Slave Lake, Alberta (April 19, 2023): Northern Lakes College is the proud owner of a shiny new semi!  The truck will be used to provide Class 1 Driver Training within the region. The truck will enable Northern Lakes College to offer Mandatory Entry Level Training (MELT), the standardized driver training program implemented by the Government of Alberta to improve road safety. The training is mandatory for commercial Class 1 drivers.

Class 1 MELT includes components of classroom theory and both in-yard and in-cab training. In-yard training includes activities that occur around the vehicle when not in motion, such as vehicle inspections. In-cab training hours are spent behind the wheel, either on-road or off-road, in various conditions including reversing, and connecting and disconnecting the truck and trailer.  

“There is an identified need for Class 1 drivers in our region and across the province. Northern Lakes College is always looking for ways to support the local economy. Ensuring the availability of this training in-region means increased accessibility for students,” comments Amy Saitz, Dean, Business, Academics, Trades & Regional Stewardship.

The College anticipates there will be demand for the program from both students looking to get into the trucking industry, and employers who need drivers trained and licensed to operate trucks for supply and delivery of a variety of products.

For information about MELT at Northern Lakes College, contact tradesaccount@northernlakescollege.ca.

To check out the full complement of driver training available, visit northernlakescollege.ca/cect.

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Northern Lakes College provides flexible educational opportunities through innovative delivery. With accessibility as a cornerstone value, we provide quality educational programs and services. NLC’s innovative Supported Distance Learning (SDL) and Supported Distance Teaching (SDT) models include unique online delivery options such as NLC LIVE Online™ and NLC Anytime, Anywhere. SDL provides learners with the flexibility to balance work, home, and education, so that they can 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