Lakeland College received a $2.7 million donation from a private donor, marking the largest philanthropic gift in the college's 104-year history.

The private donation of three acres of industrial land, complete with two large buildings, enables Lakeland to grow its capacity and create increased student-managed learning opportunities for students.

“We are incredibly thankful to receive this extraordinary and historic gift. It will help us increase access to our programs so more students can pursue their goals and succeed in their chosen fields,” says Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president of Lakeland College. “The investment of these donors will pay dividends for many including our students, our college and our region.”

Located west of Lloydminster in County Energy Park, the private donation allows Lakeland to increase its presence in the community with this valuable property near Highway 16.

In a written statement, the private donors say they’re confident Lakeland will transform the property into exceptional educational facilities. “We’re honoured to have the opportunity to help current students and future generations achieve their educational and professional goals through our combined efforts with Lakeland.”

The street rod technologies (SRT) program will move from the Vermilion campus to the new site. Housed in a 12,000 sq. ft. building, enrolment for the SRT program will expand to accommodate 20 students in the fall. In its current facility, SRT enrolment is capped at 14.

Almost 40 per cent larger than its current space, SRT’s new home features an office suite, enclosed classroom space, mezzanine viewing deck, three bays, and a 10-tonne overhead crane that spans the length of the shop, as well as frame straightening hooks. The new building will also have an automotive paint room and paint mixing booth installed, similar to the current SRT shop. Lakeland will retrofit the facility in the coming months to suit the needs of the SRT program.

The driver training program is already based in the second building, which measures 9,600 sq. ft. It features four heated bays to store the college’s two semi-trucks and trailers, which helps to maintain the value of the equipment.

SRT students learn to customize and restore vehicles in this one-year certificate program, which is offered by the School of Trades and Technology. They learn about vehicle design, electrical systems, frames, suspension and more. Using specialized tools, students develop valuable restoration skills in metal shaping, custom painting and welding, among others. SRT graduates can challenge the autobody prepper apprenticeship exam to continue as an apprentice in this sector. The driver training program covers the Class 1 or 3 license for Alberta or Saskatchewan with qualified instructors who provide one-on-one training.

 

Photo: Located in County Energy Park west of Lloydminster, Lakeland's new industrial site will house the street rod technologies program in the fall, along with the driver training program.