Northwestern Polytechnic has taken a significant step toward centralizing its trades programming and meeting industry needs. Northern Alberta's largest post-secondary institution is now the owner of a 30,000 square foot facility located at 112 Street and 100 Avenue, which will soon become home to a new Skilled Trades Training Centre focused on in-demand apprenticeship and trades training.
"This development marks an important milestone in our commitment to skilled trades workforce development, industry partnerships, and economic growth," said Dr. Vanessa Sheane, President and CEO of Northwestern Polytechnic. "By centralizing our programming and establishing a dedicated Skilled Trades Centre in the heart of industry, we become more accessible to students and strengthen the productive partnerships that will give our region a competitive advantage."
This strategic investment represents a major milestone in addressing the growing demand for skilled trades professionals across Northern Alberta.
"Across Northern Alberta, the demand for skilled trades professionals continues to outpace supply," said Justin Staffen, Vice President, Grande Prairie Construction Association. "This investment by Northwestern Polytechnic directly addresses that gap by expanding access to high-quality, hands-on training and producing job-ready graduates our industry urgently needs. Purpose-built training environments that support collaboration and cross-training between trades are essential to building a resilient workforce now and into the future."
Recognizing the benefits of leading-edge training spaces that enhance collaboration between trades -- and the urgent need for skilled apprentices across the construction, fabrication, transportation, and energy sectors -- Northwestern Polytechnic is continuing to expand Grande Prairie facilities, programming, and industry partnerships. This past fall, the Polytechnic opened two new state-of-the-art training facilities: the Spartan Controls Northwestern Centre for Industrial Automation & Innovation and the CDN Electrical Education Centre. These industry-replicated learning environments were designed to better equip students with practical, job-ready skills, and the new Skilled Trades Training Centre will reflect the same practical, workforce-focused approach.
The newly acquired site, located just minutes from NWP's main campus, is being purposefully developed to support hands-on training, applied learning, and industry-aligned education. Endorsed by NWP's Board of Governors, the timely expansion will focus on high-demand skilled trades and is a key component of the Polytechnic's broader strategy to improve operational efficiency and optimize limited resources through centralized programming, enhanced student accessibility, strengthened employer networks, and coordinated regional investment and growth.
"Today's announcement is a major milestone for the Grande Prairie region. By expanding learning opportunities for skilled trades, we are supporting community and business growth," said Mayor Jackie Clayton, City of Grande Prairie. "This expansion means connecting future workers with education and career pathways, and supporting businesses with a ready and available workforce for growing industry demands."
NWP's newest Grande Prairie asset will feature multiple modern training shops and flexible learning spaces that reflect real-world working environments and regional labour market needs.
This strategic investment underscores Northwestern Polytechnic's long-term vision to expand skilled trades education, attract new talent and retain apprentices in the region, and strengthen the connection between training, employment, and economic development.
Planning and design work is underway in anticipation of Fall 2026 apprenticeship intakes. For more information and project updates, visit NWP.me/ToolsForSuccess.
