Rural communities thrive when students can learn, train and work in communities where they live.
That's why Alberta's government is investing more than $7 million in 2026-27 to expand and modernize training at Lakeland College, ensuring post-secondary infrastructure keeps pace with growing regional workforce demand.
Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation Tara Sawyer
Funding will support upgrades and expansion of the beef yard, along with the relocation of horse pen facilities at the Vermilion campus. These improvements will expand training capacity, modernize learning spaces, and strengthen the connection between students, employers and the rural communities they support.
"Institutions like Lakeland College keep rural communities strong by connecting Albertans to education and careers close to home. This investment strengthens those institutions, expands modern training spaces and builds Alberta's workforce."
Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education
The project will enhance animal welfare and student learning. Originally built for 60 students and 100 cows, the beef yard now supports more than 80 students and 220 cows. Upgrades will bring facilities in line with current demand while supporting future growth. The horse pen relocation will replace aging infrastructure with modern, purpose-built spaces designed to improve animal care, enhance safety and strengthen the quality of hands-on training.
"Alberta's agriculture sector depends on skilled people, strong producers, and practical training that reflects the realities of modern agriculture. This investment will help Lakeland College continue preparing students for rewarding careers while supporting innovation and long-term strength in rural Alberta."
Tara Sawyer, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation
This investment will also strengthen Lakeland College's hands-on, student-managed learning approach and expand applied research that benefits producers and the broader livestock sector.
"We are grateful to the Government of Alberta for its continued investment in Lakeland College and its commitment to strengthening the future of agriculture in our province. This support is instrumental in advancing the revitalization of our student-managed farm lab, including critical upgrades to our beef yard facilities and the relocation of our horse pens, ensuring our immersive learning environments reflect the needs of today's industry. These investments will enhance the hands-on experiences that set Lakeland apart, equipping students with the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead the future of agriculture while supporting innovation and growth across Alberta's ag sector."
Alice Wainright-Stewart, president and CEO Lakeland College
Quick facts
- Lakeland College and external funders have invested $1.83 million in the Beef Yard Upgrade and Expansion and Horse Pen Relocation project.
- Project construction is scheduled to start in July, with completion anticipated in November 2028.
- Lakeland College is a public comprehensive community college serving east-central Alberta through foundational learning, certificate, diploma and undergraduate degree programming, along with apprenticeship instruction and applied research.
- The college supports access to learning and training opportunities across the region and helps connect students to local industry and workforce needs.
- In 2024-25, Lakeland College reported more than 4,000 full- and part-time students.
- In the same academic year, Lakeland College offered 908 apprenticeship seats across nine registered apprenticeship programs.
