The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) has embarked on one of its most significant transformations in nearly a decade, unveiling a new academic structure this summer. Effective August 19, the polytechnic has expanded its academic structure from four to seven schools, marking a strategic reorganization aimed at enhancing student experience and strengthening industry connections.
"We have outstanding programs," said Peter Leclaire, NAIT's Vice-President Academic. "But, over the years, the connection between those programs and industry was loosening."
The new 7-school structure is designed to reconnect NAIT programs with the industries they serve, ensuring graduates are equipped to meet evolving workforce demands. By grouping programs based on the sectors they support, it creates more opportunities for collaboration and allows leaders to strengthen connections across a broad range of industries. Those relationships are critical to shaping programs that align with the economy's needs and technological advancements.
NAIT's new academic structure also fosters collaboration that mirrors real-world industry dynamics. For example, students in the Engineering Design Technology program now study alongside those in Carpentry within the School of Construction and Building Sciences, simulating the collaborative environment of a worksite.
This approach leads to better outcomes for both students and the industries they will enter.
"By mimicking the collaboration and engagement that happens on a worksite," says Leclaire, "we get a better outcome overall."
The restructuring followed extensive engagement with faculty, staff, and members of industry, and while the new structure is now in place, it is seen as an ongoing project that will continue to evolve.
"The direction of the economy, industry and technology are going to constantly drive us to make changes," says Leclaire. "In turn, the grads NAIT produces will play a role in influencing that direction and help ensure the province's future prosperity."
NAIT's seven new schools are:
- JR Shaw School of Business - this school emphasizes immersive learning and strong industry connections, offering programs in entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and more.
- School of Construction and Building Sciences - this school offers industry-aligned programs in construction, including apprenticeship training and diplomas that reflect the latest tools, technologies, and best practices.
- School of Energy and Natural Resources - this school focuses on sustainability and hands-on training in the energy and natural resource sectors.
- School of Health and Life Sciences - this school combines traditional learning with state-of-the-art simulations to prepare students for various healthcare roles.
- School of Manufacturing and Automation - this school offers programs tailored to meet the demands of the manufacturing and automation sectors.
- School of Media and Information Technology - this school prepares students for careers in digital content, network security, data analysis, and communications.
- School of Transportation - this school offers hands-on training in automotive repair, crane operation, and more.
NAIT also welcomed two new deans to kick off the 2024-25 academic year.
Dr. Agatha Ojimelukwe a distinguished educational leader with more than 11 years of experience in post-secondary education, encompassing teaching, research, and leadership at NAIT and previously at the University of Port-Harcourt will lead the School of Energy and Natural Resources.
Stephen McMillan, MEng, PEng, RSE joins NAIT from British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), where he enjoyed a distinguished 15-year career including his most recent role as the Associate Dean of Mechanical Engineering. McMillan will lead the School of Manufacturing and Automation and the School of Transportation.
For more information
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www.nait.ca
