NORTHERN ALBERTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Six outstanding recipients named 2026 NAIT Celebrates award winners

NAIT is proud to announce the outstanding alumni, donors and industry partners of NAIT Celebrates 2026. The annual event honours individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership and generosity have created a lasting impact at the polytechnic and in the broader community. 

"NAIT Celebrates is a powerful reminder of the incredible people and partners who help define NAIT's legacy," said Daryl Silzer, Vice-President External Relations and Chief Development Officer. "This year's recipients embody the leadership, generosity and community spirit that make a lasting difference for our students and alumni, and we are honoured to celebrate their achievements and ongoing impact." 

2026 NAIT Celebrates Award Recipients 

• Distinguished Industry Partner: Suncor's partnership with NAIT spans nearly four decades modelling how industry and education can work together to create opportunities, strengthen communities, and prepare the next generation of skilled professionals. Learn more. 
• Distinguished Friend of the Institute: Daniel Yeung (Dental Laboratory Technology 81), one of Canada's leading experts in dental technology, has built a career defined by technical excellence, mentorship, and decades of generous support for NAIT. Learn more.
• Distinguished Alumni: Jennifer Kinzer (Construction Engineering Technology 03), is a leader and advocate for women in construction who generously shares her time and expertise with the NAIT community. Learn more.
• Alumni Award of Excellence: Asmahan Rabo (Water & Wastewater Technician 12, BTech in Technology Management 10, and Chemical Technology 05), is applying her expertise in installing water systems and advance sustainable access to clean water in underserved communities. Learn more.
• Alumni Award of Excellence: Patrick Twinn (Hospitality Management 11), has built a career defined by Indigenous advocacy, community service, and leadership in corporate reconciliation. Learn more.
• Spirit of NAIT Alumni Award: Seth Potter (Dental Technology 15), is a global trainer passionate about making digital dental design education more accessible. Learn more.

A Legacy of Recognition 

NAIT has a long history of acknowledging excellence, philanthropy, and service. The Distinguished Friend of the Institute Award was first presented in 1985, followed by the Distinguished Alumni Award in 1997 (formerly the Alumni Award of Distinction). The Spirit of NAIT Alumni Award was introduced in 2005, the Alumni Award of Excellence in 2017, and the Distinguished Industry Partner Award in 2020. 

Together, these awards reflect NAIT's commitment to celebrating the people and partners who help build opportunity, fuel innovation and inspire future generations of learners.