Portage College and Lac La Biche County target community growth with exciting partnerships

New agreement between College and County part of continual efforts to attract new residents and investment

Lac La Biche County and Portage College continue to partner to advance our community’s position as the ideal place to live, work, and invest in rural Alberta. 

For more than 55 years, Portage College has offered post-secondary education responsive to demand and the local economy’s needs, including vital healthcare credentials for paramedics and nurses. They have also contributed to Lac La Biche County’s vibrancy through Voyageurs athletic programs, Indigenous events and workshops in the wanîskah room, and unique amenities like the Museum of Aboriginal Peoples’ Art and Artifacts. With its educational, social, and cultural activities animating Lac La Biche County, Portage College gives our municipality a unique college-town feel. 

Given its central position as our region’s educational, cultural, and economic hub, Lac La Biche County is prioritizing further partnerships with Portage College. In addition to existing agreements like our Law Enforcement Training Centre collaboration and the County’s annual sponsorship of the Voyageurs athletics programs, the two organizations are exploring further housing, athletics, economic development, and training initiatives. These are based on what our organizations believe to be the four pillars of successful communities: top-quality healthcare, excellent education programs, various job opportunities, and amenities that enhance quality of life. 

As a recent example of that focus on community-building, Lac La Biche County and Portage College signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance educational opportunities for County employees and elected officials. The partnership allows enrollment in one free course annually, selected from a diverse range of micro-credentials, spanning from permaculture to business. 

Lac La Biche County and Portage College will announce more on other developing partnerships soon. 

“The foundation of any successful community is based on four pillars: healthcare, education, job opportunities, and amenities that enhance the quality of life. Portage College is a valuable partner that helps Lac La Biche County Council build on these foundations. I am confident that our joint commitment to attracting new residents, training County employees, and focusing on local healthcare will make us an even stronger economic corridor in northeastern Alberta.” 

– Mayor Paul Reutov, Lac La Biche County 

“Portage College is honoured to collaborate with Lac La Biche County in these forward-thinking initiatives.  Our shared commitment to lifelong learning and community development is at the core of this partnership,  and we are excited about the positive impact it will have on the area.” 

– Randolph Benson, Chair, Portage College Board of Governors