Portage College has launched its first aerospace training program, creating a new pathway into Alberta’s aviation and defence industries from its Aerospace Campus at the Cold Lake Regional Airport.

The Aircraft Structures Technician Certificate will provide students with hands-on training in aircraft construction, structural repair, sheet metal fabrication, composite materials, blueprint reading, aviation safety and quality assurance.

Alberta Minister of Advanced Education Myles McDougall recently visited Cold Lake to mark the program’s launch and tour the new campus alongside college, municipal and regional representatives.

Training tied to industry needs

Approved by Transport Canada, the program is designed to give graduates the technical knowledge and practical experience needed to pursue Aircraft Maintenance Engineering certification and careers in Canada’s aviation sector.

Although the program was developed with a military pathway in mind, it is open to both civilian learners and members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Students will train in a purpose-built facility at the Cold Lake Regional Airport, near 4 Wing Cold Lake and within a region seeing growing investment in aerospace, defence and aviation-related development.

Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr said the program represents an important milestone for Portage College and northeastern Alberta.

“The new Aircraft Structures Technician Certificate represents an exciting milestone for the College and for northeastern Alberta,” Cyr said.

Building a local aerospace workforce

The program’s launch comes as Canada prepares to introduce the F-35 fighter fleet and 4 Wing Cold Lake enters a major period of growth and modernization.

Developing a local pool of trained aerospace workers is expected to help support both civilian employers and Canada’s defence sector while creating new career opportunities for students in the region.

Cyr said building that workforce will be important as Cold Lake’s aerospace and defence sector continues to expand.

“By strengthening the pipeline of skilled aerospace professionals, this program will help ensure Alberta remains a key partner in supporting the Royal Canadian Air Force and Canada’s national defence capabilities for years to come,” he said.

The training could also help employers address demand for skilled tradespeople in aircraft maintenance, manufacturing and structural repair.

Years of collaboration behind campus

The Aerospace Campus was developed through collaboration between Portage College, the City of Cold Lake, governments and industry partners.

Cyr said the project demonstrates what can be accomplished when educational institutions, municipalities, industry and government work toward a shared goal.

Portage College President and CEO Dr. Stephen Price, Acting Vice-President of Academic and Research Don Moore, Dean of Trades and Technology John Melo and other faculty and staff were recognized for helping bring the program forward.

Cyr also acknowledged Cold Lake Mayor Bob Mattice, city council, administration and the project’s regional partners.

First students to begin training

The first class will become the inaugural group of students to train through Portage College’s aerospace program.

The college’s expansion into aerospace education is intended to respond to changing workforce demands while allowing students to pursue specialized training without leaving northeastern Alberta.

Cyr said the program will help create high-value careers, support future investment and strengthen the region’s role in Alberta’s growing aerospace and defence economy.

“The future of aerospace in Alberta is bright, and Cold Lake is helping lead the way,” he said.