NAIT to construct Centre for Applied Technologies in Edmonton

NAIT will proceed with construction of the Centre for Applied Technologies (CAT) at its Main Campus in Edmonton. This follows a funding commitment from the Alberta government in the provincial budget.

“We are absolutely thrilled the provincial government has chosen to support the Centre for Applied Technologies at NAIT,” said Dr. Glenn Feltham, NAIT president and CEO, in a statement. “This is a timely investment not only in NAIT, but in Alberta – one that will play an essential role in providing the talented, highly-skilled individuals needed to sustain and grow the province’s economy.”

The centre will have the capacity to accommodate approximately 5,000 students in the areas of Health, Business, Engineering Technologies and Sustainable Building & Environmental Management. Resulting vacated space will become available for other programs in high demand, including trades.

The capacity added by the new centre will help NAIT and the province meet current and emerging needs in the areas most vital to the future of Alberta.

“For 50 years, NAIT has delivered on its promise to provide students with relevant knowledge, real skills and rewarding careers,” said Feltham. “CAT is a key component in achieving our long-term vision – to be the most relevant and responsive post-secondary institution in Canada and one of the world’s leading polytechnics.”

NAIT is finalizing the centre’s design details. Construction is expected to start in 2013/14, taking several years to complete. The building will include classrooms, simulation labs, a common area and a 135-seat lecture theatre.