The Edge 2024

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• Agriculture Technologies

President’s Message

Most of us have had the opportunity to be part of something. Whether it’s a cherished friend group, competitive team, professional engagement, or other collective activity, the experience of coming together and connecting to something bigger than ourselves is often quite beneficial.

I have been fortunate to be involved in a variety of communities. Growing up in Fairview, I experienced the peaceful familiarity of a tight knit town. I played many team sports, and wore my Wolves basketball jersey with great pride during my undergrad. When I joined the workforce - first as a nurse in a busy Emergency Department, and later as an instructor on campus - I learned the value of problem-solving, collaboration, and how different perspectives can enhance results. The

experience of being a contributor, in various settings, and with different people by my side, has shaped who I am today and where I hope to lead our polytechnic.

Northwestern Polytechnic is in the midst of a remarkable transformation. With a new polytechnic mandate, a growing student body, and expanded programming, we have been simultaneously breaking new ground and exploring collective potential. We are striving for meaningful impact every day, in every way possible.

As committed collaborators, our goal isn’t just to partner with the community, it is to truly be a part of the community. This means going above and beyond a traditional exchange of education and training, and living our values of connection, innovation, and responsiveness. In fact, NWP has a unique opportunity to be a positive force in the social, economic, and cultural spheres that impact (and ideally, enhance) our day-to-day lives, and from what I can tell, we have only just begun to scratch the surface.

As we move forward, NWP is committed to building meaningful relationships and enriching our communities. Along with tremendous potential, Northern Alberta is teeming with goodwill. Generosity and service have always underscored NWP’s signature fundraising events like the Golf Classic and President’s Ball, but as I continue to meet with our local, regional, and provincial partners, I am awed by the enduring support and energy for collaborative achievement.

In these pages, you will find inspiring stories about our valued partners and alumni community who exemplify this essential dynamic of learning, growing, succeeding, and giving back.

It is not lost on me that we could not do what we do, without those who support us so generously and welcome us with open arms. That’s why the theme of this issue - Community Matters - is really so fitting. I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed bringing it all together.

Warmly,

A Legacy of Giving

Acknowledging a generous donation made by Jarvis Dawson of JDA Oilfield Hauling & Cranes is a bit like pointing out the tip of an iceberg. When you dive a little deeper, you realize that not only does the Dawson family have a long history with our institution, but that they’ve been actively contributing to the Grande Prairie community for over 50 years.

The family’s ongoing legacy began when Leo Dawson and his wife Martha moved here from Medicine Hat in 1969. Leo had accepted the chairmanship of the Business Administration program at what was then Grande Prairie Junior College. He stayed with the institution for the remainder of his career, earning the respect of his students and coworkers alike. In fact, you may even be able to spot his picture on the wall in the Business Administration wing.

With Leo now in his late nineties, there are many fond memories shared and treasured. Martha recalls how much they both liked Grande Prairie from day one. Jarvis, the third of their four children, also has great memories of those early days, including taking piano lessons at the nunnery which

was co-located with the Junior College, and riding bikes into town to buy jujubes in Coachman Village. In addition to working within education, Leo at the College and Martha within the Catholic school system, the Dawson family raised cattle on their farm at the edge of town and volunteered in many different capacities.

Jarvis may not have followed his parents down the education path, “I thought I’d learned enough by Grade 10,” he says with a laugh, but he has certainly made his own mark on the community and within Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) as well.

Back in the 1980s, while finishing his mechanic apprenticeship, Jarvis took a leap of faith and became a first-time business owner when he bought a Petro-Canada gas station. As he tells it, “I ran that for about two years, and business wasn’t going so well, so it wasn’t a hard sell when Husky approached me to take over a more lucrative station on the west end.”

Not one to let an opportunity pass, he started capitalizing on his small fleet of tow trucks and one-tons to provide

hot-shot services to the oilfield. From there, things really took off. In 1995, he opened a stand-alone auto repair shop on 116th Street, at which time he purchased his first semi-truck. Fast forward thirty years, and JDA currently runs about 250 pieces of equipment, including pickers, bed trucks, cranes, winch tractors, heavy haul trailers, and more. The bulk of the work still comes from the oilfield, but they do support other industrial operations, as well as doing some jobs for the construction industry.

JDA has put a number of aspiring truckers through the Mandatory Entry

Level Training (MELT) program at NWP. Given the breadth of the equipment in their fleet, they can hire employees who don’t yet have their Class 1 licenses and gauge their enthusiasm and aptitude for the job. “We get these young folks in here, and if after a year, they’ve proven themselves to be good workers who are interested in driving, we’ll invest in them and put them through the MELT program,” explains Jarvis.

It was this scenario that led to the NWP program having a JDA truck as part of their instructional fleet. Two of Jarvis’ employees had completed the

MELT program and were scheduled to take their Class 1 test when the school called with some bad news. One of the available trucks was out of commission, and the tests would have to be postponed. Jarvis happened to have a truck available and saved the day by offering to loan the truck to the school. This generous support continued for more than a year.

Given that it was originally a loan, the truck remained registered to JDA, which led to some awkward phone calls. “Understandably, we’d get calls about the driving sometimes, and I’d find myself explaining the situation and asking them to cut this student driver a break,” Jarvis remembers. Between having to consider their carrier profile and insurance, and needing that specific truck back in rotation, Jarvis decided to purchase and gift a truck that the school could have as a permanent piece in their fleet.

Not one to romanticize things, Jarvis says he hadn’t considered how the donation brought his family’s story full circle by supporting the institution that had served as a catalyst for lifelong connections, memories, and achievements. Martha and Leo were very pleased about it, but not at all surprised. As Martha put it, “Jarvis has contributed to many organizations. He was raised here, and he enjoys and appreciates this community as much as we do.”

Between Leo and Martha’s years of service and contribution to GPRC, St. Paul United Church, Grande Prairie Live Theatre, and the Grande Prairie Music Society, and Jarvis’ support of NWP and other community venues like the JDA Roadway, we hope the Dawson family, in turn, feels the learning community’s immense appreciation for them.

BRIDGING Business and Indigenous Wisdom

Last fall, Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) carved out new ground, adding a fouryear Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree to its growing list of in-demand programs. Supported by learning community members, business advocates, and industry leaders from across the region, the entirely local offering was a first for the institution.

Along with all BBA courses being able to be completed in their entirety at the Grande Prairie campus, the new degree has been integral in demonstrating the value of partnership and interdisciplinary learning. In fact, business has never been better in the Peace Region thanks to distinctive program components like the Rural, Northern, and Indigenous Business Analysis course taught by Darlene Horseman and Mandy Pollock.

This popular offering pairs contemporary business acumen with Indigenous perspectives and knowledge. Through this lens, students can explore various topics related to economic and community development that support the goals of Truth and Reconciliation.

“The course objective is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous governance systems and their evolution in response to Eurocentric business models,” explains Horseman.

“It’s more about building empathy, understanding, and connections with Indigenous communities.”

The course also offers practical insights into the world of Indigenous entrepreneurship. “I bring in Indigenous business owners from Grande Prairie, some of whom are my former students. They share their success stories, their struggles, and the unique challenges they face, such as racism and discrimination,” she adds.

These sessions are incredibly well received. Students benefit from an understanding of the realities of starting and running a business as an Indigenous person, as well as a firsthand look at the intricacies of local operations.

“Our students are taken on facility tours to gain a firsthand understanding of Indigenous businesses. They also participate in a Land Based Learning component, which focuses on how Indigenous people

interact with the land. It’s an important aspect of Indigenous business.”

The business half of the equation, instructor Mandy Pollock, is delighted with the innovative approach to teaching and learning: “We’re not just lecturing; we’re immersing students in real-world scenarios. They work in groups, interacting with rural or Indigenous businesses in the area, and find solutions to real problems these businesses are facing.”

Recognizing that storytelling is one of the great foundations of Indigenous knowledge transfer, Horseman often shares her unique insights and experiences with students in the class.

“Initially, some students found this unusual as they were unaccustomed

to instructors sharing their personal journeys. However, as the course progressed, they understood the purpose of these stories – to build a connection, foster empathy, and help them better understand Indigenous communities.”

A departure from tradition, the class veers away from textbook learning. Instead, it features open educational resources and a more practical approach to shared understanding.

“This course is holistic. There’s no exam. It’s based on participation, case studies, and a major project where students work with a business to solve an issue they’re facing,” explains Pollock.

It is a business strategy that will deliver an impactful return on investment for individuals and communities alike.

“We’re in northern Alberta, so understanding and working with Indigenous communities is a huge part of our community,” adds Pollock. “Our students will be better equipped to navigate the business landscape in our region by understanding the challenges, history, and cultural etiquette.”

The Rural, Northern, and Indigenous Business Analysis course at NWP is helping to build capital in the Peace Region and beyond. Alongside practical business skills and competencies, students discover the importance of understanding and connection.

Meet Melly Pack, a lifelong resident of the Peace Country, student at Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) and President of the Students’ Association. Despite dropping out of high school and being told she would never achieve much, Melly has carved out an impressive journey in academia and leadership.

In 2002, Melly began her career as a roughneck on service rigs. She diligently worked her way up to derrickhand and then to driller. However, it was her passion for travel that eventually led her away from the oilfield and on to a new adventure in 2006. Six months after a transformative scuba diving experience in Mexico, Melly found herself on another coast, completing an open water course in Vietnam.

She fell head over heels for scuba diving, travel, and cultural experiences, prompting her to become a Professional Association of Diving Instructor (PADI). For a decade, she soaked in the beach and the undersea world, moving to Malaysia to become a divemaster, working with Scuba Junkie, and eventually becoming a dive shop manager. Despite the exhilaration of her diving career, Melly felt herself again being drawn in a different direction.

A post-secondary journey with NWP was the next thing on the itinerary and in 2024, Melly

proudly walked across the convocation stage with a Business Administration Diploma in hand. It was yet another milestone for the ambitious achiever, but certainly not the last stop. She is now gearing up to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in the coming year and plans to major in Human Resources.

Along with her academic pursuits, Melly has made commendable contributions to NWP’s Students’ Association. She started off as VP Internal in 2022, and ran for President the following year. She is now serving her second term and is eager to further her contributions to the learning community.

“I want the students of NWP to know that they hold my ear, and I will always make sure that their voice goes where it needs to go,” Melly shares. Her role with the Students’ Association enables her to advocate for student engagement, making a real difference in their lives.

Dedicated to making NWP a better place, Melly addresses the diverse needs of students across campus,

ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.

Melly’s story serves as an inspiration that it is never too late to pursue your dreams. “I never thought of myself as a good student when I decided to try school again,” she adds. “When I walked through the doors at NWP, I was scared. What I found here is a supportive learning environment that wants to see me succeed. I could not have picked a better institution for my postsecondary journey.”

Melly’s adventures are ongoing, with no signs of slowing down. “I always joke that I want to take over the world. Right now, I have a real love for event planning. However, there is this little part of me that wants to open a little accommodation and bar on a tropical beach somewhere. Good thing I have a couple of years still to decide!”

Although some things may still be up in the air, Melly’s commitment to continuous learning alongside a thriving Wolfpack is abundantly clear.

Melly Pack

Be Part of a Powerful Future.

There are several avenues to support NWP’s new Power Engineering and Instrumentation facility. Whether it is through active involvement in program inception and development phases, or pursuing naming rights, corporate donations, or philanthropic giving, your support is integral to our learning community’s success.

“Just do it. If you see an opportunity that you think could be good, just apply. You never know what could happen.”

Galateya Medcalfe, a determined and adventurous student at Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), is setting her sights far beyond the campus grounds.

Chosen for an eight-week internship through the Shastri Alberta Students in India (SASI) program, this dedicated Bachelor of Business Administration student is set to immerse herself in the vibrant culture and bustling business world of India.

SASI provides internship opportunities to post-secondary students from Alberta within Indian institutions. SASI is a significant internship that offers Alberta students an experience that fosters academic, personal, and professional growth.

Galateya has been placed at Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT) Jaipur to work on the project “Exploring the Cultural Tapestry of India: An Immersive Journey.”

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity; it makes me think back to where I was a year ago, and it’s just crazy that here I am now, almost a year later, about to embark on this internship,” Galateya shares. This internship is a unique initiative designed to foster international understanding and collaboration.

“I’m most excited about learning and doing really interesting things, immersing myself in the culture,” she says.

The internship will not only introduce Galateya to a new culture but also offer her a chance to apply her academic knowledge in a realworld setting. She will work 15 to 25 hours a week, engaging with locals

and gaining first-hand experience of the country’s culture. It’s a venture she’s excited to meet head-on.

A small-town girl from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Galateya has always been driven by her curiosity and a desire to broaden her horizons. She recounts her journey from being a new student to being selected for this international internship.

“Just a year ago, I was in a career advisor’s office, uncertain where I would end up,” she recalls. “A year later, I completed the first year of my degree program and was selected for this internship.”

Initially believing she was meant to be a childcare provider, Galateya worked in a daycare but eventually realized it wasn’t a career path that fulfilled her. Because she’d wanted to pursue a career in Early Childhood education for so long, to change course was overwhelming and scary. She found herself at a crossroads. After meeting with an advisor, she finally decided that studying Business would be the best fit for her.

Galateya has an intuitive understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity in today’s globalized world. “I believe this experience will allow me to work more effectively with diverse teams in the future,” she explains.

The internship is a significant commitment, requiring Galateya to leave her familiar surroundings for eight weeks. Despite any anticipated homesickness, she views this as an essential step in her personal and professional growth. “I think my biggest struggle is going to be missing my family. I’ve never been away for that long without my family, but this is an incredible opportunity. I need to do it,” she states.

Galateya’s excitement about the internship is palpable, even as she acknowledges the challenges ahead. “I have never travelled to India before, so I am excited about what I will experience,” she confesses. “Once I am there, I will be working to learn about the culture and conducting a research project.”

Looking ahead, Galateya is eager to return with valuable insights and experiences she can share with her peers, friends, and family upon her return. “I think my biggest takeaway will be empathy,” she says. “Understanding a different culture first-hand is going to be an eyeopener.”

She believes this internship will significantly influence her future career, providing her with invaluable skills and experiences. “One day in my career, I’ll work with and collaborate with people from different demographics. This will help me relate so much better, especially if I decide to go into human resources,” she says.

As she prepares for her journey, Galateya has words of encouragement for other students considering similar opportunities. “Just do it. If you see an opportunity that you think could be good, just apply. You never know what could happen.”

With a spirit of adventure and a heart full of determination, Galateya Medcalfe is ready to embark on her journey to India. She’s not just crossing borders; she’s crossing boundaries and breaking barriers, proving to herself and others that with courage and resilience, the world is truly at your fingertips.

In a world often defined by taking the easy way, there are those who refuse to settle, who thrive in the face of uncertainty, and who are willing to make unconventional choices that lead to unexpected places. Alex Zinman, the 2023-2024 Fairview Campus Valedictorian, is one of those people.

Alex grew up in and around Toronto and upon finishing high school as a self-described daydreamer with less-than-inspiring grades, planned to pursue a career as an artist. They first attended Sheridan College for illustration but quickly realized that illustration wasn’t the right fit.

Still drawn to a life of creativity, Alex enrolled in the Academy of Realist Art (ARA) in Toronto, studying old master-style drawing and painting. Despite investing more than two years at the ARA, which included a daily four-hour round trip bike commute, and having achieved success in their artistic efforts, Alex couldn’t see finding fulfilment and joy continuing down this path either.

Enter the unconventional as Alex decided that their next step would involve goats. Yes, goats. They had once worked on a goat farm and had fond memories of working outside with the animals. Following that positive experience seemed as good a place to start as any other.

“It was really a spur-of-themoment thing, but one that effectively changed the course of my life,” Alex explains. They found a job on a little hobby farm in Stovall, Ontario, and it was there that Alex found the passion and sense of connection they’d been missing. “We had a vet tech occasionally come out to the farm to check on the animals, and I just fell in love with what they were doing.”

Despite hesitance about embarking on yet another post-secondary experience, Alex researched Veterinarian Technician opportunities, found and was accepted to NWP’s diploma program, and soon found themselves en route to Fairview, Alberta. To their surprise, they also soon found themselves performing at the top of their class. “I started doing really well, and it kind of shocked me,” Alex remembers. “It was so motivating and, having never before been competitive about my grades, I realized that I really wanted to keep it going.”

“Never do yourself the disservice of underestimating yourself. Today, we are tradespeople, and we are technicians, and that is something to be very proud of.”

Once Alex had hit their stride, it was all uphill from there. Not that they did it alone, mind you. In their valedictorian speech, Alex recognized the role that Northwestern Polytechnic instructors played in their success. “The teachers and faculty of NWP have invested hours of their time and untold patience to see us through. They couldn’t drag us out of bed in the morning, but they brought coffee and donuts to 8 a.m. lectures. They couldn’t make us ask for help, but they stayed after-hours with us if we were struggling. The staff care as much about our success as we do, sometimes even more.”

Graduating must feel significantly different to Alex this time around. They are currently exploring transfer programs, like the one available through the University of Lethbridge, where NWP diploma graduates can seamlessly transfer into a Post-Diploma Bachelor of Arts or

Post-Diploma Bachelor of Science (Agricultural Studies).

While there are many exciting pathways for furthering one’s education beyond a diploma, another message that Alex made loud and clear through their speech was how proud they believe all graduating students should be.

“There are people who underestimate the significance of our work,” Alex shares. “[But] we fix, we create, and we mend. Never do yourself the disservice of underestimating yourself. Today, we are tradespeople, and we are technicians, and that is something to be very proud of.”

Alex’s journey from dreamer to Valedictorian is undoubtedly one to be proud of and is an excellent reminder that the most rewarding paths in life aren’t always clearly marked but are always worth pursuing.

Peggy Johnson laughs as she thinks back to her time as an Animal Health (AHT) student 50 years ago. “The years go by so doggone fast,” she says with a smile. Closing her eyes, Peggy easily slips back to a time when she was, as she puts it, a “guinea pig” in a brand new kind of animal health education.

Before 1974, Western Canada had no certified program that trained people to properly assist veterinarians. Despite the vast ranchland and numerous large animals throughout the prairies, there was no school teaching people vital support skills like animal pharmacology, diagnostic imaging, and surgical assistance – the

kind of knowledge and training that would make someone invaluable in a veterinary clinic. And this was a problem because it meant veterinarians either had to train people themselves or work alone.

Recognizing this problem, the Fairview School of Agriculture and Home Economics launched Western Canada’s first AHT program that fall. But, despite filling a serious need, the program’s early days were marked by experimentation and uncertainty. There wasn’t yet a dedicated space on campus for AHT students, there were no other local programs to compare with or use as a guide for curriculum development, and career outcomes weren’t guaranteed –because the program was so new,

veterinarians at the time weren’t sure technologists were necessary.

Peggy was part of the very first class. Having grown up on a ranch, Peggy knew she wanted to work with animals and was drawn to the AHT program because it offered a quick path to a career in animal health. Reflecting on the first days of the program, Peggy remembers limited space and resources but that the college made up for that with ingenuity and community support.

“We didn’t have a dark room at the college yet so when we took our radiology classes, we went over to the local veterinary clinic,” Peggy says. “Most of our labs and lectures were in the animal science building, but

While Northwestern Polytechnic’s Animal Health Technology program celebrates 50 years of preparing highly soughtafter veterinary technologists, none of it would have been possible without some foresight and risk-taking five decades ago.

sometimes we had to go to the plant science building. I can still see the instructor, George Rutten, standing at the front of the classroom.”

Collaboration with local veterinarians turned out to be key to legitimizing the program. Peggy says that at the time veterinarians were hesitant to support animal health techs, but soon came to recognize the value of having a professional in their office with such a diverse skill set.

“A technologist is an x-ray technician. They’re a surgical assistant, they’re a lab assistant, they can do nutrition,” Peggy explains. “Basically, they do what a nurse and a lab tech and an x-ray tech and all those kinds of people do in a hospital. That’s one person in a veterinary clinic.”

After graduating, Peggy would go on to teach in the AHT program for 20 years. She says that the key to the program’s success is the handson learning it provides students, particularly with large animals.

“One of my first years that I was teaching, I remember showing the students how to put a stomach tube into a cow,” Peggy recalls. “One of the students was standing directly in front of me and the cow kind of gave a little cough and this poor girl was just covered in rumen juice within an eighth of a second.”

Peggy explained that it was the kind of unexpected experience that might not be noted in a textbook or classroom instruction, but still one that definitely happens in the field. “I remember we were all laughing about it, but it brought up a good point: you cannot learn the ins and outs of these techniques without actually doing them.”

Today, hands-on learning continues to be fundamental to the diploma program which only recently updated its name from Animal Health Technology to Veterinary Technology (VT).

Kristy Honing, the current VT program chair, points to the farm on the Fairview campus as an example of how NWP provides a unique learning experience because few other schools are able to provide students with immediate access to large animals.

“There’s always a handful of students entering the program who haven’t been around large animals,” Kristy says. “Coming to the farm and having those animals close by gives them a lot more familiarity, makes them more comfortable, and provides a lot of hands-on skill development that makes them better graduates.”

Even after 50 years, the program continues to grow and evolve; Kristy and her staff are currently revising its curriculum, in consultation with industry, to ensure graduates have the skills to meet industry needs. Hopefully they also find time to plan a celebration.

UNIVERSITY OF

LETHBRIDGE

PARTNERSHIP PAVES BROADER PATHWAYS FOR STUDENTS AT NWP’S FAIRVIEW CAMPUS

An agreement between Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) and the University of Lethbridge (U of L) gives students from NWP’s Fairview campus options to further their education.

The partnership, signed in Fall 2023, lets students in the Veterinary Technology program transfer into a Post-Diploma Bachelor of Arts or PostDiploma Bachelor of Science (Agricultural Studies) at the U of L.

“NWP is proud to work with partner universities on collaborative programming that supports students,” said Dr. Vanessa Sheane, NWP President and CEO. “This new agreement gives our VT graduates the option to build on their studies and gain a four-year degree qualification.”

Students looking to continue at the U of L must have a 2.5 grade point average or higher to transition into the degree track.

For students coming out of high school, it can feel like they only have two choices. Either they can choose to work towards an “office job” or go into the trades. Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) alumni Mitchell Best, a journeyman electrician and Manager of Electrical for CDN Controls, is a great example of how those two choices are not mutually exclusive and how a career in the trades can offer both flexibility and a wide variety of exciting opportunities and possibilities.

Mitchell was born and raised in Grande Prairie and graduated from St. Joseph Catholic High School in 2013. He’s quick to admit that he “never really had a set idea of what [he] wanted to do,” other than that he wanted to “work in the field.” He started in carpentry, then tried welding for a bit, but didn’t feel either of those avenues was the right fit. Things clicked when he moved into

electrical, and it was enough of a connection to pursue an Electrical Apprenticeship program through NWP.

Mitchell considers the chance to try out different lines of work to be one of the great benefits of entering the trades. “A nice thing about the trades is that you don’t have to commit right away. You’re not putting a big chunk of money down so you can try something out for a month, two months, six months, and if you don’t like it, you can just move on to something else.”

Electrical was the right choice for him and he has nothing but good things to say about his apprenticeship experience. “It was nice to come out of the field after eight or so months, having saved up a bit of money, and get to do some shorter days in school. And then, towards the end of school, you’re definitely ready to get back in the field.” He also appreciated the instant applicability of his education, saying, “Every year, you learn a little bit more, and then you go into the field and can apply that knowledge almost immediately.”

Speaking about his experience at NWP specifically, Mitchell shares that his favourite part of the program was “the hands-on learning and that the teachers were always accessible. There was always someone in the office able to answer questions.”

About halfway through his apprenticeship, Mitchell joined CDN Controls and found himself exactly where he had planned to be, working in the field on large construction projects. He often stayed in camps and learned the rigour of shift work. He remembers this as a positive experience, although he admits that it was likely a better fit for his life a few years ago than it would be now. He spent some time on CDN’s maintenance crew before being hired into a management position and heading into the office to experience things from the other side.

Despite Mitchell’s appreciation for the hands-on aspect of his trade, he’s happy in his role now and feels like it is an equally good fit despite it drawing on “a completely different skill set.”

He certainly appreciates having a consistent schedule, and though he admits that the interpersonal aspect of being a manager can be challenging, it’s a challenge he enjoys.

From a high schooler considering various paths, to a manager at one of the largest electrical companies in Western Canada, Mitchell’s decision to ‘go into the trades’ has resulted in a career that has grown and evolved along with him. He is proof positive that exploring the world of trades can present possibilities, unlock opportunities, and lead you down an unexpected but highly rewarding path.

...Mitchell’s decision to ‘go into the trades’ has resulted in a career that has grown and evolved along with him.

Awards Community Alumniand

Northwestern Polytechnic’s (NWP) annual Community and Alumni Awards recognize members of the community for contributions to excellence in education. These awards single out the institution and the region’s finest.

BOARD OF GOVERNORS DISTINGUISHED INNOVATION LEADERSHIP AWARD

The Distinguished Leadership Award recognizes the outstanding lifetime accomplishments of a community member who has made a significant impact because of their innovative service to society. The 2023 recipient was Eunice Friesen, who, as a successful business owner and leader, is ambitious, comfortable taking risks, and highly attuned to the market. Not only is she a vibrant community leader but also a warm and inviting individual who is committed to caregiving and passionate about creating inclusive spaces. In all respects, Eunice puts people first and is an inspiring example of how a positive attitude can drive innovative thinking.

ALUMNI ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD

The Alumni Entrepreneurship Award recognizes an innovative business, process, or product created by a NWP alumni or group of alumni. The program, process, or product will have significantly advanced their respective discipline through innovation and raised the profile of NWP. The 2023 recipient was Mariah Braun, a living embodiment of NWP’s current vision and goals. Whether it’s transforming individual interests into impactful skills and expertise, or an ambitious vision, Mariah has it. Mariah owns and operates M3M Marketing in Grande Prairie and has always been drawn to creative pursuits.

Eunice Friesen
Mariah Braun

INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD

Established in 2021, this award recognizes alumni whose outstanding contribution has demonstrated innovation and responsiveness within the First Nations, Metis, and/or Inuit communities through contributions to public policy, volunteerism, activism, and the advancement of higher education. As the 2023 recipient, Nikita Stamp has done just that. Connection is an endearing theme in Nikita’s life. With her childhood spent on her family’s farm along Pipestone Creek, she has always felt deeply connected to and appreciative of the people, land, and water of the Peace region. Her sense of connection has fostered a commitment to giving back, and these two personal drivers, combined with a great respect for the exchange of knowledge, made her an ideal recipient of this award.

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARD

NWP’s Young Entrepreneur Award recognizes an outstanding professional 30 years old or younger for their achievements to the community and region. The 2023 recipient of the Young Entrepreneur Award is Katie Gaucher. Katie was born and raised in Grande Prairie. Katie knew what she wanted to do from a young age. While tagging along on a “take a student to work” day to a physiotherapist clinic in the 9th grade, she was inspired to pursue physiotherapy as a career and did just that.

Nikita Stamp
Katie Gaucher

Indigenous Exploring Her

At first glance, Margaret Ann Martineau may not seem like a typical student at Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP). Generational differences may exist between the 78-year-old grandmother and her classmates in the Introductory Cree class, but the common ground is an enduring interest in language, history, and cultural teachings.

Growing up in Peace River, Margaret Ann didn’t know her complete family history until a friend asked if she was Indigenous. “I actually didn’t know I was Indian,” recalls Martineau. “It’s a word that I’m not doing away with. You don’t have to do away with something that belongs to you.” Ultimately, this conversation was the primer for a continuous quest to connect with her birthright.

Margaret Ann’s mother was taken to a residential school at the age of five and stayed for nine years until she was removed by family. Although she wouldn’t discuss her time at the school, she would often share traditional stories of nature and healing. Margaret Ann soaked it all in and would later pass these informal teachings to her children and grandchildren. “I always learned that the birds were messengers and if I just paid attention, there was a message there,” she remembers.

Last fall, in an effort to deepen the connection to her Indigenous roots, Margaret Ann registered for NWP’s Introductory Cree course. She signed on as an audit student, which allows for a full classroom experience without the expectation of homework or exams, but was compelled to complete all the assignments. Taught by Darlene Horseman, the 15-week course covers the fundamentals of Plains Cree, with an emphasis on grammar, vocabulary, and speech. “This is the same dialect that my mom would have spoken, had she learned.”

Many words have returned to Margaret Ann since starting Horseman’s class at NWP. “I had a lot of friends from the North. I’d pick up the odd word from them. Teasing mostly. Words like sweetheart or phrases like ‘go away’.” As the class progressed, more familiar words emerged. Martineau learned that

her grandparents and other relatives would often speak Cree in private. “Some things would just come back to me in class, and I’d think where did that come from? I must have heard it at some point.”

Margaret Ann has embraced numerous learning opportunities over the years, but this class has been special. It has also been a springboard for more learning, inspiring the grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of seven to enroll in NWP’s Level 2 Cree language offering. “I’m hoping to learn enough to be able to speak to people who don’t have the opportunity to use their language or maybe they don’t remember it,” she explains. “I want to be able to communicate in my language with people who are wise enough to know that we all spoke the same language at one time. I don’t want to teach it. I just need to absorb everything I can.”

Sharing her culture with family and her newfound friends at NWP is now a priority and passion. Her daughter has been involved in the Indigenous community for many years and both are passing that connection to the younger generations. “I bought two very expensive books in Cree for my grandchildren,” laughs Martineau. “Language is culture. And language is land and earth and is extremely spiritual and environmental. Everything has its place.”

Martineau has found her place at NWP as a tireless seeker of knowledge. “There have been days after class when I go home, sit down and think I’m going to put my feet up and be done for the day,” she says with a grin. “Next thing I know, I’m back at it. My mom lived to be 94 and was an avid reader and very selfeducated. Age didn’t mean a lot to my parents and I guess doesn’t mean a lot to me either.”

Terrance Wold’s journey, from growing up in Grande Prairie to becoming a world-class natural bodybuilder, to his upward trajectory in the fitness and performance industry, reflects his unwavering determination and commitment to personal growth. He’d be the first to also point out, however, that it has been shaped and strengthened by the people and mentors he’s met along the way.

Gratitude A Journey of Growth and

Even when remembering back to his time playing top-tier hockey as a child, this Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) alumni acknowledges the important role that his teammates played in his life. “I was an only child, so hockey helped me form close bonds,” he explains. “Instead of turning to a brother or sister, I typically steered more towards close friendships.”

After high school, having left juniorlevel hockey behind, Terrance ventured briefly into the workforce. He worked within the Parks department for the City of Grande Prairie, before moving on to the City’s arenas. “I loved the people there and it was a good job,” he remembers, “At least until the karma of having to clean up after hockey players got me!”

A desire to learn more about the body, and a sense that he had a lot to offer those who were interested in the same, Terrance enrolled in a two-year personal training diploma program at, what was then, Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC).

“The personal training program is high quality and has a good reputation in the industry. I appreciated that it was a very tight knit community and that you could form these great relationships with the instructors and your classmates,” he explains. “I learned a lot from amazing instructors like Laura Hancharuk, Ray Kardas, and others. You could always count on them to take the extra step in helping you to succeed.”

His passion for strength, conditioning, and physiology officially unleashed, Terrance parlayed his education in personal training into one of NWP’s popular University Transfer programs. He

completed two years of his Bachelor of Kinesiology degree locally, and the remainder at the University of Alberta (U of A) in Edmonton.

From there, Terrance’s growth mindset saw his opportunities to learn and evolve really take off. He got into natural bodybuilding - a movement that seeks to help natural athletes prove themselves without resorting to banned substances. Always quick to give people their due, even in the face of major personal accomplishment, Terrance shares that he “was fortunate enough to be coached by and learn from people like Dr. Layne Norton and Christopher Barakat.” Through time spent with these experts in the science of bodybuilding and physique, and a whole lot of hard work, Terrance earned his professional standing and won his class at the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation Pro International Championship in 2023.

While his free time was spent preparing for bodybuilding competitions, he continued to expand his career and physiological expertise by securing an internship supporting the Edmonton Oilers’ esteemed strength and conditioning team. “I was there throughout the summer training program right through the playoff run, assisting with data collection, working with injured athletes, supporting with workouts, and helping with game day preparations.”

Having greatly enjoyed his time with the Oilers, Terrance then moved on to Archetype, where he is today. He enthusiastically contributes to his clients’ success through a balance of coaching, training, teaching, and lifestyle strategies.

He hasn’t left hockey far behind, however, as he’s also the Strength

and Conditioning coach for the Spruce Grove Saints hockey team. “I really enjoy my role with the team, given my history with the sport and the essential role that it has played throughout my life. I like that I’m following in the footsteps of the people who helped me become a better athlete and person. I hope I can make them proud and have as meaningful an impact on these young athletes’ lives, as my many mentors and coaches have had on me.”

When asked what advice he might have for students interested in following in his footsteps, he had this to say: “I think it’s good for people to realize, especially in northern Alberta, that there are many careers beyond those in the oil patch. The fitness industry is ever-changing, and presents an exciting combination of athleticism, intellectual pursuits, and interpersonal elements. For those who are both passion and people driven, I’d suggest that it’s a great avenue to explore.”

We couldn’t agree more. If pursuing a career in health promotion, injury prevention, and rehabilitation, and/or sports performance sounds like a good fit for you, visit NWP.me/PEAK.

“I think it’s good for people to realize, especially in northern Alberta, that there are many careers beyond those in the oil patch...”

Following the logic that ‘life is what you make of it,’ it could be argued that the international student experience is what one brings to it. Take for instance, Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) student Evan Flores, who arrived in Grande Prairie from the Philippines less than a year ago and has already established a solid foundation for her new life that includes a supportive and encouraging network, broad life experience, and a strong work ethic. These elements, coupled with her positive and enthusiastic attitude, are having a pronounced impact on her experience in Canada, her success at NWP, and the future she envisions for her family and herself.

From relocating overseas to postsecondary program selection, family dynamics have guided Evan’s decisions and actions. In fact, when talk of a move abroad started, the focus wasn’t on her own education but rather that of her oldest teenage daughter who was interested in leaving the Philippines. Evan and her husband had mixed feelings. Although their daughter was eager to stretch her wings, they weren’t sure they were ready to allow her to be on her own in a new country. So, the plan evolved from one traveler to the whole family relocating, and the possibility of Evan herself going back to school.

It was Evan’s sister who first floated the idea of Alberta. Having lived in the Peace region for more than 15 years, she could attest to the benefits of both the community and campus environment. Her sister’s positive experience, and the reassurance of having a family member already established in the area, was enough for Evan to research and enrol in NWP’s Business Administration Diploma.

Everything fell into place quite quickly and seamlessly. As one relation stepped up to manage the family’s business in the Philippines, another family connection in Canada helped Evan and her husband secure the apartment where the family now lives.

As an older student, Evan came to NWP with a wealth of life and career experience under her belt. After studying computer engineering technology in the Philippines, she

worked for 15 years building her business acumen and skills. “At first, I was responsible for selling safety training materials to US companies. From there I took a job as a virtual assistant for another US company, where I did a bit of everything from accounting to the website,” she explains. “It was a very good experience because I learned a lot about business and had the opportunity to travel to the US and meet our clients there.”

With e-commerce taking off in the Philippines, she and her family launched an online business that soon went from a side gig to a full-time job. It was her experience as a business owner that led Evan to choose NWP’s Business School. Along with being interested in marketing, she was eager to build on her entrepreneurial knowledge and skills.

Family support and lived experience have been grounding factors in Evan’s Canadian adventure so far, but it is her strong work ethic that is cementing her success. She is excelling in her program and proving that it is possible to balance school, work, and family.

While the life of an international student certainly has its challenges, Evan seems to maintain her positive attitude even in the face of trying times. “I like the school and I like how the education is here,” she shares. “Canadian people are really nice. The culture is different than in the Philippines, but so far, it’s all good.”

Northern Alberta Medical Program

Medical education has officially arrived in the Peace Region.

NWP is proud to partner with the University of Alberta to recruit, train, and retain future family medicine and general practice physicians.

Applications are now being accepted with classes set to begin in Fall 2025.

With an intriguing blend of mathematics and art, Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) is pushing traditional boundaries. As a master sculptor, Laura Marotta is currently engaged in a research project with the Department of Science instructor, Dr. Brian Redmond. This project defies conventional thought and celebrates geometry’s charm.

The distinctive project is a visually stunning and intellectually challenging fusion of art and mathematics that illustrates the beauty generated when two unlikely disciplines intersect.

Laura’s passion is palpable as she talks about her work. “I found myself drawn to this particular form due to its spiky nature, featuring both convex and concave elements,” says Laura. “However, without Brian’s mathematical expertise, I would never have been able to create it.”

The collaboration between Marotta and Redmond, a master of numbers

and equations, is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary learning and cooperation. Brian’s mathematical expertise enables Laura’s artistic vision to become a tangible reality, transforming abstract concepts into physical form. Their work showcases the beauty of unexpected connections.

Central to Marotta’s work is her ambition to dismantle barriers and promote collaboration. In her office, surrounded by the framework of her current project, she reflects on her unique approach. It involves understanding geometry to unfold it and create a net, bridging practical and impractical aspects. This approach also ties in with industrial design elements.

The pair is crafting a form that previously didn’t exist: a gravitydefying, spiky geometric structure. A deep understanding of geometric shapes, forms, and patterns is necessary to engineer the piece. As Marotta discusses the project, she emphasizes the importance of collaboration and co-learning. “We don’t realize how much we rely on others and learn together. To create novel solutions to problems, we often

need diverse knowledge bases.”

Marotta’s innovative approach to art and dedication to collaboration exemplify NWP’s ethos. She embodies this spirit of innovation and seeks to instill it in her students. By fostering a collaborative environment within the institution, she encourages dialogue between the Fine Arts department and other departments.

Marotta’s eye for practical patterning and artistic application grew exponentially after her master’s degree. “It was during my graduate studies that I discovered a passion for sculpting.”

Her involvement in a digital haptic lab expanded her artistic capabilities and shaped her perspective on the infinite possibilities of collaborative work.

As a recipient of the Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship, Marotta sees her work as a bridge between disparate disciplines. Her large-scale, community-engaged sculptures disrupt traditional grid systems and serve multiple needs. They are social prompts, connecting diverse audiences and encouraging interaction.

Innovative ARTISTRY

Marotta continues to explore the intersection of architecture and modular construction, carving a unique path in the fine arts world. Her work is an indication of the magic that happens when we work together and step out of our individual silos. As she continues to blur the boundaries between art and mathematics, Marotta paints a vivid picture of the creativity, innovation, and collaboration potential. This vision, crafted by Laura’s work and dedication, will undoubtedly inspire her students, colleagues, and the broader community at NWP.

Bryan Faulkner, owner of Randco Millwright Services Ltd. and an alumnus of Northwestern Polytechnic’s (NWP) Millwright program, is a man on a mission. His goal is the expansion and improvement of the program that gave him the tools for success.

“We have always strived to provide the best training environment that utilizes real-world equipment,” Bryan says, a sentiment that clearly reflects his dedication to the program. Randco, has volunteered a significant amount of time and resources to create training equipment for the Millwright program. This equipment isn’t just for the Millwright students; it’s also designed to be used by students from other trades at the polytechnic.

Bryan’s innovative multi-use approach is a direct response to the challenges that NWP’s Millwright program faces. “The program is bursting at the seams. We need to make room for more students and provide them with the quality education they deserve,” he explains.

Bryan’s passion for the Millwright program stems from his own experience as a student. He believes that the program can and should strive to offer more real-world experiences to its students. “Why can’t we do more? Why can’t we have them talk about stuff that you’ll see in the field that you’ll learn the moment you encounter it? In some cases, that is the way it’s gonna be. But in a big case, I don’t see why we couldn’t strive for that,” he passionately questions.

Bryan’s commitment to his trade goes beyond words. He has backed up his advocacy with real action. His company has built training equipment that is helping to educate individuals

and industries alike. This contribution has greatly benefited NWP, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with the type of equipment they will be using in their future careers.

His vision extends further than just improving the Millwright program, as he is deeply invested in improving the overall quality of education at NWP. Bryan envisions a program that is more responsive to the needs of the students and the industry, a program that doesn’t just prepare students to earn a qualification, but also equips them to excel in their chosen field.

Bryan’s tireless dedication to the Millwright program is a testament to his belief in the power of education and his commitment to helping others succeed. He is a shining example of the impact that one person can have when they are driven by passion and a desire to make a difference.

Bryan Faulkner

Bryan’s commitment goes beyond words. He has backed up his advocacy with real action.

It’s said that success isn’t just about climbing the ladder; it’s about finding the right ladder to climb. Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), or more specifically Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC), was an important rung on Kelly Burake’s ladder to success, not once but twice as he climbed to where he is today.

Kelly, now the President of Dynamud Logistics Services (DLS) Inc., first attended GPRC to earn his Class 1 driver’s license at the age of 18. “I was able to afford the program by pooling a $650 inheritance I’d received from my grandmother, with some money I’d saved working seasonal agricultural jobs,” he remembers. His intention was to complete his Class 1, haul gravel for a season, and return to school with the money he’d earn. What he didn’t expect was to like trucking enough that he’d still be working in the industry some 25 years later. “I had contemplated a career in trades

as a plumber or electrician, but in the end, I found a career in trucking that paid me well, kept me busy, and that I enjoyed, so I stuck with it.”

The second time he attended GPRC was to upgrade some high school courses to enroll in a Master of Business Administration program. Thinking back to the experience of taking Math 20 as an adult, Kelly recalls being a bit wideeyed when the instructor first asked them to do some long division. Having not used that particular skill in quite awhile, he was a little worried that he might need to call on Google for some help, but thankfully he soon found that “it was like riding a bike and it all came back.”

Getting back to school had been a long time coming but developing his leadership skills had been part of the plan from the very beginning. “I remember telling a counsellor in high school that I just wanted to be the boss. He informed me that it didn’t quite work like that.”

Becoming the boss may not have been quite as immediate as a younger Kelly would have liked, but he achieved this nonetheless. After working 21 years as an employee, mostly for the same company, Kelly decided it was time to take the next step and go into business for himself. “Initially I hauled gravel for a few months and on July 1, 2014, I started DLS.” DLS, known today as Western Canada’s leading transportation and logistics provider of drilling fluids, has a fleet of about 30 trucks and operates across Alberta, BC, Yukon, and Alaska.

With DLS celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Kelly was looking for an opportunity to give back to the industry and the institution that had served him so well. He decided it was the ideal time to donate a brand-new

tandem trailer to NWP’s Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT) program. “I’ve always felt that re-investing in the community, and supporting those in need, is an important function of good business. Up and coming truckers face challenges like never before, so if I can provide the tools to learn the trade and possibly reduce the barriers to entry, that’s a cause worth supporting.”

Kelly acknowledges that there are challenges facing the trucking industry, including the cost of training, an aging demographic, and evolving insurance

regulations, but he’s also quick to point out the positive changes he’s seen over the last 20 years. He recognizes the benefit of better training –including the MELT program – the enhanced safety regulations, and the extensive efforts being made to minimize the environmental impact of this essential industry.

He’s also positive about the opportunities afforded through a career in trucking. Having progressed through the ranks from driver, to dispatcher, and all the way to the top job, his trajectory is a great example of the unlimited potential available to those in the industry. “My advice to

those considering a career in trucking is to accept whatever job is available (within reason) and do what it takes to get your license. Once you have some experience, you can basically write your own future, whether you want to drive forever or move into dispatching, fleet management, procurement, or ownership. Once you’ve earned it, you always have something to fall back on, and it’s a job that is always in demand.”

NWP and its students thank Kelly for his generous donation and his support of those hoping to follow him up the ladder to career fulfillment and success.

PARTNERSHIPS AND PROGRAMS THAT WORK.

Celebrating 20 Years of ThinkingBIG

A hallmark of polytechnic education is the ability to adapt to industry needs and provide a responsive pipeline of knowledgeable and engaged graduates who are ready to work.

The globally recognized ThinkBIG program is a prime example. For two decades, this industry-leading partnership has been providing a heavy equipment technician diploma program to students who in turn receive the targeted knowledge and skills required to go directly from graduation to working in any of Finning Canada’s 40 locations across western Canada.

The ThinkBIG Service Technician program is a unique partnership between Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), Caterpillar Inc. (Cat®), and Finning Canada, Caterpillar’s largest dealer worldwide.

NWP is the only post-secondary institution in Canada to offer this 20-month (80-week) training program, which is custom formulated to meet both Alberta Apprenticeship examination requirements and provide competencies directly related to Cat® equipment.

“NWP prides itself on fostering impactful partnerships that drive innovation and opportunity within our region and beyond,” says Cindy Park, NWP Vice-President External Relations. “The ThinkBIG Service Technician program exemplifies our collaborative approach to creating transformative educational experiences where students can not only gain comprehensive technical expertise, but also forge invaluable connections within the industry.”

Scott Erwin was a member of the inaugural 2004 class and explains that back then, “it was pretty tough to get an apprenticeship with Finning, but I knew they dealt with the type of equipment that I was most interested in working on.” He has good memories of his time in the program, especially appreciating the smaller class size. “It was great being in school with the same 12 people for the whole two years. You got to know and get close with each other, and we all helped one another out.”

Apprenticeship Manager for Finning Canada, Scott Coonfer, has noticed the same thing. “The program isn’t for the faint of heart, but they all work together. Some students understand electrical better than others, so they’ll

work to bring everyone else up to the same level. Then another student might be better at hydraulics, so they take the lead on that. We see great camaraderie and friendship built over the two years that lasts long past graduation.”

In terms of the value of the program for Finning, Coonfer shares that, “As the sponsor of the program, we build relationships with each of the students while introducing them to the Finning culture.” He went on to explain that ThinkBIG is delivered slightly differently than a traditional apprenticeship. There are five semesters or blocks, and each block is divided into eight weeks of class and lab time on campus, and eight weeks of paid practicum at a licensed Finning location, so that they can earn while they learn. “And upon graduation, because we’ve had the opportunity to work with and mentor each student throughout the program,” he says with a smile, “we typically hire them all.”

Making sure that the graduates will be a good fit for future employment at Finning starts from the very beginning. Coonfer is involved in interviewing each of the applicants, which is no small job given that Finning typically

receives 160 applications for a 40seat enrolment. His evaluations are based less on experience and more on passion, interest, and enthusiasm. “I find that when I can get people talking about their hobbies and what they do in their free time, that’s where I learn the most about them. We’re not looking for someone who is just chasing a paycheque. In our industry, you have to love what you do or it’s not going to work out.”

Students write a provincial exam at the end of each semester (not including the first) and earn 1800 hours of credit towards their apprenticeship. They then enter the industry as a secondyear apprentice with all their schooling complete. One great benefit of the program is the opportunity it affords graduates to choose where they end up.

“We accept students from all over, and most of them want to work close to home when they’re done,” explains Coonfer. “We work, as much as possible, to place our graduates right into full-time positions within the region of their choice, whether that’s Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, NWT, or the Yukon.”

A few things have changed since the program kicked off in 2004, a

notable one being the efforts made to encourage a diverse demographic of students of all genders, ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds. “We’re trying to spread the word that with advancements in the industry, like increased safety regulations and lifting aids, a career in heavy equipment technology is a viable option for everyone.”

Another significant shift has been the technological advances of the equipment and processes being taught. Caterpillar is continually innovating with advancements in technology, including the introduction of hydraulic systems, electronic controls, and computerized monitoring systems, and they have long embraced digitalization and connectivity trends, integrating telematics and remote monitoring systems into their signature equipment.

Scott Erwin knows this better than anyone. After graduating from the program in 2005, Erwin stepped into his first position at Finning the very next week. He started out in an Edmonton facility but moved into the field less than a year later. It was obviously a good move as he spent the next 12 years working out of a

service truck, travelling to different construction and mining sites, and fixing a wide variety of equipment. Then, following the path of many technicians once their “back hurts too much and they can’t take working in the cold,” as Erwin jokingly puts it, he joined Finning’s technical service branch.

“Our job is to help technicians gather information from Cat® to support their troubleshooting in the field,” he explains. “Sometimes we can draw on our technical background and experience to help them out, and we also have direct lines to Cat® that connect us to the most up-to-date information. We get to learn about all the new products and technology as soon as they’re released, which makes for a really interesting environment to work in.”

There has never been a better time to check out the ThinkBIG program as industry demand has allowed Finning and NWP to initiate a third cohort of students, bringing the enrolment to 60 students this year. If accelerated training, great job prospects upon graduation, and a career that grows with you, sounds like the right fit for you or someone you know, visit nwpolytech.ca to learn more.

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