The Alberta Government made an announcement during the Speech from the Throne on March 3rd that it would build Canada's first Pipeline Training Centre.

"With the support of industry partners, your government will build Canada's first and only dedicated pipeline training facility to train more heavy equipment operators, and those who work in pipeline construction and land reclamation," said Doug Horner, Minister of Finance.

Portage College has been working diligently with industry and local stakeholders for over 26-months on the planning and implementation of the Pipeline Training Centre. The College has already invested 2.8 million dollars on equipment, planning and infrastructure at their 130-acre Boyle campus location.

"We're very happy about the decision our government has made," said Dr. Trent Keough, CEO and President of Portage College. "We've worked very hard to make this project a reality and we look forward to holding future discussions with the government."

The speech addressed the government's desire to continue working on innovative new ideas and invest in long-term success. With growing oilfield production and more pipeline proposals on the horizon, the government addressed a major concern by committing to building a centre that specializes in pipeline safety.

"The decision to build this centre shows that our government is committed to being world leaders in pipeline safety and environmental reclamation," Keough said. "With government and industry support, Portage College is committed to making this project a reality."