Lakeland College's interior design technology (IDT) program is thrilled to announce its recognition for Excellence in Education by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) for the ninth time. 

The prestigious award honours programs that excel in nurturing student talent and fostering industry-ready skills. Winners are selected based on student submissions to the annual NKBA student design competition. Entries are evaluated on criteria such as visual appeal, creativity, and adherence to design principles. This year’s student design winners will be announced later this year.

“Our program prioritizes preparing our students to excel in the industry once they’ve graduated,” says Rochelle Horne, program head. “Through hands-on learning, industry connections, and practicum experiences, we ensure we’re not just teaching our students the finer points of design – we’re also setting them up for success. Being acknowledged for Excellence in Education by such an important organization validates our efforts and confirms that what we’re doing is working. We are honoured to be recognized.”

Lakeland’s IDT program, located at the Vermilion campus, is a two-year diploma program emphasizing experiential learning. It covers design fundamentals, drafting, and space planning, all conducted within a studio setting. Small class sizes foster ample opportunities for mentorship, while the program also prioritizes networking and forging industry connections both locally and internationally, complemented by practicum placements.

“We are deeply grateful for our ongoing relationship with the NKBA,” says Horne. “With their support, especially from the Prairie Provinces Chapter, our students are welcomed into the industry as emerging professionals.”

In 1999, Lakeland became the first Canadian post-secondary institution accredited by the NKBA, and the college maintains founding member status. For the past 18 years, Lakeland students have consistently excelled in the NKBA’s student design competition. Lakeland was named College of the Year by the NKBA in 2017 and 2019, the last year the designation was awarded.