Powering Through

Kolby Backs first learned of the Northern Lakes College, Dual Credit program when it was promoted by his high school. The program offered a theory component, which Kolby took online.

“(I wasn’t really prepared for) online school, for sure, but we had a really good instructor. He knew what he was talking about and had lots of experience in the trade. He would help work through problems if you had an issue. He wouldn’t just leave you there struggling.”

In two short years, Kolby earned 21 credits towards his high school diploma while gaining workplace experience and completing his Power Engineering 4^th Class Certificate. The program prepared him to write the Alberta Boiler Safety Association (ABSA) 4^th Class Power Engineer Certification of Competency examinations. Power Engineering is an ABSA-accredited certification governing the operation and maintenance of boilers and associated equipment in heating plants and other industrial settings.

After graduating from high school in 2019, Kolby registered for the Power Engineering 4^th Class Lab Certification (Steam Lab) program at the Northern Lakes College Shell Canada Power Engineering and Technology Centre in Peace River. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Steam Lab suspended operations. Today, Kolby continues to gain hours in the Steam Lab. He works full time for Alberta Infrastructure, completing building maintenance, while he earns his hours.

His advice to prospective students is to commit themselves to their studies, and not to be intimidated by online learning opportunities. “Make sure you’re committed to your program and your trade, because it’s easy to put off your education to the side because of distractions. The good thing about NLC is, if you do temporarily walk away (from online studies), you can catch up on your courses whenever it works best for you. The school will support you as you catch up.”

Learn More about Dual Credit Options at NLC »
Learn More about Resource Technology Programs at NLC »