Tools for Success Northwestern Polytechnic is focused on delivering a timely skilled trades solution for students, communities, and industries. Industry Investment Partnership Profile The CDN Electrical Education Centre, a Hoffmann Family of Companies Community Commitment, will carry the naming rights for NWP’s state-of-the-art Electrical Education Centre on the Grande Prairie campus, and will serve as lead supporter for Skilled Trades Dual Credit Pathways, giving high-school students an early jumpstart on their careers in the electrical and instrumentation fields, among others.Read the News Release “This partnership with Northwestern Polytechnic represents an investment in the next generation of skilled tradespeople who will drive our industries forward and strengthen Alberta’s economic future. We share NWP’s commitment to equipping students with the hands-on skills and experience needed to meet growing industry demand. Together with Hoffmann Family of Companies, we believe in making purposeful investments that deliver lasting value to the communities where we live and work. We’re proud to support this initiative and excited to see the impact it will have across the Peace region.” Dean FraserCDN CEO "The CDN Controls investment in Skilled Trades Dual Credit Pathways at Northwestern Polytechnic creates opportunity for students in our community. These innovative partnerships between industry and education allow students to earn post-secondary credit while still in high school and get an early start on a career in the trades. Our school division is grateful to CDN Controls for their community leadership and helping to provide opportunities for youth in our community." Alexander (Sandy) McDonaldSuperintendent of Schools, Grande Prairie Public School Division Skilled Trades Impactful Grande Prairie Hub NWP is consolidating apprenticeship and trades programs at our Grande Prairie campus to create a single hub with modern facilities, coordinated support, and stronger connections to industry.This timely and continuous expansion will provide high-quality training, help address workforce gaps in the north, and strengthen opportunities for students and communities alike.NWP is looking forward to welcoming even more trades professionals starting Fall 2026, including the following new campus additions:Automotive Service TechnicianCarpenterHeavy Equipment TechnicianMotorcycle MechanicPipe trades (plumber, gasfitter, steam/pipefitter)Welder Apply Today Expanding Skilled Trades Skills Deficit With a growing workforce gap across North America, and a challenging labour market outlook within Northern Alberta’s signature industries, Northwestern Polytechnic is taking action.Together with our local partners and industry champions, we have collaboratively identified emerging needs and formulated a strategic approach that will help address the persistent talent shortages that continue to impede hiring efforts. Expanding Skilled Trades Building Prosperity Northwestern Polytechnic is seeking a $69.9M investment from the Government of Alberta to support high-priority infrastructure development on our Grande Prairie campus.This tactical financial outlay will supercharge NWP’s capacity to train the workforce of the future, and deliver valuable returns within Alberta for years to come.Northwestern Polytechnic’s new Skilled Trades Centre will contribute to enhanced:Skilled trades awareness and explorationRegional competitivenessEconomic growth and long-term sustainabilityEmployability and labour productivityIndustry innovation and advancement Productive Environments Northwestern Polytechnic recognizes the importance of carving out new spaces for hands-on training and world-class skill development. Our goal is to design and deliver a new net-zero building, totalling over 50,000 square feet, by 2028. Grande Prairie Trades Centre The new 50,000 sq ft facility will support enhanced training across disciplines, as well as evolving industry-specific needs within Continuing Education. This development will build on current Electrician, Millwright, and Instrumentation program enhancements, while optimizing our Grande Prairie campus footprint and increasing access for more than 600 additional students annually. Development Highlights Highly specialized Construction hub that will empower advanced skill development. Be it for residential dwellings or developing community infrastructure, students will hone their craftsmanship skills in a safe, supportive, and hands-on workshop. This buzzing training facility will provide added space for apprenticeship, diploma, and micro-credential students. Hands-on Opportunity Working with our local industries, surrounding communities, and government partners, we are committed to attracting, training, and retaining the next generation of skilled trades professionals in Northern Alberta. Please reach out to President@NWPolytech.ca for more information about this essential investment in our collective future.