NAIT receives $500,000 gift from Edmonton company

NAIT, the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, has been given a $500,000 gift from Edmonton-based IVIS Inc. The funds will support applied research, the Water and Wastewater Technician program and two new bursaries.
“As one of Canada’s leading polytechnics, NAIT recognizes the value of partnerships with industry,” said Dr. Glenn Feltham, NAIT president and CEO, in a statement. “Whether we are developing programs for students or collaborating on applied research initiatives, industry is a partner in all that we do. We are grateful to IVIS for their support of NAIT.”
IVIS Inc. specializes in locating secondary utilities. Their services include high-pressure flushing, CCTV inspections of mainline/storm/sewer lines and manhole inspections, trenchless technologies and more.
“We at IVIS recognize and admire the role of NAIT in Alberta’s economy and the value of the hands-on, technology-based education the institute provides for students and apprentices,” said Dolores Eaton, IVIS Inc. president and CEO, in a statement. “We are proud to be a partner with NAIT.”
The gift includes $375,000 for applied research, $85,000 in support of the Water and Wastewater Technician program—ensuring students have access to the most up-to-date labs and equipment—and $40,000 for bursaries. The two, $1,000 bursaries will be awarded annually, one to a student in the Water and Wastewater Technician program and another to a Civil Engineering Technology student.
As part of the applied research component, NAIT faculty and students will work with IVIS to enhance the technologies used in the maintenance and repair of underground infrastructure.