A major investment is set to reshape how students learn and train at Lakeland College.
Cenovus Energy is investing $2 million into the college, funding upgrades to learning spaces and expanding opportunities for students across multiple campuses.
The funding will modernize key labs at the Lloydminster campus, enhance trades and technology spaces in Vermilion, and introduce new dual-credit programs designed to connect students directly to careers in the energy sector.
In recognition of the investment, Lakeland’s Applied Engineering Building in Vermilion will be renamed the Cenovus Energy Industrial Trades Building.
A partnership built on workforce needs
Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College, said the investment reflects what can happen when industry and education align.
“This investment is a powerful example of what’s possible when industry and education work together,” Wainwright-Stewart said.
“As a valued longstanding partner, Cenovus understands the importance of supporting students and the lasting impact that investment has on our communities and industries. Their commitment reflects a shared belief in the value of education and its role in driving economic growth.”
For Cenovus, the goal is clear: build a stronger pipeline of skilled workers.
“A strong energy sector depends on a steady pipeline of skilled, future-ready people,” said Jeff Lawson, executive vice-president, corporate development and chief sustainability officer.
“That pipeline can only be built when industry, government and post-secondary institutions like Lakeland College partner on shared workforce needs. Investments like this help ensure students are graduating with the capabilities our industry will rely on for decades to come.”
Modern spaces, real-world training
The funding will support upgrades to the Cenovus Energy Production Lab and Power Engineering Lab in Lloydminster, ensuring students train on equipment and technology that matches industry standards.
That alignment is central to Lakeland’s approach.
Providing modern, industry-aligned environments ensures students can move confidently from classroom to career, with skills that translate directly into the workforce.
(Left-right, front) Clayton Ulrich, senior field manager, conventional heavy oil operations, Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, Lakeland president and CEO, Patricia Hill, director, Lloydminster refinery and terminals. Dan Gray – The Border Pulse
Expanding pathways for students
The investment also opens new doors for younger learners through dual-credit programming.
New courses in energy and electrical trades will allow high school students to earn college credits while completing their secondary education.
That early exposure is expected to strengthen rural workforce development and give students a head start in high-demand fields.
“This celebration is about more than labs and new programs,” Wainwright-Stewart said.
“It’s about ensuring our students have the spaces to collaborate, build foundational skills and grow their expertise, so they can put their education into action and graduate ready to lead and innovate in a vital industry like energy.”
A long-standing relationship
The investment builds on years of collaboration between Cenovus and Lakeland College.
The company has previously supported initiatives such as Feast on the Farm, student awards, the Energy Centre and Residence Village, while continuing to provide practicum placements and employment opportunities for graduates.
With this latest funding, both organizations are reinforcing a shared goal: preparing the next generation of skilled workers while strengthening the region’s economy.
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