Community & Industry

Not only are partnerships the underpinning of innovation, economic growth, and knowledge exchange, they are essential to regional success. With the benefit of collaboration, we are better able to amplify results, capitalize on opportunity, and meet ever-changing needs across northern Alberta. 

Through two decades of support for the ThinkBIG Service Technician program, Finning Canada has helped students at Northwestern Polytechnic launch rewarding careers in the heavy equipment industry.

Powering Opportunities

For 20 years, the ThinkBIG Service Technician program has given students the chance to combine technical training with hands-on experience, unlocking real opportunities across Alberta and beyond.
Developed in partnership with Finning Canada and Caterpillar Inc., the 20-month program blends eight-week blocks of classroom learning with eight-week paid work placements at Finning locations.

“NWP prides itself on fostering impactful partnerships that drive innovation and opportunity within our region and beyond,” says Cindy Park, NWP Vice-President External Relations. “The ThinkBIG  service Technician program exemplifies our collaborative approach to creating transformative educational experiences where students can not only gain comprehensive technical expertise, but also forge invaluable connections within the industry.”

With Finning’s investment in training, equipment, and mentorship, students access the skills and experience they need to succeed from their first day on the job.

Students in Action

Scott Erwin, a member of the inaugural 2004 ThinkBIG class, credits the program with opening doors early in his career. "The smaller classes, the mentorship, the time in the field — it made all the difference," he says. 

"It wasn't just about learning skills. It was about building confidence and a future."

Today, Erwin supports technicians across Western Canada through Finning’s technical service branch — a journey that began with the possibilities unlocked at NWP.

Building Futures

The need for skilled technicians continues to grow across Western Canada’s construction, energy, and mining sectors.

In response, Northwestern Polytechnic and Finning Canada have expanded the ThinkBIG program to a third cohort, creating even more opportunities for students to access career-focused training close to home.

Thanks to Finning’s enduring partnership, students continue to step into Alberta’s workforce equipped, experienced, and ready to lead.

We are proud to celebrate Finning Canada’s lasting commitment to education and student success. Together, we are unlocking possibilities for students and building stronger futures across our communities.