Cenovus Energy is investing $2 million in Lakeland College to modernize student learning spaces and expand dual-credit programming across the college’s campuses.

The generous investment will support upgrades to the Cenovus Energy Production Lab and Cenovus Energy Power Engineering Lab at the Lloydminster campus, along with modernization of learner spaces in the School of Trades and Technology at the Vermilion campus. It will also open new student pathways, establishing a dual-credit energy course in Lakeland’s School of Energy and a dual-credit electrical course in the School of Trades and Technology.

In recognition of this transformational investment, Lakeland’s Applied Engineering Building at the Vermilion campus will be renamed the Cenovus Energy Industrial Trades Building.

“Cenovus Energy’s investment is a powerful example of what’s possible when industry and education work together,” says Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland. “As a valued longstanding partner, Cenovus understands the importance of supporting students and the lasting impact that investment has on our communities and industries. Their commitment reflects a shared belief in the value of education and its role in driving economic growth.”

“A strong energy sector depends on a steady pipeline of skilled, future-ready people. That pipeline can only be built when industry, government and post-secondary institutions like Lakeland College partner on shared workforce needs," says Jeff Lawson, executive vice-president, corporate development and chief sustainability officer, Cenovus Energy. "Investments like this help ensure students are graduating with the capabilities our industry will rely on for decades to come.”

Providing students with modern, industry-aligned learning environments is central to Lakeland’s approach. This investment ensures students continue to have access to the same technology, equipment and spaces they will encounter in the workplace, preparing them to confidently transition from classroom to career.

Dual-credit programming is a priority for Lakeland, creating flexible pathways that allow students to explore career options and gain exposure to post-secondary learning. These courses enable high school students to earn college credits while completing their secondary education, providing them with a head start on their education and future careers. By expanding access to electrical and power engineering education in the region with Cenovus’ investment, dual-credit programming will continue to play a key role in supporting rural sustainability, helping the next generation of skilled workers and industry leaders.

“This celebration is about more than labs and new programs,” adds Dr. Wainwright-Stewart. “It’s about ensuring our students have the spaces to collaborate, build foundational skills and grow their expertise, so they can put their education into action and graduate ready to lead and innovate in a vital industry like energy.”

Cenovus Energy’s longstanding partnership with Lakeland College helps ensure programs remain responsive to evolving workforce needs. Over the years, Cenovus has supported key initiatives including Feast on the Farm, student awards, the creation of the Energy Centre and Residence Village, and continues to provide practicum opportunities while employing many Lakeland graduates.

Lakeland’s School of Trades offers seven apprenticeship and four pre-employment programs, including electrician and pre-employment electrician. The School of Energy offers a process and power engineering diploma, 3rd Class power engineering certificates, and an online 4th Class power engineering certificate, as well as other professional training in energy.

 

Photo: (Left-right, back) Dave King, Lakeland College dean of trades and technology, Kate Svidrak, Lakeland alumna and current Cenovus employee, Craig Party, senior manager, operations and maintenance, Adam Waterman, chair of the Lakeland College Board of Governors, Angela Minish, dean of business and energy. (Left-right, front) Clayton Ulrich, senior field manager, conventional heavy oil operations, Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland president and CEO, Patricia Hill, director, Lloydminster refinery and terminals.