Community Report 2022: A Year in Review

At Northern Lakes College, we count our success one student at a time

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2022 was another great year at Northern Lakes College! NLC is always ready to meet the challenges and embrace the opportunities, and it shows!

NLC continues to focus on accessibility to meet the changing landscape of education and the needs of learners. Our innovative Supported Distance Learning (SDL) and Supported Distance Teaching (SDT) models ensure programs and services are accessible to students everywhere. Our students do not have to relocate to pursue their post-secondary goals. They do not have to move away from familial or community support systems. For many students, this accessibility is the difference between participating in post-secondary education or not.

Accessibility means opening new campuses, like the Fox Creek Campus, or renewing facilities, such as the High Prairie and Trout Lake campuses. It also means expanding program offerings through partnerships, such as that with the University of Calgary’s Werklund School of Education to provide access to a Bachelor of Education, operating Community Adult Learning

Programs (CALPs) to provide access to literacy and numeracy training, and delivering programs at CampusAlberta partner institutions, such as Academic Upgrading and Practical Nurse with Lakeland College. It is all about increasing opportunities for learners through growth and collaboration.

Dynamic communities require a committed educational partner in order to ensure that students can continue their education, improve their employment opportunities, and enhance their quality of life. These opportunities are key to ensure the growth and prosperity of communities. Our unique partnership with a network of Community Education Committees (CECs) ensures local residents have access to the education and training suitable to their needs and goals. CEC members serve as liaisons between the College, First Nations, Métis Settlements, and communities. Together, we are able to meet the unique needs of our region and our learners.

Community Report 2022: A Year in Review is an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and opportunities of the last year. Enjoy our publication as we celebrate and reflect!

Barry Sharkawi

Board Chair Dr. Glenn Mitchell President & CEO

Northern Lakes College respectfully acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 8 territory and Métis Nation of Alberta regions 4, 5, and 6, traditional lands of First Nations and Métis Peoples.

Northern Lakes College has the singular vision to provide the most accessible educational opportunities. No matter where you are, you can start here and go anywhere. Let us inspire your new beginnings and help create your endless possibilities.

CONvOCATION 2022

Celebration

Northern Lakes College celebrated 665 graduates from the class of 2022 at a ceremony on June 3. NLC graduates, staff, and faculty, along with guests, family, and friends, gathered at the Slave Lake Multi recreation Centre to mark the event. This was the first in-person convocation held since 2019.

Charlie Orr, Chair of the Peerless Lake Community Education Committee, led the ceremony with an opening prayer, followed by Canada’s national anthem. Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Michelle Mitchell, welcomed attendees and introduced a number of dignitaries, including Board Chair, Mr. Barry Sharkawi, who brought greetings from the Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College.

Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO, delivered the congratulatory address, commending graduates for demonstrating perseverance in these unprecedented times. He said, “As a community-based college, we know our students and their stories and today we celebrate with them; their persistence, their achievement and, ultimately, their success! At Northern Lakes College, we count our success one student at a time. We could not be prouder of all they have accomplished and, as an NLC family, we will continue to cheer them on in the future.”

Dr. Amy Burns, from the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary, delivered the keynote address. valedictorian Diana Lambert delivered the student address on behalf of the class of 2022 and Elizabeth Gedcke brought greetings from the NLC Students’ Association. Also recognized during the ceremony was the recipient of the 2022 Friend of Northern Lakes College Award, the Werklund School of Education, for its partnership in delivering the Community-Based Bachelor of Education to the Northern Lakes College region.

The 2022 Practical Nurse students celebrated the completion of their program with a traditional capping and pinning ceremony on the evening of June 2. This is a candlelight ceremony during which each nursing student is presented with a nursing cap and pin. The Practical Nurse program graduated 71 students from across the service region.

As a community-based college, we know our students and their stories and today we celebrate with them; their persistence, their achievement, and ultimately, their success!

– Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

OF NOrTHErN LAKES COLLEGE AWArD

Due to a partnership with the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary, Northern Lakes College is able to offer a Bachelor of Education degree to our service region. The Community-Based Bachelor of Education degree prepares students to teach grades K-12, which means increasing the number of locallytrained high school teachers, as well as elementary and junior high teachers. The partnership has also increased the specializations available to students, meaning we can prepare senior high-level subject matter experts in a variety of fields to meet the needs of our communities’ schools.

The partnership allows NLC University Studies students to transfer courses towards the completion of the Werklund School of Education’s Community-Based Bachelor of Education degree. This provides students living in the College’s northern, rural, and remote communities with an opportunity to complete the majority of their program requirements without leaving home. Specializations in the program include Early Childhood Education, English, Math, revitalization of Indigenous Languages, Science, and Social Studies. The collaboration has led to significant growth in enrolment in the College’s University Studies program. When the collaboration was announced in the fall of 2019, NLC had 120 seats in its University Studies program. With demand continually increasing, the College expanded to more than 260 seats by 2022, with many students intending to continue into the Community-Based Bachelor of Education degree.

The Werklund School of Education provides students with an exceptional level of support, from advising to program planning and finding pathways. Not only is the volume of support excellent, but it is also very personalized. Northern Lakes College is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Werklund School of Education to meet the education needs of the region.

Candidates for the Friend of Northern Lakes College Award (Organization) have demonstrated a commitment to the success and advancement of Northern Lakes College, its students, and communities. This organization is active in its support of, and partnership with, Northern Lakes College and in supporting postsecondary education.

Dr. Amy Burns accepts the award on behalf of the Werklund School of Education.

NOrTHErN LAKES COLLEGE WINS

Chamber Business Award

Northern Lakes College was proud to be the recipient of the 2021 Large Business Award distributed by the Slave Lake & District Chamber of Commerce. The ceremony, which was postponed due to COvID-19, was held virtually in January 2022.

The Large Business Award, sponsored by ATCO Slave Lake, highlights the College contribution to the region, commitment to innovation, support of employees, and long-term service to the community:

For over 50 years, Northern Lakes College has been providing flexible, quality programs and services to students in northern Alberta. The innovative Supported Distance Learning model, unique to Northern Lakes College, provides flexibility for students in accessing their courses and programs. It enables students to study from their home community, drawing on support networks of family, friends, and their community

itself. No moving to the city is required! Thousands of Northern Lakes College graduates are now employed in many vocations throughout the north, all over Alberta, and beyond. The NLC Supported Distance Teaching model provides faculty with robust supports with the goal of providing the best possible experience for students. The College achieves excellence in work life balance and opportunities for professional development for employees.

“On behalf of Northern Lakes College, I wish to express sincere thanks to the Slave Lake & District Chamber of Commerce for selecting NLC as the Large Business Award recipient in the 2021 Business Awards. This recognition is significant to our College and our community. The Chamber’s effort to celebrate the business community in Slave Lake promotes excellence and community building, and Northern Lakes College thanks the Chamber for this,” comments Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO.

Dr. Glenn Mitchell accepts the Chamber Business Award from Josh Friesen, Executive Director, Community Futures Slave Lake.

Accessible, Community

Based EDUCATION WITH NOrTHErN LAKES COLLEGE

Northern Lakes College is a community-based institution that recognizes the importance of providing accessibility for students. The College has developed its own innovative Supported Distance Learning (SDL) model specifically designed to meet the challenge of providing an array of post-secondary learning opportunities directly in communities, enabling students to live at home while furthering their education. Our Northern Lakes College delivery model ensures programs and services are accessible to students in rural and remote locations, and offers them the flexibility to learn from anywhere, including their own home or their home campus, as long as they are connected to the internet.

NLC students do not have to relocate to pursue their post-secondary goals. They do not have to move away from family or community support systems. Even when learning from home, Northern Lakes College provides students with educational supports including access to counselling, library, and career services. High-speed internet connection is available on campus for those without access at home. Supported Distance Learning provides learners with instructor-led, online classrooms that enable live interaction with their instructor and other students. Alternatively, students can choose to listen to the recorded classes at a later time, if work or family commitments prevent them from participating in the live classes. Northern Lakes College is about more than online learning; it’s about meeting the needs of students, wherever they are.

Our Supported Distance Learning model enables Northern Lakes College to offer programming in small, rural communities where there may be only one or two students in a program. Our classrooms are built virtually, eliminating the need to have 12 to 15 students at a specific location. Students participate in online classes with their peers from throughout the service region, across the province, the country, and in various parts of the world. Providing access to education in our service region and throughout rural Alberta is particularly important in meeting rural labour force needs. Our model is designed to support students who need to balance school, work, family, and other components of their busy lives.

“Northern Lakes College is deeply committed to our stewardship region, and the long-standing relationships with the four (4) Métis Settlements, 15 First Nations, and many municipalities in the region. The College is committed to operations and programming grounded in deep respect for Indigenous learners and communities, and to providing opportunities that enable all students to continue their education, improve their employment opportunities, and enhance their quality of life, without having to leave the region”, comments President & CEO, Dr. Glenn Mitchell.

Northern Lakes College contributes to community development, leadership capacity, and vibrant communities through a unique partnership with a network of local Community Education Committees (CECs). Each community with an NLC campus has a CEC, and these committees ensure that local residents have access to the education and training suitable to their needs and goals. Committee members also promote and share College programs and news. The CECs and the College work together to meet the unique needs of communities and their learners.

NLC collaborates with business, industry, and other post-secondary institutions to help ensure the training needs of students and communities are met. This has resulted in a broad mix of programming including Academic Upgrading, Apprenticeship Trades, Business and Administrative Studies, Community Adult Learning Programs, Continuing Education & Corporate Training, Dual Credit for high school students, Health and Human Service Careers, Pre-employment Trades, resource Technology, and University Studies. NLC also works with the University of Calgary to provide the Bachelor of Social Work and Community-Based Bachelor of Education degrees to our region.

“NLC seeks to provide the most accessible, community-based learning opportunities and to find collaborative ways to support the provincial goal of increased participation in post-secondary education,” comments Dr. Mitchell. “This dedication to accessibility is why, at Northern Lakes College, we count our success one student at a time.”

All Albertans deserve access to high-quality post-secondary opportunities, regardless of the community in which they live. Through such access, students are empowered to acquire the skills, knowledge and competencies needed to succeed in their lifelong pursuits. That is why a key goal of the Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs strategy is to improve access and student experience. Northern Lakes College is a vital partner in achieving this goal. As evidenced by the college’s Supported Distance Learning model and its work with Community Education Committees, the college’s contributions to relevant, community-based education are truly commendable. These efforts improve the lives and livelihoods of Albertans, and are foundational to an inclusive, prosperous province.

– The Honourable Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education

NLC rECEIvES 150 NEW SEATS IN HIGH-DEMAND HEALTH CArE AIDE

PrOGrAM

Northern Lakes College received 150 new seats for its Health Care Aide program through the Government of Alberta’s Targeted Enrolment Expansion program. The $436,920 expansion was announced on May 25 at an event hosted by Northwestern Polytechnic in Grande Prairie, Alberta. “Northern Lakes College is proud to help educate the next generation of healthcare workers. With this funding, we can train more students to take care of the diverse population of northern Alberta,” comments Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO. “Thank you to the Government of Alberta and The Honourable Minister Nicolaides for enabling NLC to serve more students and address the shortage of health care workers in rural, northern Alberta and throughout the province.”

The Targeted Enrolment Expansion program is part of the Alberta at Work initiative, and allows for the expansion of seats in high-demand programs at post-secondary institutions throughout the province.

“There is a significant need for trained health professionals throughout our communities. The theory portion of our Health Care Aide program is delivered through Supported Distance Learning, so is accessible and provides the flexibility to meet the needs of learners,” comments Dr. Michelle Mitchell, Dean, Health, Human Services & University Studies. Our government is proud to support high-quality education and training in every corner of the province. This investment in new seats for health-care programs will allow

Northwestern Polytechnic and Northern Lakes College to continue to train and educate more nurses and aides. This is what Alberta at Work is all about: ensuring we have the workforce to support the labour market and our communities long into the future.

– The Honourable Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education

aDVaNCeD Care parameDiC stuDeNts partiCipate iN wiLDerNess

surViVaL Camp

The Northern Lakes College Advanced Care Paramedic (ACP) class annually participates in a wilderness survival camp where they learn basic survival skills. The activity is held at the NLC Marten Lakes Wilderness Camp, located 90 kilometres northeast of Slave Lake off highway 754.

Wilderness survival camp is part of the ACP program and prepares students to work in remote locations. Many graduates of the program work in heavily forested rural areas of Alberta and on medical flights transporting patients from rural locations to urban medical facilities. In the uncommon event that a practitioner might need to do so, the survival camp ensures they would know how to keep themselves and the patient alive and warm.

The location of the camp, surrounded by Boreal forest, provides students with an opportunity to disconnect from technology and connect with each other, fostering friendships that will assist students as they enter the demanding field of paramedicine. Topics discussed during the camp include the stresses of the emergency medical field, post-traumatic stress disorder, and tools for coping.

primary Care parameDiC stuDeNts partiCipate iN moCk iNCiDeNt

Northern Lakes College Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) students participate in a variety of practice scenarios throughout the year to help prepare them for emergencies they might encounter in their career, including a mock mass casualty incident. This type of incident is where the injured people outnumber the responders available for the emergency. The students learn about the different roles and how to work with other responding agencies in this type of an emergency, such as fire, police, specialty teams, etc.

On April 5, volunteers comprised of PCP alumni and fire and EMS practitioners from surrounding areas came to the Slave Lake Campus to participate in the event. They got into character with full makeup and costume and played the part of injured people to help increase the realism of the exercise for students. A bus was provided for use as a prop by High Prairie School Division and AHS Emergency Medical Services on-call paramedics participated in the learning exercise.

One of the significant learning points for the students is the importance of clear and concise communication in an emergency of this nature. The learning experience is well received by all and is a highlight of the program each year.

Over the course of the week, students participate in a series of activities, including fire building, knife and axe safety, saw building, and preparing water from natural sources for drinking purposes. Students also learn to build beds, a shelter, and a stretcher, using materials from the surrounding forest.

Comments Doug Higginson, Chair, Paramedic Programs, “Advanced Care Paramedics must often provide care in less than ideal circumstances. They must be capable of treating patients at the site of the injury or accident. Those who work in rural areas must be ready for the unexpected and able to use the resources at hand, should the need arise. The students enjoy challenging themselves to envision providing care in wilderness environments.”

“Practical exercises such as this mock mass casualty incident are so important in preparing students to be ready for the unexpected they will encounter as practitioners. We are appreciative of the participation of the various agencies involved in this training exercise,” comments Doug Higginson, Chair, Paramedic Programs.

PCP Mock Disaster 2022

ACP Wilderness Camp 2022

The High Prairie Campus is a unique building, with many environmentally-sustainable innovations, technologies, and features. This campus is constructed for the specific teaching and learning needs of the College and our students. This facility, in concert with our Supported Distance Learning delivery model, ensures access to both appropriate learning and support spaces for students. Our SDL model allows students from High Prairie and the surrounding area to connect virtually with students across the province and become a learning cohort. This means students can continue to live right here, in their home community, while getting a post-secondary education that will allow them to further their education, improve their employment opportunities, and enhance their quality of life.

HIGH PrAIrIE CAMPUS Grand Opening CELEBrATED

Northern Lakes College celebrated the grand opening of the new High Prairie Campus with a celebratory ribboncutting and campus tours on August 16. The event opened with special guest remarks provided by Deputy Mayor James Waikle, Town of High Prairie; reeve robert Nygaard, Big Lakes County; Mr. Daniel vandermeulen; Lesser Slave Lake MLA Pat rehn; Ms. Lynette Lambert, Student Member, Board of Governors; Mr. Barry Sharkawi, Chair, Board of Governors; and Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO.

– Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

L-r: Deputy Mayor James Waikle; MLA Pat rehn; Chair Barry Sharkawi; President & CEO Glenn Mitchell; Mr. Daniel vandermeulen; reeve robert Nygaard; Ms. Lynette Lambert; Mrs. Yvonne Cunningham

reeve robert Nygaard delivers congratulatory greetings on behalf of Big Lakes County.

“The High Prairie campus has purposebuilt classrooms for e-learning, health, cooking, and trades training. The skills and knowledge that students will gain through programs accessed at the High Prairie Campus will prepare them for future careers and support growth in their communities,” comments Mr. Barry Sharkawi, Chair, Northern Lakes College Board of Governors.

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees were invited to participate in guided campus tours which highlighted the LEED Silver facility’s innovative and net-zero features, including the newly-installed photovoltaic solar array.

Northern Lakes College opened the doors of the new campus in the fall of 2021. The grand opening event was postponed to a time when the community could attend.

The High Prairie Campus is one of the largest infrastructure projects in College history and the first, net-zero ready campus in northern Alberta. The campus can accommodate up to 225 students, addresses future growth plans, and increases campus energy efficiency. The Yvonne, thank you for sharing Archie with the College for so many years. There were a lot of late nights, as he travelled to CEC meetings in Peerless Lake, Cadotte Lake, Gift Lake, and many other communities. To Archie’s children – know that your dad made a difference in the lives of hundreds of College employees and thousands of students throughout the region. His legacy will live on at Northern Lakes College.

campus supports specialized training in health and trades programs, and includes the Big Lakes County Trades Classroom, Plains Trades Lab, Shell Trades Lab, and Tolko E-Learning Suite.

The $24 million project was funded by the Government of Alberta’s investment of $21.6 million, along with $2.4 million committed by corporate donors, community members, and the College. The facility positions Northern Lakes College to help meet current and future workforce demands in the region.

A recognition ceremony with the family of the late Archie Cunningham was held prior to the grand opening event. Archie was a graduate of the Education Technician program in 1972. After completing the program, he returned home to Peavine to teach Adult Basic Education in his community. Archie went on to serve as a community liaison with the College for many years and, after retirement, as Chair of the Northern Lakes College Board of Governors. His ability to bring people together, to bring the communities and their college together, was one of his strengths and a true gift. recognition plaques have been installed at both the High Prairie and Peavine campuses.

– Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

Archie Cunningham’s wife, Yvonne, along with some of their children and grand-children, stand before the dedication plaque with President & CEO, Dr. Glenn Mitchell.

Dr. Glenn Mitchell and Steve McLeod, Store Manager, High Prairie Freson Bros., stand before the plaque recognizing the contribution of the Frank & Agnes Lovsin Legacy Fund toward equipping the kitchen.

Celebrating FOX CrEEK CAMPUS GrAND OPENING

A grand opening and open house event on August 24 celebrated the opening of the Northern Lakes College Fox Creek Campus. The event opened with special guest remarks provided by Mr. Arnold viersen, Member of Parliament for Peace r iver –Westlock; Mayor Sheila Gilmour, Town of Fox Creek; Councillor r yan r atzlaff, MD of Greenview; Ms. Elizabeth Gedcke, President, Northern Lakes College Students’ Association; and Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO.

“We are excited to partner with the Town of Fox Creek to increase access to post-secondary education in the community. The NLC model provides opportunities for community members to engage in training and further education at home, so that they do not need to leave the community. If citizens can train close to home, they are more likely to work close to home and contribute to the local economy. We are eager to grow existing and new partnerships with community organizations, business, and industry. We look forward to meeting your particular training needs, so that your organizations can thrive, enabling your community to thrive,” comments Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO.

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees enjoyed refreshments and an opportunity to visit the campus and familiarize themselves with College programs and services. Northern Lakes College opened the doors of the new campus in the winter of 2021. The grand opening event was postponed to a time when the community could attend.

L-r: Councillor ryan ratzlaff, MD of Greenview; Mayor Sheila Gilmour, Town of Fox Creek; Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO; Mr. Arnold viersen, Member of Parliament for Peace river – Westlock; Ms. Elizabeth Gedcke, President, NLC Students’ Association

Councillor ryan ratzlaff delivers congratulatory greetings on behalf of the MD of Greenview.

“IT TOOK AS LONG AS IT NEEDED TO”

Welder Apprenticeship Alumni, Kenneth Halcrow

Kenneth Halcrow’s interest in the skilled trades started at the age of 12 when he attended a trades camp for children hosted by Northern Lakes College. “We got to weld plates together, and weld hot dog sticks. It was a lot of fun. The camp offered carpentry, electrical, welding, crane, and more trades for us to try out, too.”

It was welding that made the biggest impression on Kenneth – so much so that he signed up for the Dual Credit Program offered through Northern Lakes College, as soon as he entered high school. In this program, he was able to earn 21 credits towards his high school diploma while gaining welding apprenticeship hours.

“I went to a few welding shops and asked if they would let me apprentice. One place let me fill my program hours and I did well enough that they hired me after the program ended. Eventually, I got my journeyman ticket with the same shop.”

However, while Kenneth’s welding career started very early in his life, it wasn’t an easy journey. Encountering numerous obstacles along his way, Kenneth had to take his first-year test three times before ultimately passing.

“The first time that I attempted the exam, I was too young. I just didn’t take initiative and I underestimated the commitment needed for success. The second time I attempted it, I was working full time, and I was simply overwhelmed; just under too much pressure. It was a heartbreaker: I needed a 70% to pass but failed with a 68%. The third time, I was fortunate to receive educational funding from my band and passed the exam no problem. The thing was, every time I took the program, I learned something different. Every time, I asked new questions, and more questions. I focused on developing new skills, and I learned to try harder. I also had a supportive instructor. So, I have no regrets. It took as long as it needed to.”

Kenneth, 26, welds for CN railroad in a leadership position that provides exceptional financial compensation and long-term investment opportunities. Kenneth hopes to one day operate his own welding truck as part of a side business and has already begun making his dream a reality, as he saves for his future. But most importantly, he hopes to serve as a shining example of determination for his family and community.

I have three younger sisters, and I’ve been strongly recommending NLC to them. I just want to be a good mentor to others in my community. I want to do what I can to encourage others.

–

Alumni, Kenneth Halcrow

Kenneth Halcrow

OVERCOMING ADVERSITY

Business Administration Alumni, Amanda

Gach

Until attending Northern Lakes College, Amanda Gach’s school experiences had largely been negative. She’d left high school due to bullying, turning to online classes as an alternative. Years later, when her employer encouraged her to register for college classes, Amanda initially felt reluctant.

“I was working as an office manager at a spa at the time,” Amanda says. “My employer was great, but she worried about what I would do once she retired and closed down her business. She told me I should get an education, so I could build a more secure future. That seemed like such a big deal, though. I called my sister because I was so stressed and told her, ‘I can’t do this. I’m forty years old!’ and she just laughed and said, ‘Yes, you’re forty years old. But in two years, will you be a forty-two-year-old with an education, or a forty-twoyear-old with nothing?’ It made sense, so, I just went for it.”

With her employer’s support and her sister’s encouragement, Amanda reached out to the Northern Lakes College, Peace river Campus, and learned of the Business Administration program. However, it was then she discovered an additional challenge. The online high school she’d attended had not been an accredited institution, therefore she did not hold a recognized high school diploma.

“I was shocked,” Amanda recalls. “I thought that was the end, but the advisors at Northern Lakes College told me not to worry, and that I could still apply for the Business Administration program after completing the GED program.”

Happily, Amanda excelled in obtaining her General Education Diploma, and very quickly began post-secondary studies. “That was a busy time!” Amanda says. “I worked full time and kept a full-time course load, working on my education after work and on weekends. It was important to keep my full-time student status to qualify for student loans. The College was so understanding when it came to supporting me as I managed my personal life. For example, I knew I could request an exam to be rescheduled if there was a work conflict. I also had an instructor regularly take time out of her day to provide me with extra tutoring when I struggled with a certain concept. The staff at Northern Lakes College are very, very for the pupil.”

Amanda graduated with a diploma in Business Administration and successfully applied to work as a human resources assistant for a business offering competitive benefits and future career advancement. But Amanda wasn’t ready to stop there. When she learned that NLC had partnered with Portage College to offer a Business Administration Diploma in Accounting, she jumped at the opportunity.

“I’m excited to finish my Business Administration Diploma in Accounting, even though accounting isn’t exactly the field I want to work in. Still, I know the diploma will provide me with skills that are important in office environments. That’s important because my ultimate goal is to build a career in human resources. I want to assist others affected by workplace harassment or workplace violence. Because of my own experiences being bullied in high school, I know there are adults still facing the same problems, and while there’s no way to completely stop it, I want to play a part in minimizing the negative experiences people face.”

Don’t stop. You must take an active role in your own life. Just because you’re in your thirties or forties doesn’t mean you can’t go back to school. Go for what you want.

– Alumni, Amanda Gach

Amanda Gach

TURNING HOBBY INTO CAREER

Computer Network Specialist Alumni, Brett Gladue

A graduate of the first offering of the Northern Lake College Computer Network Specialist program, Brett Gladue has been interested in technology since early childhood. “It started with computer games,” Brett reports, “I started figuring out how to change or upgrade the games I played, or I’d pick apart computer equipment to try to figure out how everything worked.”

But while Brett demonstrated a talent for tech at an early age, lack of access into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields pushed Brett into a common employment industry in northern Alberta. “Since graduating high school, I worked as a labourer in the oilfield. I’d never worked in an office environment. I did secure a trade in pipefitting, but the job never felt right for me. And then, by 2019, the industry really slowed down.”

With little work, and a sense of occupational dissatisfaction, Brett was on the lookout for anything that would pay the bills. His wife, Amber, drew his attention to the new, Computer Network Specialist program offering at Northern Lakes College, and encouraged him to apply.

“Amber was really supportive and really happy for me. I received a couple of grants to help with financial costs, and then I was ready to begin the course.” There was only one problem; almost immediately after the start date, the COvID-19 pandemic effectively shut down all in-class learning. Luckily, Northern Lakes College was prepared –and so was Brett.

“I didn’t expect to do the whole course online, but NLC made distance learning very easy. Students could participate in the online classes in real time, which I and about ten other ‘regulars’ did, or they could study and view the classes on their own time. I learned a lot and took in a lot of new information.” But perhaps the best thing about the online experience was the way it was received by Brett’s school-aged son.

“His school moved online, too, so for the first time not only did he know his dad was in school, but he actually got to see me learning. A lot of the time we sat side-by-side doing our work. I hope he found it inspiring.”

Now employed as an IT Technician for the Bigstone Health Commission, Brett has encouraging advice for others in search of their calling: “Take the risk and get an education. Try something you are already interested in – look at your hobbies and find a career that is similar.”

Take the risk and get an education. Try something you are already interested in – look at your hobbies and find a career that is similar.

– Alumni, Brett Gladue

Brett Gladue

DISTANCE LEARNING SUPPORTED

Brooks

PEMAC SELECTED TO HELP MUNICIPALITIES ACrOSS CANADA MAKE STrONGEr INFrASTrUCTUrE DECISIONS

PEMAC Asset Management Association of Canada has been selected by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) to work with municipalities in their efforts to improve infrastructure spending decisions through stronger asset management. In partnership with PEMAC, Northern Lakes College delivers the Asset Management Professional and Maintenance Management Professional programs.

Strong asset management ensures local leaders are making decisions based on the best information available. Municipalities across the country face a mounting pressure to balance competing priorities - including new and existing infrastructure – on limited budgets.

PEMAC provides its Asset Management Professional certification program online to cross-functional municipal teams. This six-course program leads to a Certified Asset Management Professional designation. PEMAC will also offer interested municipal practitioners a structured course to learn about the opportunities for leveraging asset data across the lifecycle of asset management and to collaborate to publish a guide on their findings. Training will be collaborative, ensuring elected officials and staff across a number of communities are working together and learning from one another, while building their asset management capabilities.

“PEMAC, in partnership with Northern Lakes College, is pleased to offer the Asset Management Professional (AMP) education program to professionals responsible for asset management strategy from municipalities across Canada. Practitioners will have access to the latest in strategic asset management thinking, gain insight into asset management essentials in the context of ISO 5500x, all while developing the capacity to engage others and build their

knowledge and skills,” shares Cindy Snedden, Executive Director, PEMAC. “We are also excited to offer a program for municipal practitioners to explore the current practices for asset master data at the acquisition phase and propose means to leverage that data to improve service delivery and reduce lifecycle costs. The participants will work together to publish a shareable knowledge product to benefit other municipalities.”

Funding for the partner organizations’ grants is provided by Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), an eight-year, $110 million initiative funded by the Government of Canada and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. The program provides asset management training, funding and information sharing to enable municipalities to access the data needed to plan effectively.

This initiative aligns with the core values of Northern Lakes College - accessibility, collaboration, and lifelong learning. We are proud to partner with PEMAC to deliver Asset Management Professional training to assist municipalities throughout Canada to build asset management excellence.

– Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

PArTNErING WITH ATB TO OFFEr STUDENT FINANCIAL LITErACY SErIES

With the goal of providing financial literacy information and tools to students and employees, Northern Lakes College partnered with ATB Financial to offer the Stepping Stones Program, a financial literacy series.

In 2020-2021, the Student Success department at Northern Lakes College conducted consultations with students to determine their wellness and related training needs. Students expressed their desire for opportunities to increase their financial literacy knowledge. Having partnered with ATB Financial in the past to deliver financial literacy programming, Northern Lakes College is pleased that they are willing to partner once again, even customizing their presentations for the College’s specific student demographic.

“We are hopeful that these presentations will deliver targeted knowledge that our students will find useful in their everyday lives. Moreover, many of the topics explored in these sessions are relatable to students in their programs of study at NLC, such as Adult Basic Education, Academic Upgrading, and Business & Administrative Studies,” comments Dr. Ashley Oostvogels, Dean, Student Success.

The series ran from May 16 to 20 and was offered online in order to ensure access to all Northern Lakes College students and employees. Sessions included: TrANSACT, covering the ins and outs of managing a bank account; SAvINGS, exploring the importance of saving, setting financial goals, investing and interest, and types of saving plans; CrEDIT, covering types of loans and credit, the meaning of a credit score, and how to build credit; and PrOTECT, how to protect yourself and your money from scams or fraudulent activity and to keep personal information safe.

ATB Financial is committed to helping Albertans develop their financial literacy skills. Through this partnership and program, we empower students with the relevant and necessary knowledge to manage their finances effectively and achieve their financial goals.

– Justine Ricard, Branch Manager, ATB Financial, Slave Lake

Janet Miak SHOWING BY EXAMPLE

Electrician Alumni, Janet Maik

Janet Maik hadn’t thought of going back to school until the day her high school-aged daughter refused her own post-secondary education. “My husband and I had been saving for our daughter’s education for years, so when she told us she didn’t plan on going to school, we were really unhappy. When we told her she needed to go to college, she replied, ‘Why? You guys never did!’ Those words really hit home.”

Although Janet had been happily employed by Safeway for over thirty years, she was determined to show her daughter how education could improve a person’s station in life. So, Janet resigned from work. “It wasn’t a popular decision in my home. After all, I was forty-eight years old. My daughter kept saying, ‘Mom, you’re not going to do this!’” Janet recalls. “But I did it. I researched, got in touch with the organization Women Building Futures, and realised the electrical trade would be the best fit for me.”

Janet applied at many trade schools, but her application was repeatedly denied because it was submitted too close to registration deadlines. At the last minute, Janet discovered Northern Lakes College and was thrilled to hear they would do whatever they could to help her.

“My husband and I live in Edmonton, so it was a three-hour drive for me to get to the Slave Lake Campus to register and pay for classes. The earliest I could get there was the Saturday before classes started but they said that they would make it work. When I arrived at campus that morning the school was closed, but they had instructed a security guard to help me process payment and register for the program! He also showed me around student housing and helped me get set up in my dorm room.”

Within only a few days, Janet was certain she had made the right choice. She was impressed by the quality of education and found

herself engaged during every lab. She also loved the way her instructors encouraged her to follow her curiosity.

Armed with advanced education, Janet confidently asserted her place within the male-dominated industry, earning the name ‘Mama J” from guys on her crew. That’s not to say she was welcomed with open arms, however.

“I’d been working for a few years when, after introducing myself at orientation one morning, a new crewmember piped up, ‘Don’t put me with her.’ It was a joke at my expense, and the young guy rolled his eyes as he said it. Well, that was the worst move he could have made, because I insisted the foreman put him with me from then on. The first day, he was really quiet, but then he started to realize there was a lot he could learn from me. Well, now it’s been a couple years down the road and that kid still texts me weekly. He often requests me personally when we end up on the same work site.”

Janet has a wealth of advice to offer other women in the trades. “First, take care of your body – it’s the most valuable tool you have. I’ve seen it again and again: women who take care of themselves can work circles around men who don’t. So, dress for the weather, eat well, get exercise, see your doctor. Next, shoot for the stars. You can do whatever you want. There are so many more options for women than just minimum wage jobs. Get a trade and see how good it feels to be paid like a man. Last of all, fight your way in. It takes time, but you just have to stick it out because you deserve to be on that worksite as much as any man.”

But Janet isn’t just a role model for women in the skilled trades. Her determination, confidence, and can-do spirit proved inspirational for the most important young woman in Janet’s own life. Now an adult, Janet’s daughter has a vibrant career in human resources –a prospect only made possible by advanced education.

I’ve noticed while mentoring new apprentices that some schools seem to steer students only to answer test questions correctly, but what good is that? I always ask these apprentices, ‘Don’t you want to know how to fix things? How things work?’ Some schools will even have only one student perform a lab while the other students watch and take notes. Not at NLC. At NLC, everyone gets hands-on practice.

– Alumni, Janet Miak

BUILDING BLOCKS TO SUCCESS

Business Administration Alumni, Marilyn Orr

When Marilyn Orr moved to Peace river to provide a better educational experience for her teenaged children, she certainly didn’t plan on resuming student life herself. A graduate of the Northern Lakes College Office Administration Certificate program, Marilyn had been working as a payroll clerk for a trucking company.

However, once her children were settled and enrolled in their new school, Marilyn knew she had to find her own place within their new community. She reached out to her sisters for advice, and they encouraged her to consider building on her Office Administration Certificate. Both of them had found success through the Northern Lakes College (NLC) Practical Nurse program. “They said their programs had been really accessible and that they believed in me. So, I did it,” explains Marilyn. With the support of her family behind her, and having enjoyed her previous NLC experience, Marilyn decided to enrol.

Marilyn enjoyed working in an office environment, thrived in the ‘busyness’ of it, and knew she had keen organizational skills. For these reasons, she felt earning a certificate in Business Administration would best align with her life goals. To upgrade her mathematics prior to enrolling in the Business Administration program, Marilyn completed Academic Upgrading courses and particularly enjoyed learning new mathematical concepts. Once she started the Business Administration certificate program, she further realized how interested she was in working with numbers, specifically in accounting.

“As my certificate program was finishing, NLC sent out an email asking program participants if anyone would be interested in taking a Business Administration Diploma program through a partnership with Portage College. I thought, ‘yeah, I’ll try that!’ I had really enjoyed the small class sizes and I found it easy to make friends at the school. The instructors were also great – you can really talk to them, and they are very understanding.”

Upon graduating with a Business Administration Diploma in Accounting, Marilyn plans to use her new skills to manage office environments, and perhaps to move into business ownership or accredited accounting someday. reflecting upon her time in school, Marilyn comments, “My spouse was a major supporter for me, especially when I felt overwhelmed. He always encouraged me, telling me, ‘I believe in you and know you can do it!’”

go for it. If I can do it, you can too!

– Alumni, Marilyn Orr

Marilyn Orr

NEW TrOUT LAKE CAMPUS CELEBrATION

A grand opening and open house event on September 29 celebrated the opening of the Northern Lakes College Trout Lake Campus.

The event opened with special guest remarks provided by Mr. Gord Atkinson, Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council Education Authority; Ms. Treena Ward, Northern Lakes College Board of Governors; and Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO.

“The College has been committed to this region for more than 50 years, and that includes a long history with Peerless Trout First Nation. These communities built campuses in the early 1970s to house the Community vocational Centres. From day one, the relationship between the College and the communities of Peerless Lake and Trout Lake has been a true partnership. I am proud to say that this continues today,” comments Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO.

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees enjoyed refreshments and an opportunity to visit the campus and familiarize themselves with College programs and services.

Northern Lakes College began offering classes in the new campus in the spring.

The College takes great pride in helping adults continue their education and prepare for the workforce right here at home. We do this through Supported Distance Learning, and Supported Distance Teaching, which allows students to obtain their education while staying in their home community. We bring the courses and programs to you, right here. This means students can stay near family and benefit from their family and community supports.

– Governor Treena Ward, Chair of the Programs and Services Committee, Northern Lakes College Board of Governors

L-r: Gord Atkinson, Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council Education Authority; violet Cardinal, Community Education Committee; Lucille Labrecque, Board of Governors; Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO; Treena Ward, Board of Governors; Nancy Giese, Board of Governors

Governor Treena Ward

Wellness Together

National

on April 6, 2022, bringing them his message of inclusivity, resilience, and the importance of teamwork in both the workplace and social communities. Jordin is of Inuit and Ukrainian descent, and he was not only the first Inuk player in the NHL - he was the first player raised in Nunavut to play in the NHL. One of Jordin’s biggest priorities is giving back to Indigenous communities. In his presentations, Jordin promotes the creation of inclusive communities that destigmatize mental illness and addiction, creating an environment in which asking for help isn’t considered a weakness.

“These are times of great uncertainty and we are looking to young people to lead us to a better tomorrow. This will only be accomplished if we are true to ourselves, communicate with one another and recognize that everyone is fighting a fight no one else knows about. I am pleased to spend time with all of you at Northern Lakes College to share my story,” comments Jordin.

Jordin is also the author of All the Way: My Life on Ice as well as the founder of the Team Tootoo Foundation. He established the foundation in honour of his late brother, Terence, who took his own life. The foundation aims to raise awareness about addiction, youth at risk, and suicide prevention. Growing up in Canada’s north, Jordin is all too familiar with the legacy of mental illness and addiction that can impact both families and communities.

Jordin was drafted by the Nashville Predators in 2001, and went on to play with the Detroit red Wings, New Jersey Devils, and Chicago Blackhawks. He played 723 career games, accumulating 161 points, including 65 goals. Prior to his NHL career, he played in the Western Hockey League from 1999 to 2003 for the Brandon Wheat Kings. Jordin retired from the NHL in 2018. He devotes his time to his family, his foundation, and his work, bringing his message to Indigenous communities throughout Canada.

Student wellness is a priority at Northern Lakes College, and Jordin’s message of wellness as a journey we take together is inspiring. We thank Jordin for sharing his story with our students.

– Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

Hockey League legend Jordin Tootoo spoke to Northern Lakes College students

four (4) Métis Settlements, and all of the communities we serve. We respect our Indigenous learners, and we are proud of all of our students.

visit the Northern Lakes College website to increase awareness about truth and reconciliation and the legacy of residential schools. The webpage includes resources to help viewers learn

O R a N g E Sh IRT DaY National Day for truth and reconciliation

about truth and reconciliation and includes videos, podcasts, articles, and stories from organizations such as the United Nations, CBC, National Film Board, Canadian Museum for Human ights, and the National Centre for Truth & reconciliation. In the spirit of reconciliation, we invite our students, staff, faculty, and community members to view, listen, and share at northernlakescollege.ca/about-us/truth-and-reconciliation. Staff and students at Northern Lakes College wore Orange Shirts the week of September 30 to recognize the experiences of children who were taken from their families and placed in residential schools.

Métis Week,

November 14 to 18

The Métis Nation of Alberta has declared the week surrounding November 16, which is the date of The right Honourable Louis riel’s death, as Métis Week. Métis people pay tribute to riel and his visions. These visions include recognition of Métis people as a distinct group and nation, along with fairness and equality for all.

NLC marked Métis Week, November 14 to 18, offering students, employees, and community members the opportunity to learn about Métis history and culture through the creation of a resource webpage, unveiling of a traditional Métis sash, and participation in painting activities.

The Art of Being with angela hall

Angela, Aski ka na kwa ha mo wa tam (She Who Sings with The Earth), a member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, region 4, led two online, interactive paint night. Participants used the creating and creativity approach to explore and understand themselves more deeply while painting a canvas, including mindfulness skills, trauma-informed education, and Indigenous ways of knowing. The sessions covered Sacred Nature Meditation & Art.

The College has displayed a Métis sash presented to Northern Lakes College in 2004 by the Métis Settlements General Council. The sash has been framed and can be viewed in the hallway of the Slave Lake Campus.

COMMUNITY CAPACITY

Building

Over the course of the academic year, the NLC Council of Community Education Committees (CCEC) hosted a series of online workshops and training opportunities, offered free of charge, to community members throughout the Northern Lakes College service region. responding to the unique needs of the region, the CCEC sponsored 13 events.

The Council of Community Education Committees is the link between Northern Lakes College and our communities. Their efforts support the work of Northern Lakes College to increase community capacity through increased educational attainment. CCEC educational initiatives, such as the workshop series, ensure community members throughout the region have the opportunity to increase their skill level.

– Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO

In partnership with the ACHIEvE Centre for Leadership, a series of workshops focusing on leadership, workplace culture, conflict, and communication were offered. The series included workshops such as Restorative Justice: Guiding Principles for Schools and Communities, COVID Conversations: Strategies for Polarizing Interactions, and Change Management: - How to Navigate Change.

The CCEC teamed up with Digital Wellness Educator, Lisa Pender, educator, speaker, and founder of Digitally Well, to offer Choosing Balance over Burnout in the Era of Digital Overload, where participants explored the impact technology has on different dimensions of health and well-being and how the burgeoning field of digital wellness can help buffer these effects by offering evidence-based strategies to foster a healthy tech-life balance. Lisa works with businesses, post-secondary institutions, and nonprofits to provide workshops and webinars on the intersection of digital well-being and performance.

Lisa Pender, Digital Wellness Educator

General roméo Dallaire

as Force Commander of the United Nations Assistance Mission for rwanda during the 1994 genocide. He continues to work tirelessly to bring national and international attention to situations too often ignored, whether the prevention of mass atrocities and the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder on veterans and their families, or strategic solutions for lasting peace.

Marie-Claude Michaud is a leader with over 20 years’ experience working with the Canadian Armed Forces. Over those years, she and the organization she led became nationally recognized for their excellence and expertise, but at what cost? That of her own health and that of her team. From that experience, Ms. Michaud spent years developing and testing a new philosophy of leadership that puts people first: Leadership Bienveillant. The results of her experiment were extraordinary, as she recounts in her book, Leadership without Armour: The Power of Vulnerability in Management.

CCEC HOSTS GENErAL rOMÉO DALLAIrE & MArIE-CLAUDE MICHAUD LEADErSHIP WOrKSHOP

The Northern Lakes College Council of Community Education Committees (CCEC) was delighted to host Lieutenant-General (ret’d) The Honourable roméo A. Dallaire and Marie-Claude Michaud on April 28, 2022, as they presented an interactive, NLC LIvE Online™ leadership workshop.

General Dallaire and Ms. Michaud spoke about moral leadership in the face of crisis, the issue of child soldiers, and addressed how today’s ‘generation without borders’ can act locally and globally. There was an opportunity for questions from participants throughout the presentation.

General roméo Dallaire is a celebrated advocate for global human rights, as well as a highly-respected author, public speaker, international advisor, and former Canadian Senator. Throughout his distinguished military career, General Dallaire served most notably

“The insights presented by General Dallaire and Ms. Michaud inspire compassionate, values-based leadership, and result in learning for leaders at all levels,” comments Dr. Glenn Mitchell, President & CEO. This workshop was part of a series of online workshops and training opportunities, offered free of charge, to community members throughout the Northern Lakes College service region.

Leadership is not a job; it is a way of life. Leadership is not just 9 to 5 but committing and molding the future. Fundamentally, leadership is human beings committing themselves to other human beings, humbly and totally.

– Lieutenant-General (ret’d)

The Honourable Roméo A. Dallaire

Photo credit: Daniel Thibault

Kolby Backs

He [the instructor] knew what he was talking about and had lots of experience in the trade. He would help work through problems if you had an issue. He wouldn’t just leave you there struggling.

POWERING THROUGH

Power Engineering Alumni, Kolby Backs

Kolby Backs first learned of the Northern Lakes College, Dual Credit program when it was promoted by his high school. The program offered a theory component, which Kolby took online.

“(I wasn’t really prepared for) online school, for sure, but we had a really good instructor. He knew what he was talking about and had lots of experience in the trade. He would help work through problems if you had an issue. He wouldn’t just leave you there struggling.”

In two short years, Kolby earned 21 credits towards his high school diploma while gaining workplace experience and completing his Power Engineering 4th Class Certificate. The program prepared him to write the Alberta Boiler Safety Association (ABSA) 4th Class Power Engineer Certification of Competency examinations. Power Engineering is an ABSA-accredited certification governing the operation and maintenance of boilers and associated equipment in heating plants and other industrial settings.

After graduating from high school in 2019, Kolby registered for the Power Engineering 4th Class Lab Certification (Steam Lab) program at the Northern Lakes College Shell Canada Power Engineering and Technology Centre in Peace river. Unfortunately, due to the COvID-19 pandemic, the Steam Lab suspended operations. Today, Kolby continues to gain hours in the Steam Lab. He works full time for Alberta Infrastructure, completing building maintenance, while he earns his hours.

His advice to prospective students is to commit themselves to their studies, and not to be intimidated by online learning opportunities. “Make sure you’re committed to your program and your trade, because it’s easy to put off your education to the side because of distractions. The good thing about NLC is, if you do temporarily walk away (from online studies), you can catch up on your courses whenever it works best for you. The school will support you as you catch up.”

– Alumni, Kolby Backs

GETTING A HEAD START

Welder Apprenticeship Alumni, Waylon Lauck

If there was a record for the world’s youngest welder, Waylon Lauck would be a strong contender for the title. At only 17 years of age, Waylon has welded for over five years and is gainfully employed at Cam-Tac Welding in Slave Lake.

“I kind of grew up on a drilling rig,” Waylon reports, recalling his earliest interest in the trades. “My dad was a tool push and so my first encounter with welders was probably around the time I was eight years old. I was always kind of fascinated by the thought of welding and being able to see how people could make creations out of nothing.”

At 13, Waylon enjoyed his first hands-on experience when he had the opportunity to attend a welding camp hosted by Northern Lakes College, in partnership with the CWB Group (Canadian Welding Bureau). It was there he found the trade came naturally to him, and he impressed his instructors.

“My first creation was a cowbell. After the camp ended, I learned I’d been selected by the Canadian Welders Association and the Canadian Welding Bureau to receive a welder, welding cart, wire, stick electrodes, and a welding helmet and jacket to start me off.”

Waylon and his family were thrilled by the gift, as Waylon had already been saving up to buy himself the equipment. With industry encouragement behind him, he took as many shop classes as he could in junior high school and dedicated himself to welding small projects to increase his skillset.

Working with the College has been really straightforward. You fill out the paperwork and they have all the rest planned out for you. And the Dual Credit program was outstanding. The teachers at my high school and the instructors at the College were really helpful. They wanted to support me in every way possible.

– Alumni, Waylon Lauck

Once Waylon reached high school, he learned he could enter the Dual Credit program through Northern Lakes College. Through the program, he earned high school credits and found an employer. Waylon was able to earn his high school diploma a semester early and land right into a full-time welding job serving the Athabasca and Martin Hills area. Already ahead of most of his peers, he recently completed his first-year apprenticeship and plans to soon begin his second year at the Northern Lakes College, Slave Lake Trades and Technology Centre, where he will live in student housing for the duration of his labs.

Within the next five years, Waylon plans to earn his Journeyman Welder’s certificate, and hopes to be operating his own welding business, either in Alberta, or perhaps further south, in Texas. He also hopes to mentor others who are interested in entering the trade.

“I’d say to other high school kids considering entering the trades to just go ahead and build those skills. You can always pursue other careers as well, but its good to have a trade in case your plans don’t pan out. The trades will always be around. You’ll always have a skill to fall back on, whatever happens.”

Waylon Lauck

Tricia McNab

“YOU BELONG THErE AS MUCH AS ANYBODY”

Welder Apprenticeship Alumni, Tricia McNab

Tricia McNab was nervous on the first day of the Northern Lakes College, Welder Apprenticeship program. As a young woman who’d had only one prior experience holding a welding torch, she worried she might not fit into the male-dominated industry.

“Showing up to that first day of class, I was intimidated, for sure. But then I realized that there were a couple other girls in the program. In fact, it turned out there were three of us ladies, and only two guys. I couldn’t believe we outnumbered them! That alone made me feel a little more confident.”

At the time, NLC’s Welder program was brand new at the Slave Lake Campus. “There were a few kinks at first, but the teachers

were really supportive. They wanted you to succeed and put in extra effort to ensure you did. The small class sizes were also nice. In my second year, a new instructor named Ken joined the campus. Once he arrived, the program flowed exceptionally smoothly. He changed up the shop and added welders and really improved the whole system. It was a great experience. It showed me how NLC really puts in the effort to help their students succeed.”

But the support of a devoted instructor didn’t end with the development of an excellent program. After realizing the obstacles rural students faced in obtaining their “B” Pressure ticket upon the completion of their journeyperson programs, NLC brought the “B” Pressure test to Slave Lake. This meant Tricia did not have to travel to Edmonton to take the test, and her successful completion qualified her to work on pipelines.

“Bringing the exam to Slave Lake was a game-changer,” Tricia reports. “Because I could do the test at my home campus, I was able to take a few practices at it beforehand. I really appreciated that!”

Tricia reports that it was difficult to break into the industry at first, but finally caught a break when she applied at Exact Oil Field, where she continued to enjoy a career in welding for over ten years, before leaving her position to begin a family. “It wasn’t easy being the only woman in the field, working with men who didn’t expect you to be there. It was hard. very hard. I worked my butt off so my employer and every guy I worked with knew I wasn’t going anywhere. I proved to everyone I was there to work.”

While Tricia believes the industry’s culture has become more welcoming to women in the almost 20 years since she entered it, her advice to other tradeswomen is to stay the course. “Don’t quit. If someone tries to knock you down or says you can’t do something, just put your head down and do the work. Show everyone you can do it. Just keep going. You belong there as much as anybody.”

Don’t quit. If someone tries to knock you down or says you can’t do something, just put your head down and do the work. Show everyone you can do it. Just keep going. You belong there as much as anybody.

– Alumni, Tricia McNab

NLC receives Funds to Develop Micro-Credential Program

Northern Lakes College received funds to develop a microcredential program in Indigenous Administration. The funds are part of an $8 million investment by the Government of Alberta over the next two years to fund new micro-credential programs at numerous post-secondary institutions in the province. The funding was announced by the province in September.

“Northern Lakes College aims to meet the needs of learners throughout the learning continuum. Micro-credentials allow participants to access flexible programming that allows for upskilling and reskilling their competencies to meet the changing needs of industry, without incurring the cost and time commitment required of a diploma or a degree,” comments Dr. Sandy vanderburgh, vice President, Academic.

The training is intended as upskilling for existing employed persons and for entrepreneurs to increase entrepreneurial initiatives, facilitate relationship building, and foster understanding of Indigenous cultural, historical, political, and economic considerations. The training will be of benefit to any industry working with or within Indigenous communities, as well as individuals working in administrative positions within Indigenous agencies.

The program, which will be delivered through Supported Distance Learning for optimal flexibility, will be developed over the course of the winter and offerings will begin in spring 2023.

The Indigenous Administration program will include a series of nine, micro-credential courses that lead to an extension certificate. The courses will focus on Indigenous Government Administration in Canada, Indigenous relations/Cultural Considerations, and Indigenous Community Capacity Building and Economic Development. Learners will have the opportunity to take each module as a stand-alone micro-credential or stack the micro-credentials together to form an extension certificate.

– Amy Saitz, Dean, Business, Academics, Trades, and Regional Stewardship

Thank You

TO OUR DONORS

The Board of Governors of Northern Lakes College extends sincerest thanks to all the individuals, companies, and organizations who have made generous contributions, including those who wish to remain anonymous.

$1,000,000 and over

Shell Canada Limited

$100,000 - $999,999

Alberta Museums Association

Big Lakes County

Capstan Hauling Ltd.

Heart and Stroke Foundation

MD of Opportunity #17

Métis Nation of Alberta MyShak Sales & rentals

Sunrise Higher Education Foundation

Town of Peace river

$50,000 - $99,999

BP Canada Energy Company Brandt Tractor Ltd.

Canadian Natural resources Limited

Classic Hot Shot Gift Lake Development Corporation

Heartland Industries Inc. Lac la Biche Transport Ltd. Nashim, Frank and Carmen Penn West Exploration Plains Midstream Canada road Train Oilfield Ltd.

Suncor Energy Foundation Tolko Industries Ltd.

$10,000 - $49,999

3 DM Hauling & Hoisting Ltd.

AEC Oil & Gas

Alberta Health Services

Alberta Sustainable resource Development

Alberta Wilbert Sales Ltd. Anadarko Canada Corporation

Andy’s Oilfield Hauling Ltd. ArC resources Ltd.

ATB Financial B & r Eckel’s Transport Ltd.

Bearing Oilfield Service Ltd. Big Bear Energy rentals Ltd. Boyle, Damien Burlington resources Canada Ltd.

Canadian Heritage Caterpillar Inc.

Community Foundation of Northwestern Alberta Community Spirit Donation Grant Program Conoco Phillips CWB Welding Foundation D & D Well Services

Devon Canada Corporation Downton’s Transport Ltd. EJr Trucking Inc. Encana

Estate of Kathleen Marie Bennett

Faculty Association of Northern Lakes College Finning Canada Frontier Project Solutions

Garnet’s Oilfield Trucking Inc. Government of Alberta

GT’s Oilfield Hauling

Husky Oil Operations Limited

Kinetic Transportation Ltd. Ledarco Construction & Trucking Ltd.

Lesser Slave Lake Economic Alliance

Lutz, Nelson McCann’s Building Movers Ltd. Mouallem, Jamel and Debbie Mouallem, Joe and Fay Mouallem, Joey Mouallem, Joey and Melane Mouallem, Joseph North West Crane Ltd. Northern Alberta Development Council

Northern Lakes College Students’ Association

Northern Sun Exploration Inc. Norwest Construction & Management Ltd. Ouellette, rachel Overland Transport Ltd. Peace river Power Engineering Association

Pembina Pipeline Corporation Petro-Canada Oil and Gas red Deer Piling red Planet Trucking Ltd. roberts, Jesse Shultz, Catherine Staples Business Advantage Storm Energy Ltd. Taber Pipe Talisman Energy Inc. TC Energy vanderwell Contractors (1971) Ltd.

$1,000 - $9,999

3C Information Solutions Inc. 561930 Alberta Ltd. O/A ProBlast & Painting

Acton, Darcie

Alberta Association of Colleges & Technical Institutes

Alberta Energy regulator Alberta Human resources & Employment

Alberta Pacific Forest Industries Inc.

Anderson Exploration Ltd. Anderson, Brenda Anderson, Leonard Anderson, randy Anderson, Shirley ATCO Electric Athabasca County

Autobody Services red Deer Ltd. Beattie, Sandra

Bigstone Cree Nation Education Authority

Bigstone Human Services

Bigstone ventures Ltd. (BvL) Blackrock ventures Inc. Brewer, Linda

Brian D. Larson Consulting Inc. Brilling, Shannon Bruce, robert

Brunner, Patrick Bulletproof Construction Ltd. Burkholder, Harvey Burstall LLP

Wellworks Energy Services Inc. Weyerhaeuser Company Ltd. Xerox Canada Limited

Business Factory

Cardinal, Margaret Carwald redi-Mix (Slave Lake) Ltd.

CCT Controls

Central Alberta Museums Network

Chalifoux, Frank Chaulk, Paul

Corporate Express Canada Inc.Alberta Division

Council of Community Education Committees of NLC

Cunningham, Archie DETAC Corporation

Dietz, Marjorie Doug’s Gourmet Catering E-CAN Oilfield Services L.P. Eric Auger & Sons Contracting Ltd.

Everatt, Ann Ewasiuk, Danny Farrelly, richard Fofonoff, Audrey Forest Products Association of Canada

Fors, Lindy Fraser, Morine Giese, Nancy Gilbert, Trudy Gionet, Shelley Gladue, Trevor Hestbak, Brad

Highland Welding Services Holy Family Catholic regional Division #37

Human resources & Skills Development Canada Iverach, robert

Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council Keen, Susan Koch Exploration Canada, L.P. Kushner, Joanne Laboucane, Karen La Crete Support Services Lakeland College Lazarowich, Ivan LeSage, robert

Lesser Slave Lake Community Development Corporation

Lesser Slave Lake Forest Education Society

Lesser Slave Lake Indian regional Council

Lesser Slave Lake regional Housing Authority Lyons, Taralynn Mackenzie County Max Fuel Distributors Ltd. McCorrister, Gail Meatheringham, George Melnyk, Julia Missal, Mark Molloy’s Welding & Construction Ltd.

Municipal District of Lesser Slave river #124

Native Book Centre Neidig, rick Netowastanum, Connie Nicholson, Judy North American Agresso User Group Inc. Northstar Energy Oil Boss rentals Oliver, Diana Osum Oil Sands Corp. Ouellette, reg Ouellette, rene Parkland Industries Prabhakaran, vari Precision Drilling Corporation rae Wellington, Constance rasmuson, Tim regier, Donald resource Industry Suppliers Association

roil Energy Services ross, Colin rotary Club of Slave Lake rupertsland Institute Saitz, Amanda Schroder Oilfield Services Sterling Crane Synterra Technologies Ltd. Tett, Alex

Thatcher, Jennifer Tomkins, Noreen Tomkins, vivian (Mitzi) Tradewell, valerie Tully, Kenneth vandermeulen, Daniel vandermeulen, Noela vidar Forest Technologies Ltd. W.A.T. Holdings Ltd. Whitby, Lori Wilcox, Cathy Williams, Nick Willing, Sandra Woodlands Operating Learning Foundation (WOLF) Zinyk, Jim Zone 5 regional Council $500 - $999 Albert, Natasha Alberta rural Development Network Apex Distribution Inc. Armstrong, Chuck Art Gallery of Grande Prairie Associated Health Systems Beer Industrial Service Inc. Bellerose, roland Brown, Diane Cardinal, Charlotte Cherniwchan, Lionel and Tannia Cunningham, Gerald Davies, Leigh Davis, Alane Dennis, Danielle Donald rigging Heavy Lift Experts

Dreger, Jane Drummond, David Edwards, Monica Enterprise Energy Services Inc. Fors, Darrell Groom, rhonda Grouard Community Association Grouard Seniors Community Club Hendry, Willie Holick, Barb

Hommy-Bugarin, Shona Hopps, Susan Knight, Eileen

Lafoy-Caissie, Debra LeBlanc, Melane

Legal Archives Society of Alberta Livesley, Howard Lukan Inc. Marathon Canada Limited Marsh Insurance Marshall Automotive Ltd. Moore Canada, dba rr Donnelley Moore, Jennifer Muhlbeier, Donna Munro, Andrew

Murphy’s Oilfield Services Ltd. Myre, Louise Neaves, valerie Panasiuk, Brian Portobello Jobber ramjit, Wendy red Sky Developments reid-Soucy, Kathy richard, Lisa Sarai, Bernice

Schell’s Carpets (Slave Lake) Ltd. SKEG Enterprises Slave Lake Adult Education Committee

Slave Lake realty (2003) Ltd. Sloan Helicopters Sniper Communications Triple 6 Line Locating & Safety Services Ltd. van Boxtel, Angelina van Braeden, Johan West Fraser Willier, Heather-Lynn Williscroft, Gary & JoAnn

For a listing of donations under $500, visit the Northern Lakes College website.