Portage College is moving forward with plans to build the country's first Pipeline Training Centre in Boyle, Alberta. With the recent announcement of recommended approval for the Northern Gateway Pipeline, Portage College is positioned to respond to the increased need to build a Training Centre for workforce development.

"The time is now to build this one-of-a-kind Pipeline Training Centre," said Dr. Trent Keough, President and CEO of Portage College. "Alberta's oil production is rapidly expanding, and this Centre is crucial to establishing Alberta's position as a global leader in pipelining."

The Pipeline Training Centre sits on 435,600 ft2 of land just outside of Boyle, combining patented simulation technologies, and boots-on-the-ground training. The focal point of this facility houses a closed loop pipeline that simulates oil spills using non-toxic materials to give students and working professionals an opportunity to develop important spill response and technical skills.

"Portage College is committed to establishing a culture of safety in the emerging oil and gas industry," Keough said. "The decision on Northern Gateway is just one of many major pipeline projects in the province, increasing the demand for a site that teaches and demonstrates pipeline safety.

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