and promoted polytechnic career and training opportunities at the Bonnett’s Youth Employment Expo for regional Junior/ Senior High Schools.
• Hosted Northwest Regional Skills Alberta Competition April 18-19, 2024, on Fairview Campus. Competitors and visitors from all over Northwest Region enjoyed the event.
• Participated in Provincial Skills Alberta Competition and hosted Try-Trade Booth for visitors to learn about Trades. School of Trades
Instructors also participated as coaches for postsecondary competitors in Welding, Carpentry, Heavy Duty Mechanics, and Pipe Trades.
• NWP hosted the Alberta Deans of Business Case Competition on the Grande Prairie Campus. 12 post-secondary institutions across Alberta brought their team to analyze a real-work business case, Nipiy Industries, and present their recommendations to a panel of judges over a series of three days. The School of Business partnered with the Philip J. Curry Dinosaur Museum to present a Dinosaur themed gala, which included Emily Bamforth, curator of the Museum, as a guest speaker at the welcome gala. The event occurred from March 14-16th, 2024 and NWP’s business students won first place in the competition.
• The Business Administration and Office Administration students collaborated to host the annual NWP Business Conference on March 19th, 2024, and opened ticket sales to the public. The theme for this year’s conference was Business 360° – Embracing Inclusion, Igniting Innovation, with an NWP alumni, Sarena Nasalski as the keynote speaker for the event. The Business Conference allows students the opportunity to connect with community members, collaborate with different departments and students, experience planning an event from start to finish, etc.
• NWP’s Business Administration Department in partnership with CPA Alberta hosted a Tax Clinic for the 2023 Tax Season. CPA Alberta’s Tax Preparation program brings together Community Partners and CPA volunteers from across the province to assist low-income Albertans in completing their personal tax returns free of charge. NWP’s Accounting students helped eligible students file their tax returns, with assistance from CPA volunteers The experience benefited the student community while providing future accountants with an opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-life setting.
• Fourth-year TEN students participated in a two day ‘field trip’ from October 18-19th to 12 schools in 10 communities in Northern Alberta, specifically the Peace River region, to gain additional field experience in schools and teaching in northern and rural settings.
LEVERAGING PARTNERSHIPS
• NWP advanced discussions with Rupertsland Institute to offer combined Con-Ed and Apprenticeship training for the Metis students in the rural areas on campus.
• Commenced dialogue with the (CAF 3E) Education-Experience-Equivalency Consultation Team within the Department of National Defence on the possibility of finding alignment between the NWP and HET programming to support CAF training requirement needs.
• Green Certificate Training growth increased Registrations by 27%. NWP will receive a 5% increase in overall value of 2024/25 contract to facilitate this growth.
• School of Skilled Trades FV Instructors supported the Women Building Futures program Feb-April 2024 on GP Campus. NWP instructors delivered Journey to Trades training to a cohort of women on GP Campus.
• NWP offered Women of Steel 15-week PreEmployment Welding Course (Spring 2023) and Mind over Metal Camps have been planned for Summer 2024. Both programs are funded in partnerships with CWB.
• Second-year Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) students hosted a fundraiser for the ELCC Spring Nursery program. The event raised funds for Spring Nursery supplies, equipment, student incentives, etc.
• Contracts with Agnico Mines and Baffinland Mine for Apprenticeship training for various trades. Apprentices from remote communities are offered support to be successful in their training while away from home and family.
• NWP’s ongoing partnership with Spartan Controls enables delivery and development of all four levels of Instrumentation training.
• NWP continues to partner with the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce, the City of Grande Prairie, the County of Grande Prairie, the MD of Greenview, and Alberta Labour and Immigration on The Regional Workforce Development Strategic Action Plan to address labour market needs, seek out opportunities to focus efforts on the most productive ways to achieve sustainable economic growth and prosperity within the region.
• The Education department has increased offerings in courses with dual credit in partnership with local school divisions, specifically, Peace Wapiti School Division, as an initiative for Indigenous students to take Education courses while in high school.
PROVIDING LIFE-LONG LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
• Continuing Education registered 94 learners during the 2023-24 period.
• The department of Continuing Education has launched new micro-credentials in Animal Health Care Aide, Electric Vehicle Maintenance, Indigenous Health and Mental Wellness, Medical Office Administrator, Master Electrician, Bovine Ultrasound, Warehousing and Materials Handling, and Remotely Piloted Aircraft to accommodate community demand.
• Continuing Education is partnering with Western Cree Tribal Council to create custom programming contracts for Indigenous learners.
• Continuing Education received a donation of a truck and trailer from industry partners that will further boost department training capacity.
• Continuing Education is working to develop an EMR program pending approval by Alberta College of Paramedics.
• NWP continues to offer B-Pressure testing on both campuses thanks to productive partnership with Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA).
• Through continued relationship with the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) NWP was able to make a new Level One Inspector Course available to students.
FOUNDATIONAL LEARNERS
The Department of Academic Upgrading is an integral polytechnic programming component for northwestern Alberta.
The provision of foundational learning opportunities for adult learners not only creates pathways to post-secondary education programming, it also unlocks new career possibilities.
Academic Upgrading at NWP ensures students can complete necessary high school prerequisite courses for apprenticeships, certificates, diplomas, and degree programs.
• The Academic Upgrading department is working to build an Indigenous Pathways Program for students that will ladder into the first year of other NWP credential programs to build Indigenous enrolment and reduce barriers from current admission requirements. A Subject Matter Expert has been hired to design the courses and curriculum for the program. Each pathway will be 1-year in length and will qualify for FLAP funding which includes tuition, housing, etc.
SUPPORTING UNDERREPRESENTED LEARNERS
NWP is committed to supporting students who may face challenges participating and completing their post-secondary goals.
FINANCIAL SUPPORTS
During the 2023/24 reporting period, a total of $275,490 in funding was disbursed to 288 students through awards, scholarships, and bursaries. A total of $290,400 in grants was disbursed to 198 students through scholarships provided by the Government of Alberta. This includes $112,000 awarded to 29 students (28 of which received 2, $2000 disbursements) for the Indigenous Careers Award.
INDIGENOUS EDUCATION
Northwestern Polytechnic is honoured to be one of eight post-secondaries throughout the province who have committed as signatories on the Indigenous Education Protocol.
We are actively working to address the needs of Indigenous learners and communities. With guidance from our Indigenous Advisory Council, On-Campus Friendship Centre, trusted Elders, and other valued community partners, we are actively working to address biases and create supportive environments that are safe, welcoming, equitable, and inclusive.
• The NWP On-Campus Friendship Centre is a partnership between NWP and the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre. It was created to support a smooth transition for students entering our community to become students of the Polytechnic. The On-Campus Friendship Centre is open to all students and provides a warm, welcoming environment for students to connect with each other, meet faculty and staff, and seek out existing community supports to help adjust to post-secondary life and/or life in a new city. Students have the opportunity to attend various gatherings, enjoy meals together, and partake in presentations from internal sources and outside agencies.
• An Indigenous Initiative’s Advisor has been hired to develop an Indigenous Action Plan for the institution. This contract staff member will engage with key collaborators to gain insight into how NWP can improve supports for Indigenous students, identify strategies and action items to increase the number of Indigenous students at NWP, review and provide recommendations on events and activities that are held on campus to support Indigenous students, and identify opportunities to build partnerships and beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities.
• In September 2023, Indigenous Services hosted a Welcome Tea Dance for students which was well received and well attended. In April 2023, a Year End Student Celebration was hosted by the Circle of Indigenous Students to celebrate and honour the successes of Indigenous students.
• An Elder’s Circle has been created so that NWP can engage with local Elders and Knowledge Keepers to provide support for NWP students, staff, and faculty. This is an ongoing project led by NWP Elder Theresa Gladue.
• A subject matter expert has been hired to develop an Indigenous Admissions Pathway program at NWP. The purpose of this one-year program is to provide an alternative route to the traditional high school requirements and prepare Indigenous students for admission into various NWP post-secondary programs, including Business, Health, Fine Arts, and Education. Admission to post-secondary programs can be a barrier for Indigenous students and the pathways program will contribute to growing Indigenous representation in the work force.
• As part of Strategic Enrolment Management efforts, NWP is exploring new Indigenous program and course development, facilitated by Indigenous community consultation.
CAMPUS FREE SPEECH
Northwestern Polytechnic’s policy landscape is continuing to evolve.
FREE SPEECH POLICY INFORMATION
During the 2023/24 period, there were no changes to free speech policy.
NWP currently has a Freedom of Expression policy as well as a policy for Academic Freedom. All institutional policies may be at found at NWP.me/Policies.
EVENT BOOKING
NWP’s Event Services department supports staff, faculty, students and the community with space booking and security requirements. All faculty, staff, and students, can book instructional space free of charge for internal meetings, events, networking.
CANCELLED EVENTS
Northwestern Polytechnic did not cancel any events for reason srelated to free speech during the reporting period.
FREE SPEECH RELATED COMPLAINTS
Northwestern Polytechnic did not receive any complaints related to free speech during the reporting period.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENTS
Over the past year, Northwestern Polytechnic’s Information Technology department has made significant strides in enhancing our IT infrastructure and services. Our efforts have been focused on four key areas: Process Optimization, Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Upgrades, and Wireless Expansion.
PROCESS OPTIMIZATION
We have begun the implementation of an automation system for user account control to streamline the process of account creation, modification, and deletion. The goal is to expand the system to encompass all roles at the institution providing visibility into access levels for accounts and making the transition between roles faster and simpler. This automation will reduce manual errors, increase efficiency, and provided a seamless experience for faculty and staff.
CYBERSECURITY
In response to the growing threats in the digital space, we are developing a comprehensive Cybersecurity Incident Plan. This plan outlines clear
procedures for incident detection, response, and recovery, ensuring that we are prepared to swiftly address any security breaches. This will enhance the institution’s positioning as we begin to implement a comprehensive cybersecurity playbook.
INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES
Our commitment to reliability and data integrity led to a significant upgrade of our backup capacity and the expansion of the secondary data center. These upgrades have bolstered our data recovery capabilities and have ensured continuity of services in the event of any unforeseen incidents.
WIRELESS EXPANSION
Understanding the need for fast and accessible internet, we have expanded our wireless coverage to include Grande Prairie residences. This expansion has provided our students with improved internet access and the flexibility to access resources from the comfort of their homes.
The Information Technology department at Northwestern Polytechnic is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art IT services that support the institution’s strategic goals. There are many other initiatives in progress or in the pipeline that will build on the current services for future innovation and growth.
