NWP and CDN Ink 8-Year Deal to Create The CDN Electrical Education Centre

Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) and CDN Controls, announce a new partnership agreement that will advance hands-on learning and reinforce skilled trades pathways through to 2033.

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. 

“We are grateful for this timely support, which will give students hands-on learning experiences and open doors to careers in the skilled trades," says Dr. Vanessa Sheane, NWP President and CEO.

“When community partners step forward, they help shape a pipeline of skilled talent that will drive innovation and economic growth across the province."

Equipped with modern labs, fully functional electrical systems, simulation tools, and collaborative workspaces, the nearly 5000 sq ft centre will allow students to practice real-world skills in a safe, controlled environment. The centre is part of NWP’s continued skilled trades expansion initiatives and recent enhancements to the Electrician, Millwright, and Instrumentation programs.  

“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," says CDN CEO Dean Fraser. “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.”

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to practical, student-centred learning and will extend beyond campus thanks to CDN and the Hoffman Family's simultaneous investment in NWP’s new Skilled Trades Dual Credit pathways. Through Dual Credit programming, high school students can begin apprenticeship-style training that counts toward both high school and post-secondary credentials.

“We’re deeply grateful for this collaborative partnership that supports the skilled trades shared vision for the future of education and industry,” says Cindy Park, NWP’s Vice President of External Relations. “The support is helping us create dynamic learning spaces and experiences that prepare students to succeed and strengthen the communities we serve.”

Learn more about NWP’s Skilled Trades future at NWP.me/ToolsforSuccess