NAIT President and CEO Laura Jo Gunter has shared her plans to retire as president next year, following a transformative tenure marked by resilience, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to student success. The decision is rooted in providing the Board of Governors with enough time to identify the right leader to guide NAIT into its next chapter. Gunter will actively continue in her role to support a smooth and thoughtful transition, with her contract set to end in October 2027.
"NAIT is a remarkable institution. I am proud of what we have, and will, achieve together, from advancing The NAIT Effect to moving forward with the Advanced Skills Centre. Our students, staff, industry partners, and community are what make this place truly exceptional. I am confident the institution will continue to thrive and grow its impact as a leader in delivering exceptional polytechnic education."
Laura Jo Gunter
Gunter joined NAIT in August 2020, at a pivotal moment for post-secondary education. She led the institution through the recovery of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring continuity of learning while strengthening NAIT's position as a leading polytechnic. Her leadership guided NAIT through a period of uncertainty and change with stability and purpose.
Central to Gunter's leadership was the development and implementation of The NAIT Effect the institution's strategic plan. The NAIT Effect continues to serve as a guiding framework for decision-making, performance measurement, and long-term vision, reinforcing NAIT's values and promises, as well as its role in shaping a workforce that supports Alberta's economic growth and innovation.
While serving as President and CEO, Gunter prioritized institutional resilience and financial sustainability. She successfully guided NAIT through significant external pressures, including navigating the decline in international student enrolment, ensuring the polytechnic remained stable and responsive in a rapidly changing environment.
Gunter also played a key role in advancing the most significant project in NAIT's history the Advanced Skills Centre. Her leadership helped secure significant provincial funding for the 625,000 square foot facility, positioning NAIT to further strengthen skilled trades and technology education in Alberta. The project has now moved from planning and design to construction phase, following a government funding announcement earlier this month.
"Laura Jo has shown a steadfast commitment to NAIT's mission, leading the institution through a significant period of progress and helping to establish a strong foundation that will support NAIT's growth and impact for years to come. On behalf of the Board, we appreciate all she has done to position NAIT for the future, and we value the leadership she will continue to bring as we work with her to support a smooth and seamless transition."
Melanie Bayley, Board Chair, NAIT
Throughout her leadership, Gunter has remained focused on strengthening the student experience, enhancing partnerships with industry, and reinforcing NAIT's role in building vibrant communities and globally competitive industries. Her efforts have contributed to steady enrolment growth, program evolution, and the success of thousands of graduates entering the workforce.
NAIT will soon begin the process to recruit its next President and CEO.
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