High Prairie, Alberta (October 22, 2020): NLC was proud to tour Big Lakes County Council members and representatives from the office of MLA Pat Rehn through the new High Prairie Campus on Friday, October 16^th. Big Lakes County is a major donor to the project, with a generous contribution of $100,000, pledged in the fall of 2019.

Council members were anxious to get a look at the LEED Silver, net-zero ready building which has been going up in the community of High Prairie over the last two years. Senior Director of Facilities and Ancillary Services, Paul Chaulk, pointed out the features of the facility, including geo-thermal heating and cooling, expandable spaces for future growth, and many comfortable areas for students to learn, collaborate, and socialize. Members of Council were pleased to be able to step into the Big Lakes County Trades Classroom, a space dedicated to the instruction of trades programs.

“Big Lakes County is happy to support the construction of a facility that will train and retain a workforce in the north,” comments Reeve Richard Simard. “As recent developments have demonstrated, environments change and upskilling and reskilling become necessary. This facility will ensure the region has access to training to keep the regional economy strong.”

“We are appreciative of the support of Big Lakes County and are proud of the teaching and learning space the new campus will provide to NLC students and the region. This campus is comparable to learning facilities in urban centres and it is wonderful that learners in the north will have access to such a space,” comments NLC President & CEO, Glenn Mitchell.

The $24 million project is funded by the Government of Alberta’s investment of $21.6 million, along with $2.4 million committed by the College. The new High Prairie Campus will accommodate up to 225 students, address future growth plans, meet employment demands in the region, and increase campus energy efficiency. Construction of the campus is nearly complete. The College expects to begin fitting the space with furniture and technology soon and to welcome students, staff, and community members in early 2021.  

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A distance learning college, Northern Lakes College provides the most accessible and flexible educational opportunities through innovative delivery. Utilizing its unique Supported Distance Learning (SDL) model, NLC assists 5,000 students annually to continue their education, improve their employment opportunities, and enhance their quality of life. Committed to its communities in northern Alberta and to its students, wherever they may be, NLC collaborates with business, industry, and other post-secondary institutions to benefit students and communities. Explore at www.northernlakescollege.ca.

For additional information contact:

Rachel Ouellette
Director, External Relations, Marketing & Communication
Office of the President
Northern Lakes College 
news@northernlakescollege.ca