A new aviation training program in Cold Lake has officially been cleared for takeoff, with Portage College receiving Transport Canada approval for its Aircraft Structures Technician program.

The certification marks a major step forward for aviation training in northeastern Alberta, confirming the program meets national standards required to train students for careers in aircraft maintenance and structural repair.

Classes are set to begin in fall 2026, with early interest already coming from the Canadian Armed Forces. Portage College is expected to train members of the Royal Canadian Air Force in its first intake.

“Receiving recognition from both Transport Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces highlights the quality of this program for our students, our region and the broader aviation sector,” said Don Moore, Associate Vice President Academic at Portage College.

Training tied directly to Cold Lake’s aviation roots

The program will be based out of a newly renovated hangar at the Cold Lake Regional Airport — a facility acquired and upgraded through a partnership between the City of Cold Lake and Portage College.

Students will train in both classroom and hands-on environments, focusing on inspecting, repairing and overhauling aircraft structures, including both metal and composite materials.

Moore said the program responds directly to growing demand across both civilian and defence aviation sectors.

“We continue to hear about the growth in aviation, both from the civilian and the defence sector, and are eager to begin training the next generation of aircraft maintenance engineers,” he said.

City investment driving long-term growth

The City of Cold Lake has played a major role in bringing the program to life, contributing funding toward the facility, curriculum development and future expansion.

Over the past five years, the City has invested:

• $165,000 toward purchasing the hangar
• $1.4 million for renovations and expansion
• $88,000 toward curriculum development
• 2.37 acres of land for future program growth

Mayor Bob Mattice said the program aligns naturally with Cold Lake’s long-standing connection to military aviation.

“Aircraft Maintenance Technicians are in great demand internationally and, with our city’s long history in military aviation, it is only fitting that we are able to supply some of the labour that Canada’s aviation industry requires,” Mattice said.

He added that the program will open doors for students both locally and nationally.

“Graduates from this program will be able to work across our country in an exciting industry and, if they choose, help defend Canada and her allies while working right here in Cold Lake,” he said.

Pathway to careers in aviation

With Transport Canada approval in place, graduates will be eligible to pursue certification toward becoming Aircraft Maintenance Engineers — a designation widely recognized across the aviation industry.

The program is scheduled to begin August 31, 2026, with applications open until August 15.