STRATEGIC DIRECTION 3: CREATIVE, INNOVATIVE AND ENTREPRENEURIAL THINKING

As Niagara College looks to the future, it is driven by a commitment to experiential learning and its leadership position in applied education, and will capitalize on its culture of creativity and innovative thinking towards a digitally proficient, culturally aware and adaptable team of practitioners. In parallel, the College will strategically invest in learnerdriven services, systems and technology to meet the evolving needs of tomorrow’s learners.

Through applied research, Niagara College is a key player in the economic development of Niagara and beyond. As the quantity and scope of applied research projects grow, so too will the opportunities for students to apply the skills and knowledge they’ve developed in the classroom alongside faculty, researchers and industry partners to solve real-world problems. Programs will further develop curricular opportunities for students to engage in applied learning projects. These research opportunities strengthen the link between industry and education and foster innovative and entrepreneurial skills in students. The strategic vision sees Niagara College expanding its scope to include Canadian and global initiatives which leverage the College’s market position in its focus countries and which supports Niagara’s small-to mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to go global.

It will do so through new growth opportunities, ensuring the College community’s skills align with emerging learning models and technologies, changing student needs/expectations and new market opportunities.

As the needs of students evolve, we are witnessing the emergence of new education models that include for-profit online modules or badges, online credentials and private-public partnerships. There is also an increasing demand to recognize prior learning outside formal educational institutions as reflected in emerging partnerships that recognize industry-specific education and training. Niagara College will pursue industry-academic collaboration that capitalizes on the College’s strong connections and support for key industries and partners.

Building on its ability to develop niche programs such as Culinary Innovation and Food Technology, Renewable Energies Technician, Artisan Distilling, and Commercial Beekeeping, Niagara College will develop new offerings and adapt existing programs in response to emerging trends and the needs of key industry sectors.