A 5 million federal investment at 4 Wing Cold Lake is fuelling serious conversations about the future of northeastern Alberta.

At a meeting held in early February, regional leaders gathered to discuss a long-term economic growth strategy tied directly to the massive construction project underway at the base. The Department of National Defence is in year two of a six-year build that will add new hangar space, maintenance facilities and upgraded utility infrastructure to support the arrival of Canada’s new fighter jets, replacing the CF-18 fleet.

City of Cold Lake officials are calling the funding a “once-in-a-generation” investment into the Royal Canadian Air Force, one that could unlock major economic opportunity across the Lakeland region.

Regional Leaders at the Table

Portage College leadership played a key role in the discussions. President and CEO Dr. Steve Price, Vice President Academic and Research Dr. Donna Feledichuk and Associate Vice President Academic Don Moore were part of the meeting.

Talks focused on how the college can expand training and learning opportunities, particularly in aerospace programming and supporting military members transitioning into civilian careers.

Other regional priorities were also discussed, including:

• Highway network improvements

• Housing demands

• The need for scheduled passenger air service

• Critical infrastructure upgrades

The goal is clear: make sure the region is ready for the growth that is already underway.

National Defence Strategy Adds Momentum

The regional meeting came just days before Prime Minister Mark Carney launched Canada’s first Defence Industrial Strategy on Feb. 17.

According to the federal government, the strategy positions Canadian industry to access $180 billion in defence procurement opportunities and $290 billion in defence-related capital investments over the next decade. The plan is projected to generate more than $125 billion in downstream economic benefits by 2035 and create 125,000 high-paying careers.

MLA Cyr says the anticipated growth tied to current and future development at 4 Wing “will drive long-term economic opportunity across Alberta and the Lakeland region through skilled trades employment, aerospace innovation, supply-chain development, and new partnerships between industry, government and education.”

Portage College Expanding Aerospace Training

Portage College is already preparing for that future.

Beginning in 2026, the college will launch a new Aircraft Structures Technician Certificate program. In-person classes will be delivered in Cold Lake at a state-of-the-art hangar located at the Cold Lake Regional Airport.

Moore described the February meeting as a “wonderful opportunity to better understand the needs and opportunities for development in northeastern Alberta.”

He has also been involved in a joint research project between Portage College and the University of Alberta exploring best practices in military training and education. The research supports stronger post-secondary engagement with military training and has drawn attention from across the country.

With federal dollars flowing and new fighter jets on the horizon, regional leaders are working to ensure northeastern Alberta is ready to seize the opportunity.