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Table of Contents

Yours, Mine, Ours—Aboriginal Education @ Keyano

College was produced by Keyano’s Marketing &

Communications team and JuneWarren-Nickle’s

Energy Group in partnership with Keyano’s Aboriginal

Education department.

KEYANO COLLEGE

Publisher – Russell Thomas

Editor & Project Manager – Heather Rice

Writer – Kiran Malik-Khan

Contributors – Leo Jacobs, Cathy Davis-Herbert,

Sue Schellenberg, Sharon Shultz, Natasha John-Hurford

Graphic Design Coordinator – Robyn Shilling

Photographer – Sean McLennan

JUNEWARREN-NICKLE’S ENERGY GROUP

President & CEO – Bill Whitelaw bwhitelaw@junewarren-nickles.com

Publisher – Agnes Zalewski azalewski@junewarren-nickles.com

Editorial Direction – Stephen Marsters smarsters@junewarren-nickles.com

Director of Sales – Rob Pentneyrpentney@junewarren-nickles.com

Editor – Chaz Osburn

Editorial Assistance – Marisa Kurlovich, Kelley Stark

Graphic Designer – Cathlene Ozubko

OfficesCalgary Downtown:#300, 999 - 8 St SWCalgary, AB T2R 1N7Tel: (403) 209-3500Fax: (403) 245-8666 Toll-free: 1-800-387-2446

Calgary North:5735 - 7 Street NE,Calgary, AB T2E 8V3Tel: (403) 265-3700Fax: (403) 265-3706

Edmonton:6111 - 91 Street NWEdmonton, AB T6E 6V6Tel: (780) 944-9333Fax: (780) 944-9500Toll-free: 1-800-563-2946

5 Message from Keyano College President

6 Messages from MLA, MP

7 Community

8 Aboriginal Education @ Keyano College

11 Map of Wood Buffalo

12 Campuses

13 Fort McMurray

14 Fort Chipewyan

16 Learning Centres

16 Conklin

18 Fort McKay

19 Gregoire Lake

19 Janvier

21 Programming

25 Aboriginal Student Services

26 Aboriginal Scholarships and Awards

27 Community Investment

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Message fromKeyano College President

We are very proud to present the first edition of Yours, Mine,

Ours—Aboriginal Education @ Keyano College, a document

that highlights our commitment to the Aboriginal community

in the Wood Buffalo region.

Roughly translated in Cree, Keyano means ‘Yours, Mine, Ours’ and this is, quite literally, how we view our College. Keyano College exists to serve the educational training needs of Wood Buffalo—its people, communities and industry. We cannot succeed alone. It is only through the continued development of relationships and partnerships with these key stakeholders that we are able to keep our finger on the pulse of the region, and proactively respond to existing and emerging needs.

One area of particular focus continues to be our commitment to the Aboriginal communities in northeastern Alberta. Keyano not only operates learning centres or campuses in these communities, but we are making post-secondary education more accessible and flexible than ever before.

Our Learning Centres provide access to online learning tools such as eCampusAlberta and Alberta-North, we continue to develop online versions of our programming such as Aboriginal Entrepreneurship, and we are offering more and more community based programming such as the Construction Safety Training System course which is now offered in Fort McKay.

We’ve also introduced new programming such as the Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program, which aims to help Aboriginal people enter and succeed in an apprenticeship

trade; the Environmental Monitoring Program, which positions students to take advantage of the many opportunities that exist in our region; and the Construction Craft Labourer Employability Program, which prepares students for entry into the lucrative construction field and provides laddering possibilities to apprenticeship trades.

Degree programming options are also increasing at Keyano. Students continue to take advantage of the highly successful Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but now new degree completion opportunities in Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Social Work are also a reality at our Clearwater Campus.

In response to the number of emerging opportunities and initiatives, Keyano College is especially proud to have created a new position in External Relations—Associate Vice President of Aboriginal & Government Relations. Leo Jacobs, our former Aboriginal Education Chair, moved into this role in 2008 and is responsible for four key areas: Aboriginal Initiatives, Government Relations, Partnership & Strategic Development and Fundraising.

It is through the development of exciting and unique initiatives, such as those mentioned above, that Keyano College continues to foster student success and community development. I hope you enjoy this first glimpse into the exciting and continually evolving world of Aboriginal Education @ Keyano College.

Jim Foote

President, Keyano College

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Message fromGuy BoutilierCongratulations to Keyano College on its first edition of Yours, Mine, Ours — Aboriginal Education @ Keyano.

Guy Boutilier, MLAFort McMurray—Wood Buffalo

Dear Friends,

Keyano College has been an important part of our community for decades, providing training, support, and opportunities for so many over the years. As a lifetime resident of Fort McMurray and former instructor at the College, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations on this inaugural edition of “Yours, Mine, Ours” and thank Keyano College for all they have done for the people of Wood Buffalo and Northern Alberta.

Sincerely,

Brian Jean, MPFort McMurray—Athabasca

A message from your Member of Parliament

Fort McMurray102-9912 Franklin Avenue

Fort McMurray, AB T9H 2K5780.743.2201 877.532.6272

Athabasca5101-50th Avenue

Athabasca, AB T9S 1T2780.675.8100 877.710.8100

Ottawa324 West Block

Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6613.992.1154

jeanb@parl.gc.cawww.brianjean.ca

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CommunityLush boreal forest, wandering swift rivers, enticing sandy dunes,

magnificent northern lights and smiling friendly people; these are

not always the words people hear about Fort McMurray, Alberta

or the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, but these words

are a true reflection of our beautiful region.

PeopleSpend just one day in any one of the communities located within Wood Buffalo and you’ll see why people live and work here—beautiful scenery and wonderful people. Some 89,167 people, from around the world call Wood Buffalo home according to the 2007 Municipal Census; however, the population of Aboriginal people (12% according to the 2006 Municipal Census) represents one of the largest, and fastest growing groups in the region.

IndustryThe main industry in Wood Buffalo is oil production from the world famous Athabasca Oil Sands. According to a study done by the Oil Sands Developers Group in 2007, oil sands development has already created 33,000 direct, in-direct and induced jobs and by 2012 another 6,000 new, permanent operations positions will be created. Another 8,500 people will be required to replace workers lost due to attrition. These estimates are for permanent operations jobs so additional opportunities are available in the construction sector.

Keyano CollegeKeyano understands that it is responsible and answerable to the diverse communities it serves, thus campuses and learning centres are located throughout Wood Buffalo.

CampusesFort McMurray—Clearwater & the Suncor Energy Industrial CampusFort Chipewyan

Learning CentresConklinFort McKay—Dorothy McDonald Learning CentreGregoire LakeJanvier

Partners in EducationBy working with partners in government, industry, the community and other post-secondary institutions, we are offering unparalleled programming, services and training right here in Wood Buffalo. Furthermore, Keyano cannot ignore the impact it has on community development. Our Workforce Development areas continue to grow in response to the tremendous training needs of industry, and we will continue to collaborate with our partners to improve the quality of life for all residents of our wonderful region. ■

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In order to prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s opportunities,

the Aboriginal Education department continues to seek out and

develop in-demand programming, services and training.

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Welcome to the inside scoop on the exciting world of Aboriginal

Education @ Keyano College. Our post-secondary institution has

been actively involved in promoting and delivering Aboriginal

focused education for more than four decades. However, to better

focus on the needs of this unique and growing region, Keyano

College initiated a strategic planning process in 2008.

Strategic planning is a process of looking to the future, anticipating trends and events relevant to the future and determining the key initiatives, which should be undertaken by the College to ensure the institution maintains or enhances its effectiveness. Stakeholder consultation was an integral part of this planning process and will continue to be important as we plan for the future.

The Aboriginal Education department, under Community & Upgrading Education, developed and continues to update its comprehensive Aboriginal Education Strategy.

The Aboriginal Education StrategyThe need to improve access to education for Alberta’s growing Aboriginal population is the driving force behind Keyano’s comprehensive Aboriginal Education Strategy. Through consultations with community leaders, industry and government, we continue to develop strategies which will ensure post-secondary education is more accessible and flexible than ever before for Aboriginal students.

Our VisionTo provide the development of a world class Aboriginal Education program at Keyano College that will enhance opportunities for Aboriginal students and their communities in the Wood Buffalo Region, Alberta, Western Canada and the rest of Canada.

Objectives & Priorities1 To enhance the development of programming and other

initiatives2 To provide access to education for Aboriginal students

throughout the region� To provide a broad base of program opportunities with sensitivity

to Aboriginal traditional knowledge, and life experience4 To strengthen and expand the offerings and capacity of

Aboriginal education through strategic partnerships with industry, governments and other public institutions

5 To develop models in training for the Aboriginal workforce that will attract regional, national and international relationships, and lead to promoting cooperation between and among other Indigenous groups

6 Ensure regional strategic priorities to include: I Expansion and strengthening community-based

programming II Promoting entrepreneurship and economic development

programs III Improving programs for literacy and education preparation

within the context of the community IV Extending offerings for on-site and off-site trades and

industry development V Offering leadership and management programs to First

Nation and Metis communities VI Concentrating on community-based environmental

programs VII Strengthening access to technologies that can support

training and educational services

Our MissionTo strengthen and expand the program offerings and capacity of Aboriginal education through strategic partnerships with industry, governments and other public institutions in the following:

Academic Education ProgramsAboriginal Health ProgramsCommunity & Social Development ProgramsAboriginal Economic DevelopmentInformation and Communication Technology ProgramsTrades and Heavy Industrial Development ProgramsEnvironmental ProgramsApplied Research & Development in Aboriginal Education

Aboriginal Education@ Keyano College

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Campuses & Learning CentresKeyano College understands that in order to have a meaningful impact in Aboriginal communities, we must first and foremost be members of those communities. That is why Keyano continues to operate a campus in Fort Chipewyan, as well as learning centres in Conklin, Fort McKay, Gregoire Lake, and Janvier. Because of our permanent presence within these communities, Keyano is able to employ a network of educators and professionals who are connected to the communities they serve, and are providing vital educational access to Aboriginal people in remote and isolated areas of our province.

Student DemographicsOn average, 18 per cent of Keyano’s student population self-reports as Aboriginal. Each year, approximately 450 Aboriginal students attend Keyano College credit programs on a part-time or full-time basis. Approximately 80 per cent participate in full-time studies while 20 per cent are registered as part-time students.

Regional Aboriginal statistics were last reported in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo’s 2006 Census. It indicated that residents who self-identified as Aboriginal made up approximately 12 per cent of our resident population.

Aboriginal Awareness DayEvery year, Keyano College hosts a celebratory event to promote awareness particularly about the history of the Aboriginal peoples in the Wood Buffalo region. The event typically features Aboriginal performances, some traditional activities such as Hand Games and Round Dances and some not so traditional, like rap groups and fashion shows. Aboriginal

Awareness Day at Keyano College’s Clearwater Campus also includes a traditional lunch featuring bannock. The event has grown so much in popularity that it now takes place in Keyano’s Recital Theatre, which is filled to capacity during much of the day-long celebration.

Dallas Arcand, an Alexander Cree, world champion hoop dancer, motivational speaker and Keyano Aboriginal Awareness Day performer says, “The First Nations helped this country become what it is today. I think we need to acknowledge that more often.”

Aboriginal Student CentreIt’s the serenity of the Aboriginal Student Centre at Keyano College’s Clearwater Campus that captures your attention first. The newly renovated Student Centre is available for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students to study in, work on group projects, or simply relax. The Centre’s new décor—chairs, tables, couches and computer workstations—are thanks to a generous $5,000 donation from Shell Albian Sands.

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Dallas Arcand: Keyano Aboriginal Awareness Day performer.

The state of this place [Keyano College]

reflects on all of us. It’s beautiful;

therefore we are all beautiful. I want to

keep it this way.

DR. LAURI GILCHRIST

KEYANO ABORIGINAL COUNSELLOR

Looking ForwardIn order to prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s opportunities, the Aboriginal Education department continues to seek out and develop in-demand programming, services and training.

We continue to look for new partnerships that will benefit students and the community. Thanks to the amazing success of the local Environmental Monitoring Program (page 23), contract discussions are already underway with other First Nations communities. Latin America and South America will soon be on board for the same program as meetings with Inter-American Development Bank and the Alberta Government have already been held.

Discussions are also underway with the Janvier Chief Vern Janvier to develop a long-term strategy to provide programs and supports to build capacity for band members in areas outlined in our Aboriginal Education Strategy (page 9).

Looking forward, there are endless possibilities for Aboriginal Education @ Keyano College—possibilities that are Yours, Mine, and Ours to explore. ■

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Wood Buffalo:a closer lookThe Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is home to Keyano College. Stretching from northcentral Alberta to the borders of Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, Wood Buffalo is one of the largest municipalities in North America. Major communities served by Keyano College include Fort McMurray, Fort McKay, Fort Chipewyan, Gregoire Lake, Anzac, Janvier, and Conklin.

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CampusesFORT MCMURRAYDemographicsThis diverse and growing community located approximately

450 kilometres north of Edmonton is Wood Buffalo’s largest

community with a population of 65,400.

Clearwater (main campus) — Located in the heart of downtown Fort McMurray, this campus houses the majority of Keyano’s classrooms, as well as administration and housing. It is also home to Keyano Theatre, the Syncrude Sport & Wellness Centre and Suncor Learning Innovation Centre.

Suncor Energy Industrial Campus — Located in the MacKenzie Industrial Park, this campus is home to Keyano’s many heavy equipment and industrial programs.

In the early 1960s the regions first oil sands project, Great Canadian Oil Sands, was just starting to take off and as the project grew so did Fort McMurray. It soon became apparent that despite the economic potential for the region and the province, there was a lack of local people with the needed skills to take advantage of the job opportunities.

The Alberta Department of Education responded to this dilemma by establishing an Alberta Vocational Centre (AVC) in Fort McMurray. The Centre, which consisted of four portable classrooms, dormitories and a kitchen, opened its doors on October 4, 1965. According to the Keyano College History compiled by Patte Kelly, on opening day five instructors greeted four students. By the end of the week, there were 30 students, and by the end of October, capacity enrollment of 70 was achieved. By the official opening in 1966, there was a waiting list of 150.

Five programs were offered including skill based pre-employment training in welding, mechanics, carpentry and heavy equipment operation. Also included was academic upgrading, which was required by many students to achieve basic competency in reading, writing and math before entering the pre-employment program.

“Once the oil sands were discovered it became very evident that educational and training services were needed in the region,” said Keyano College President Jim Foote. “The AVC was a success, because it was founded on responding to the needs of the community and industry—something we continue to do today.”

The AVC in Fort McMurray officially became a regional college in 1975 and was renamed Keyano College.

Cheryl Alexander

“In the Aboriginal context, education doesn’t just mean achieving a piece of paper; life is a constant educator. Thankfully Keyano does a great job of helping community members attain post-secondary education and in preparing people for what life has to offer.”

No one knows this better than Cheryl Alexander, a Mikisew Cree and General Manager of the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA).

Cheryl completed a Masters in Theocentric Counselling—Cognitive Behaviour from Genesis Institute of Theology Evangelism & Leadership in Fort McMurray. She also has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Athabasca University and a Business Administration Diploma from Keyano College.

Her career at Keyano started with some difficulty when she enrolled in Accounting. She found out the hard way that the field was not for her. “I was devastated,” Cheryl recalls. “Accounting was so challenging. But, it helped me realize that failure is not final.”

Education is the key to getting ahead,

Keyano College has been very influential

in not only my life, but also in the lives of

my family and those who work for us.

DOUGLAS GOLOSKY

OWNER OF GOLOSKY GROUP OF COMPANIES—

A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR ENTERPRISE

BASED LOCALLY

ALUM TESTIMONIAL

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Cheryl next tried her hand at Management and Human Resources at Keyano. “Accounting didn’t deal with enough people skills for me. Once I realized what I wanted, Keyano provided a lot of options and helped me to develop healthy study habits.”

That education and life experience has helped Cheryl acquire an impressive roster of accomplishments. In addition to her current role as General Manager of NAABA, she also developed an Aboriginal Cultural Awareness training course which she teaches throughout the region; she is a coach for the Fort McMurray Youth Soccer Association; and she is involved in Community Futures Wood Buffalo, Keyano College Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, Leadership Wood Buffalo and the Athabasca Tribal Council Regional Gathering. All of this is in addition to being a wife and mother who operates her own business—C&O Consulting.

However Cheryl is uncomfortable with the moniker ‘Super Woman.’ “At the end of the day it’s all about achieving a holistic balance. I re-evaluate myself spiritually. My family, church, and work—I’m highly involved in all three. When something is off, I take the time to adjust the off-balance element.”

FORT ChIPEWYANDemographicsRecognized as Alberta’s oldest community, Fort Chipewyan is

located on the northwestern tip of Lake Athabasca. It is also

recognized as the second largest community in Wood Buffalo,

with a population of approximately 1,000.

Fort Chipewyan Campus — Keyano College’s service to the community of Fort Chipewyan started in a cold trailer in January 1977 with a four-month program in Basic Job Readiness. It had one instructor and 15 students studying at various levels of the Adult Basic Education program. Today the Campus is located within the community’s Multiplex and consists of six classrooms, a computer lab, an Alberta North CAP Site, a library and an administration area and 10 staff members. Looking forward, Keyano is committed to delivering more community-driven programs in a greater variety of learning areas including medical, education and trades, through partnerships with community-based institutions and organizations.

My goal is to complete the Business

Administration Program at Keyano. It offers

political science and public relations along

with business courses and that’s for me. I

love Aboriginal politics and I want to fight for

human rights and other Aboriginal issues.

TERI VILLEBRUN

FORT CHIPEWYAN CAMPUS

ALUM TESTIMONIAL

I’ve lived in Fort Chipewyan all my life and

I love the program I’m in here at Keyano.

My goal is to attend art school and

become an animator.

VANESSA WHITEHEAD

FORT CHIPEWYAN CAMPUS

ALUM TESTIMONIAL

Keyano College has been training students in the Wood Buffalo region for over 40 years, beginning as an Alberta Vocational Centre in 1965 before being renamed Keyano in 1975.

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Rita Marten

Seasons have always inspired Rita Marten. Growing up, summer meant picking berries and catching fish. Fall brought dried meats, moose hides and then winter meant being at the cabin listening to the squirrels. Spring was the happiest time of the year, the birds returned and you lived off the land, wearing hand-made clothes.

“I’m grateful to the Creator who gave me great parents. I was taught to respect my traditional environment, and the shelter provided by the different seasons. Our way of life relied and depended on the traditional land and that is what shaped our family to be happy with life and to enjoy living off the land. My father’s legacy was to balance

traditional knowledge and mainstream education, and he urged us to never lose sight of the fact that they go hand in hand,” says Rita who has 12 siblings.

Rita has never lost sight of her father’s wisdom. In 1974 she enrolled as an Upgrading student at Keyano College and went on to complete a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree from the University of Alberta.

“My experience at Keyano was great,” recalls Rita.But educating herself wasn’t enough; Rita was committed to

improving education for all Aboriginal students. She went on to work for Alberta Education as a Career Counsellor Assistant; Syncrude Canada Ltd. as an Aboriginal Family Counsellor; and the Northlands School Division as Supervisor of the Native Language Program and teacher of Aboriginal Language and Culture. Rita even taught a semester of Cree at Keyano.

She eventually became inspired by politics and ran for the position of Mikisew Cree Chief. She was the first female to hold this position. During her time as Chief, she sat on the Keyano College Board of Governors. Rita says they worked very hard to develop Aboriginal programming that would work on a community level.

Rita’s quest to embrace her father’s legacy and find a balance for Aboriginal students shows no signs of slowing down. Last year she took over as Director of Education at the Athabasca Tribal Council and she is “looking forward to continuing her work with Keyano College”. ■

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CONKLINDemographicsLocated 140 kilometres southeast of Fort McMurray, Conklin

offers its 300 residents, mostly of Métis descent, a quiet lifestyle

in a close-knit community.

Conklin Learning Centre — In November 1992, Keyano College began offering an Adult Education Program in Conklin at the community’s newly completed training centre. The 24-week program included Academic Upgrading education, along with Life Skills Training and Career Planning instruction. Today the Conklin Learning Centre has the technology and capacity to host 15 full-time students. In just over a decade, the Learning Centre has grown to offer Trades Preparation and Workforce Development training opportunities, as well as to host Conklin’s access hub for eCampusAlberta and its Alberta-North CAP site.

Learning Centres

Life gets in the way sometimes, so I feel very lucky that Keyano

Learning Centre is here. This is my opportunity to complete

something that I’ve always wanted.

hOLLY LYNN QUINTAL

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Edward Adby

When Edward Adby left Conklin as a young man, he wasn’t sure he would return. But he did.

It was Edward’s loyalty to his hometown that drew him home. Edward, who was born and raised in the hamlet by his grandparents, has been working tirelessly to promote education in the region since his return.

Edward dropped out of school at the age of 16 to support his family, so he understood the challenges that students in his community faced. His early departure from schooling also instilled

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in him the true value of education. When the opportunity arose for Edward to partner with the Northlands Division to promote education, he knew it was something he had to do.

He took a break from the oil and gas industry, and went on to teach Cree for the Northlands Division in the 1990s. “I wanted to work for the students, so I also pursued politics—to help improve housing and education for everyone.”

His sojourn to advocate education lead him to chair a number of organizations at one time—that included sitting on the Northlands Division School Board as a trustee. Eventually, Edward’s four years of incessant work brought a Keyano College Learning Centre to Conklin—another advisory committee he sat on.

“Keyano College is to be commended for establishing a Learning Centre in Conklin.”

Guidance, he believes firmly, comes from education only. “We thank Keyano College for listening to the community and addressing, as well as understanding our concerns. Keyano has certainly been a plus in Conklin.” ■

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FORT MCKAYDemographicsFort McKay is a bustling community of 700 residents overlooking

the Athabasca River just 46 kilometres north of Fort McMurray.

Recreation and employment opportunities abound in this scenic

community. Proximity to the oil sands makes them the primary

employment source for the community, although some members

pursue seasonal forestry, hunting and trapping.

The Dorothy McDonald Learning Centre — Located in the growing community of Fort McKay, The Dorothy McDonald Learning Centre has undergone a technology upgrade and has the capacity to accommodate 20 full-time students. The Centre provides upgrading opportunities for trades, technology and various other programming, and offers Workforce Development training such as Oil Sands Safety Association Regional Orientation courses and the Construction Safety Training System (CSTS).

Jim Boucher

A community and business leader, an advocate of educat ion, and former Keyano graduate and Board member—Chief Jim Boucher is a man to be reckoned with.

Chief Boucher has been leading the Fort McKay First Nation since 1986 and has been integral in ensuring the community has prospered.

He is the President of the Fort McKay Group of Companies that operates seven limited companies, fully owned and operated by the Fort McKay First Nation.

In 2008, Chief Boucher was hounoured with the prestigious National Aboriginal Achievement Award for Business & Commerce. The award was established by the National Aboriginal Achievement

Foundation to encourage and celebrate achievements in the Aboriginal community.

“When I started out as a leader, my intention was to help the community, not gain recognition and awards,” said Chief Boucher. “Everyday when I walk or drive around Fort McKay, the changes and the progress I see is all the recognition I need.”

The humble Chief Boucher was also the driving force behind the establishment of the Keyano College Dorothy McDonald Learning Centre in Fort McKay. Prior to 1998, Keyano College offered educational services in Fort McKay in temporary facilities, based on availability. Thanks to Chief Boucher’s support, Keyano College was provided with a permanent satellite learning facility in Fort McKay, enhancing opportunities for residents to upgrade their educational skills in their home community.

“Chief Boucher realizes the importance of post-secondary education in the region; he has always advocated educational initiatives as well as provided employment opportunities to many in Wood Buffalo. As a former student and Board member, Chief Boucher has very strong ties with Keyano College and is a remarkable role model,” said Keyano President Jim Foote.

In fact, the Chief’s strong ties with Keyano go back three decades. He graduated from the Industrial Worker Program in 1974, at a time when Syncrude Canada was just expanding its operations in the region and looking for skilled workers. He served as an active and effective member of the Board of Governors for two consecutive terms; he served as Vice Chair of the Board; and he was a member of the Construction and Facilities Committee.

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I want to be an office administrator and

earn a decent living. Education is the way

to independence.

CHARLENE BOUCHER

THE DOROTHY MCDONALD

LEARNING CENTRE

STUDENT TESTIMONIAL

I want a profession and a vocation. I’m a

singer in a band (Rezz Dawgz) and that’s a

lot of fun but I can imagine myself being a

nurse and I’m working hard towards that.

JANET RICHARDS

THE DOROTHY MCDONALD LEARNING CENTRE

STUDENT TESTIMONIAL

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GREGOIRE LAKEDemographicsIn between Gregoire Lake Provincial Park and Anzac is the

community of Gregoire Lake, home to the Fort McMurray First

Nation #468 and the Gregoire Lake Learning Centre. Located

on the very shores of Gregoire Lake, the 250 residents have

access to numerous outdoor activities. Residents travel to the

nearby community of Anzac for community events, recreational

activities, and services.

Gregoire Lake Learning Centre — The Gregoire Lake Learning Centre has been upgraded with technology and has the capacity to host 15 full-time students.

Roy Vermillion

The need for education, both traditional and mainstream, are a necessity for First Nations—Roy Vermillion firmly believes this and promotes the notion tirelessly among his people.

Roy is the CEO of the Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC), which represents the five First Nations of North Eastern Alberta. These are the Athabasca Chipewyan First

Nation, Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, Fort McKay First Nation, Fort McMurray No. 468 First Nation, and Mikisew Cree First Nation.

Roy completed a Masters in Education from the University of British Columbia in 1991and returned to Fort McMurray in 1996 to join the ATC as the Director of Education.

“At ATC our mandate is to provide advice and technical assistance to First Nations, and our work with Keyano has helped us achieve that,” said Roy, who took over as ATC CEO in 2003.

As a member of Keyano’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee, Roy assisted the College in identifying and understanding the challenges facing First Nations people and made recommendations on how to address those challenges. He assisted in the implementation of programming for Aboriginal students at Keyano College such as Aboriginal Entrepreneurship, Aboriginal Child & Family Services, and Environmental Monitoring. He worked with Keyano’s Aboriginal Counsellor to organize Aboriginal Awareness Day, now an annual event at Keyano College and he suggested developing an Aboriginal Student Lounge, where native students could meet to collaborate on their education and meet with elders.

“Keyano College has played a major role in assisting the ATC and First Nations. By obtaining formal education our people understand and promote our culture throughout the region. I believe we all have something to contribute to our community and the world. We go about life to do what we can,” Roy added.

JANVIERDemographicsJanvier, a hamlet located 100 kilometres south of Fort McMurray,

is a community of almost 200 people, mostly Métis, and is home

to the Chipewyan Prairie First Nation. Over the past few years,

employment opportunities have been on the rise as gas and oil

sands activity has increased in the region.

Janvier Learning Centre — The Janvier Learning Centre is located within the beautiful log style community Multiplex, which recently underwent a technology upgrade and has the capacity to host 25 full-time students.

Charles Nokohoo

When Charles Nokohoo graduated from high school, he had no idea what the future had in store for him.

He headed to the oil sands where he worked as a journeyman partsman, better known as a journeyman technician today, for Syncrude where he stayed for 10 years. Next he went to Wascana

Energy, a natural gas company in the Janvier/Conklin area, where he became a gas plant operator.

“I worked myself up to management at Wascana. Our manager, who was also my mentor, told me to go to Keyano College for some post-secondary education.”

When Wascana was sold, Charles elected to do just that. Instead of accepting a position at another gas plant, Charles enrolled at Keyano and completed a Business Management Diploma.

“People always said I was good leader, but it was my Keyano education that helped me hone this skill as well as improve my management skills.”

Charles, who is now the Finance Controller for the Chipewyan Prairie First Nation in Janvier, his hometown, says that pursuing a post-secondary education certainly posed some challenges but was well worth it in the end.

“I had been out of school 20 years, so my time at Keyano was pretty exciting. I struggled with not only developing good study habits, but with English, my second language, as well.”

Inspired by these challenges, Charles made use of his leadership skills and created an Aboriginal study group at the College. The idea was to help one another through rough patches. Soon after, he became a member of the Keyano Aboriginal Students’ Committee and assisted in creating the Aboriginal Student Centre. ➤

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Our energy is your energywww.total-ep-canada.com

Proud Supporter of

Yours, Mine, Ours: Aboriginal Education at Keyano College.

“Our students really needed a place where they could invite the elders to visit and help them. Aboriginal students don’t always go to counsellors, they more often seek advice from the elders,” Charles added.

Education for Charles is the key to achieving goals. In fact his long-terms plans include going back to Keyano College to pursue accounting. He says the Aboriginal community needs help when it comes to organizing and executing projects.

“We need a lot more translators. I know Dene, so I can go

back and help my people, but we need more individuals who are educated.”

Charles says success is all about having a vision and committing to it. Through his professional and educational career, he put personal problems aside and decided to accept them and move on.

“When you make a commitment, you can’t deviate. Making up excuses is the easiest option but not the best. Look at the map of your achievements and keep going.” ■

What I’m looking for is a better job and the

skills to make that happen. I want to study

Business Management and wherever I

go I will represent my reserve, my family,

and my people with pride. There is a great

deal of pride in completing something and

doing it well.

ARNOLD FONTAINE

JANVIER LEARNING CENTRE

STUDENT TESTIMONIAL

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ProgrammingCORE PROGRAMMING

Aboriginal Addictions ServicesIndividuals with a desire to work in addictions services with Aboriginals living in urban or rural settings can receive specialized training from Keyano College. Topics covered in this program include communications and report writing, facilitation and community development, family counselling, pharmacology or drugs and group counselling. The Aboriginal Addictions Services Program is offered at the Nechi Institute in St. Albert, through a partnership with Keyano College. The certificate portion of the Aboriginal Addictions Services Program can be completed in six months.

Aboriginal Child and Family ServicesThis program, offered through a partnership with Yellowhead Tribal College in Edmonton, addresses the concerns of First Nations, Métis and urban Aboriginals as they respond to the redesign of family and social services for children and families as well as the move by First Nations People to provide local control for social programs. As an Aboriginal Child and Family Services student at Keyano College, all of your courses will emphasize the influence that family, health and culture have on child development. You’ll learn practical skills to provide help as a qualified child and family services employee. ➤

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Aboriginal EntrepreneurshipSponsored by Shell Albian SandsSponsored by RBC FoundationWhether your business idea is a café, an accounting firm or a mobile welding service, the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program will allow you to seize the many opportunities available regionally. This program is designed to provide people in Aboriginal business settings with the knowledge and skills to excel in business without having to disrupt their family lives, by either moving to another city or quitting their jobs. With the program now offered online, students can choose to complete courses at their own pace and at a time that is most convenient for them. Upon completion of the program, students can apply for a start-up loan of $5,000 to $20,000 offered by the Business Development Bank of Canada.

Community Wellness CertificateLearn the skills necessary for enhancing the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual well-being of children and families in your community by reducing risk factors and increasing protective factors. This program is geared towards caregivers from various disciplines (child welfare, health centres, school counsellors,

Rod Saddleback, graduate of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship program.

I enjoyed the fact that we weren’t in a class

setting all the time. The best thing about

the initiative was learning about the history

of child welfare in Canada. The history of

social services and Aboriginal children gave

me a new perspective on things. I got a

better understanding and appreciation of

why things are this way for the Aboriginal

people.

TARA PAPIRNIC

ABORIGINAL CHILD AND

FAMILY SERVICES PROGRAM

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Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation ProgramThe Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program, which will start in September 2009, provides Aboriginal people with not only the skills to enter and succeed in apprenticeship training, but also employment opportunity at Syncrude Canada Ltd.

The project grew out of a need expressed by the Alberta Aboriginal Apprenticeship Project for training to help Aboriginal people pass the trades’ entrance exam and succeed through an entire apprenticeship program. The Keyano program was developed under the guidance of a Management Group that includes members of the Aboriginal community; adult educators; Syncrude Canada Ltd.; Alberta, Employment and Immigration; and Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.

The program will be offered to 40 trainees. Half the trainees will take the program at the Clearwater Campus in Fort McMurray and the other half will be spread throughout the four regional communities in Wood Buffalo. Following completion of the first year of three, a comprehensive evaluation, the curriculum objectives, and the evaluation report will be made available to interested audiences nationally.

The program builds the trainees towards apprenticeship employment through strengthening their essential skills, their adoption of oil sands workplace safety culture, and their academics (math, science, and reading) over six months. Augmenting this base will be discussions with Aboriginal mentors and safety professionals, safety certification courses, work site tours, and trades exploration activities. The last month consists of a trade work placement at Syncrude Canada Ltd. For graduates this experience is the precursor to their employment at Syncrude.

GENERAL PROGRAMMING

Construction Safety Training System Course—Fort McKayJuly 2008 brought good news for Keyano students in Fort McKay as the College introduced the Construction Safety Training System (CSTS) course. The course is the result of a contract between Keyano and Canadian Natural Resources Limited. CSTS is an online program with 12 modules. It is a requirement for working at industrial sites, and covers about 50 topics including construction safety and proper protection equipment.

Learner Assistance ProgramLeague for Innovation—2008 Innovation of the Year AwardIf you had to describe the Learner Assistance Program (LAP) at Keyano College succinctly, you could call it a life-changing initiative. The program provides services to current and prospective students whose disabilities involve any number of conditions affecting mobility, vision, hearing, learning, physical, or mental health. The initiative has a high retention because it is a community effort. Students, parents, instructors, school boards—everyone is involved to ensure that learners excel. Expansion of the Learner Assistance Program into the regional campuses is in the works.

addictions programs, mental health workers, youth workers) within First Nation communities, Métis settlements and urban Aboriginal agencies. Keyano College partners with the Nechi Institute in the delivery of this program.

Environmental Monitoring ProgramSponsored by EnCana CorporationSponsored by ConocoPhillips Canada Ltd.Living close to the land and being aware of the changes it goes through has been part of Aboriginal culture for decades. The Environmental Monitoring Program equips students with the skills needed to take part in modern processes that examine how the land is affected by industry and individuals. As a student in the Environmental Monitoring Program, you’ll receive hands-on training through flexible and responsive instruction, which is focused on your individual needs and those expressed by industry. You’ll gain safety and technical skills that are beneficial in many areas of employment in the region, as well as specific environmental study in areas such as planning, inspection, reclamation and waste management. Upon successful completion of the program, students are interviewed by industry stakeholders and participating employers, which may lead to employment as an environmental monitor.

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Thanks to the Environmental Monitoring

Program we were exposed to different

opportunities through job shadowing. I

look forward to the shared success of the

program.

LIONEL GIANT

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PROGRAM

GRADUATE (2007)

The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program

helped me find success by giving me the

tools for business.

FLOYD GLADUE

NORTHERN ALBERTA ABORIGINAL

BUSINESS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTOR

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Workforce Development @ Keyano CollegeKeyano College delivers high quality training and consulting services to the community. Workforce Development works with Aboriginal Education to provide training and training facilities to companies and organizations in rural Wood Buffalo. With these two dynamic Keyano teams working together, the College has customized leadership training for the Fort McKay Group of Companies, brought Construction Safety Training System to Fort Chipewyan, and provided computer training in Janvier. They are investigating delivery options to utilize a web based “electronic tool kit” in support of economic development in regional and Aboriginal communities, and they are developing a Contract Management Program for Aboriginal and small businesses to assist them in bidding and managing contracts within the oil sands.

Through this partnership Keyano has also been able to provide work placements for students graduating from the Construction Craft Labourer Employability program, professional development opportunities for Aboriginal Human Services providers such as group home workers and counsellors, and customized training for office workers employed at Aboriginal organizations.

Construction Craft Labourer Employability ProgramTake charge of your career. Keyano’s Construction Craft Labourer Employability Program (CCLEP) provides students with the skills to enter the lucrative construction field. This 26-week programprepares students for field-work on construction sites, moving materials and equipment, and performing demolition, excavation and compaction activities. It also includes a six week work placement. In conjunction with upgrading their education towards their GED, students earn nine industry tickets that assist them with employment opportunities upon graduation. These include Construction Industry Standard Safety, Basics of Construction, Scaffolding, Surveying, Blueprint Reading and Formwork.

Andrew Boucher

Imagine setting out on a long journey. You stumble, you fall, but you pick yourself up and finally see your destination. Then when you are a step away from that destination, you realize you have to go back and start all over again—you just can’t take that last step.

Getting an education was like that for Andrew Cory Lee Boucher. He struggled through school after grade four. A company of bad friends didn’t help either. By grade seven things had gotten out of hand, and he dropped out.

It was his principal in Fort McKay who asked Keyano to allow Andrew to start college, even though he wasn’t an adult. Keyano offered the beacon that would eventually see Andrew to his destination—a successful life and career, but not without more struggles.

“I had a problem committing,” recalls Andrew.At Keyano, Andrew would work hard at his studies throughout

the entire year, and then when finals rolled around he would get very nervous.

“I had test anxiety. So I would see my courses through but duck out at the end, which meant I had to repeat them. I would also get discouraged easily, and had to work on that. It’s not all gone, but I’m much better now.”

The nervous youngster of yesterday is now a contract facilitator for the Construction Safety Training System offered through Keyano in Fort McKay.

“I want to thank Keyano College and my band for supporting me. I’m a Fort McKay First Nations Treaty 8 Member. I have been put down, laughed at, pointed at for my failures, but I persevered. It is how you look at life, not how people look at you.”

Speaking of looking at life, Andrew’s view for the future is a rosy one. He says growing up without any extra money has inspired him to develop a business idea—an arcade for the youth of Fort McKay.

“I wanted to help insure our children have activities to keep them busy and away from wandering around, doing drugs or other inappropriate things. I like to think I am helping parents out. Video games are in, and they help with hand/eye coordination also.”

Andrew’s business goals have turned this once reluctant student back to school again. “My next plan is to enrol in Keyano’s online Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program.” ■

CSTS helps in providing more job

opportunities for people, it is opening

more doors.

ANDREW BOUCHER

KEYANO COLLEGE INSTRUCTOR

IN FORT MCKAY

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Aboriginal Student CentreStudents at Keyano College have a place to call their own, where they can kick back and relax or work on a class project. The Aboriginal Student Centre located in Room 155 of the Clearwarer Campus is open to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students and is equipped with tables, chairs, couches, computers and beautiful Aboriginal art.

Aboriginal CounsellingStudents at Keyano College have access to two Aboriginal Counsellors – one for the regional campuses and another at the Clearwater Campus. The Counselling department currently provides services to 80 students off-campus, as they are moving towards face-to-face Internet counselling. The Aboriginal Counsellors employ both mainstream and Aboriginal methods for their counselling practice for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students.

SKILL CentreThe Student Knowledge Independent Lifelong Learning (SKILL) Centre offers a number of services: • Tutoring and assistance with math,

science, and writing• Tips for time management, study skills

and exams survival• Preparation courses for General

Educational Development (GED) testing and apprenticeship exams offered

• Quiet environment to work on projects or homework

• Adaptive Technology such as comprehensive software for reading, writing, math and core curriculum to assist students whose disabilities involve any number of conditions affecting mobility, vision, hearing, learning, physical, or mental health

I use the medicinal wheel, which helps me understand

the emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical state of

a person. We are working towards a preventative,

proactive world to get ahead of the crisis.

DR. LAURI GILCHRIST

KEYANO ABORIGINAL COUNSELLOR

STUDENT SERVICES

FAST FACTS

• We provide general and/or specific program information

• We provide information about admission requirements and application procedures

• We process all applications for admission and registration for academic programs

• We provide scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid

• Our academic advisors and counsellors provide program and course advisement as well as information about Keyano’s co-operative education programs

• We provide Career & Counselling services and host workshops and seminars for students and the community

• We issue certificates, transcripts, and statement of marks

• We provide testing services including the DAT and GED

For a complete list of services visit us online at

www.keyano.ca/Instruction/ Student_Services

Aboriginal Student Services

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Keyano College’s Student Awards

program provides recognition and

support to eligible students for academic

achievement, community involvement

and financial need. The program is

made possible through generous gifts

from individual and business donors,

community organizations, provincial

government and the continuing efforts of

the Keyano College Foundation.

The following awards are offered specifically to our Aboriginal students or have a stated preference for students with Aboriginal heritage:

• Bert Lang Native Bursary $750

• JACOS Heritage Bursary $3,500

• The Wallace Family Award $1,000

• ConocoPhillips Canada Award $2,000

• Eric & Kathleen Newell Aboriginal Entrepreneurship $1,000 Certificate Program Award

• Enbridge Inc. Entrance Bursary $1,000

• Krupp Canada Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Scholarship $1,000

• Harvard Broadcasting Aboriginal Award $5,000

• Tim Walsh Aboriginal Entrepreneurship $1,000 Certificate Program Award

• Trans Canada Transmission Bursary $1,200

• Wood Buffalo Aboriginal Achievement Awards $500

• Charles Martin Memorial Award $ 500

• Chief Jim Boucher Ministerial Award of Excellence

$1,000

• Jean Family Scholarship $1,000

• Bank of Montreal Continuing Education Bursary

$1,000

• Donna Cyprien Award $150

• ATCO Power & ATCO Electric Co-Op Power $1,000 Engineering Bursary

• NIPI Services Inc. Award $500

• Chief Jim Boucher Distinguished Alumnus Award

$700

• ATCO Gas Energy and Environmental Technologies Award

$1,000

• Bank of Montreal Emergency Medical Technician Bursary

$1,000

• TransAlta Corporation Co-Op Power Engineering Award

$2,000

• Bank of Montreal Process Operator Bursary $1,000

• Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers Scholarship

$4,000

• ATCO Electric and ATCO Power Electrical Technology Bursary

$1,000

Many other awards are available to students attending Keyano College. For a complete listing please view them on our website at

www.keyano.ca Awards & Scholarships.

For a complete list of all provincial awards please visit:

www.alis.gov.ab.ca/scholarships

AboriginalScholarships & Awards@ Keyano College

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CLASSROOM TEChNOLOGYIn order to provide excellent programming and services to the communities and students we serve, it is imperative that Keyano stays on the leading edge of technology. Over the past few years, we increased the usage of educational technologies to support and deliver courses and programs at our Aboriginal Learning Centres. Instructors received new laptops, usage of smart classroom technology was increased and remote administrative personnel were provided with access to the College’s information systems. Through our Community Access Points (Alberta-North), students have Internet access to eCampusAlberta credit courses and programs such as Aboriginal Entrepreneurship, which is being offered via the Blackboard Management Platform. Students also have access to core learner resources such as videoconferencing facilities, reference books, computers and software.

PARTNERShIPSKeyano strongly believes that partnerships nurture our learning environment, thus we continue to cultivate effective working relationships with Aboriginal organizations, industry partners, funders and other post-secondary institutions. Such collaborations are key to the continued success of Keyano College. By working with partners, we are able to offer unparalleled programming, services and training right here in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.

Community Investment

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Community and Industry

Shell Albian SandsShell Albian Sands is a generous sponsor of the Aboriginal

Entrepreneurship Program at Keyano College. The program is designed to provide people in Aboriginal business settings with the knowledge and skills to excel in business without having to disrupt their family lives. Previously offered via the classroom, the program is now also offered online, making it more accessible and flexible than ever to complete this highly popular training.

Business Development Bank of CanadaThe Business

Development Bank of Canada is a proud supporter of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program and its students. Upon completion of the program students can apply for a start-up loan of $5,000 to $20,000 offered by the Business Development Bank of Canada.

RBC FoundationFounding and Enduring

sponsor of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program.

Encana Corporation, ConocoPhillips, Government & CommunityThe Environmental

Monitoring Program was first offered in 2006 through a collaborative effort between Keyano, industry, Fort McMurray First Nation 468, Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, Métis Nation of Alberta, and Alberta Employment and Immigration. The focus of the program is to provide First Nations and Métis students or non-status Aboriginals with occupational skills and academic employability to become environmental monitors with our industry partners.

In 2007, Encana Corporation and ConocoPhillips provided an additional $1 million to the Environmental Monitoring Program to be delivered by Keyano College in Fort McMurray for three years. This donation means that 36 students will have the opportunity to train as environmental monitors in Wood Buffalo.

Northern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA)The original founding members of NAABA were the driving force behind the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program at Keyano College. NAABA is a non-profit organization with approximately 200 members. It is a growing interest group of Aboriginal businesses, committed to enhancing and creating an environment, which promotes businesses, jobs, and training for the betterment of all Aboriginal people in the region. Full NAABA members own companies that are at least 51 per cent Aboriginal. In partnership with Keyano, NAABA and Community Futures assisted in developing the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, and participate in the updating of curriculum, when necessary, to reflect current business practices and the needs of the economy and community. Currently discussions are underway to implement a mentorship program between NAABA members and Aboriginal Entrepreneurship students.

Petro-CanadaPetro-Canada played an instrumental role in the development of Keyano’s

Aboriginal Education Strategy by providing $60,000 in support. The Aboriginal Education Strategy is Keyano’s guide in evaluating priorities, program development direction and related services to ensure we continue to offer relevant and effective Aboriginal Education.

Samson Cree NationKeyano recently partnered with the Samson Cree Nation to offer its Aboriginal

Entrepreneurship Certificate Program in Hobbema. Former Chief Victor S. Buffalo, who received the Order of Canada, was instrumental in fostering this partnership. The first class graduated in 2008 and plans are underway to continue the initiative.

We first started talking to various colleges in the 1980s,

and are appreciative of what Keyano College has done

in Hobbema with their Aboriginal Entrepreneurship

Program.

VICTOR BUFFALO

FORMER HOBBEMA CHIEF

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communities of Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Janvier and Conklin. Graduates will then be able to pursue trades apprenticeship through Syncrude employment or other programs geared towards working in the oil sands, including heavy equipment or process operator training. ➤

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Partnership results in numerous benefits

for the Aboriginal community

When Floyd Gladue underwent a heart transplant, he wasn’t sure things would ever be the same again. But thanks to his education at Keyano College and his association with the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA) things got back to normal sooner than expected.

Gladue underwent the procedure in 2005 after a successful career with Syncrude Canada Ltd. and Shell Albian Sands. Following a three-month recovery period doctors advised him to stay away from strenuous tasks. This is when he decided to enrol in Keyano’s Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, and with the support of Shell Albian Sands started his own water and waste management business in 2007.

“Keyano helped me find success by giving me the tools for business, and NAABA provided me with opportunities. The two organizations combined can give you ultimate success,” Gladue said.

Teresa Outhouse, Coordinator of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program at Keyano College, says the partnership between Keyano and NAABA is all about building capacity in the Aboriginal community. “We thank NAABA for their continued support of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, and Community Futures as well,” Outhouse said.

Cheryl Alexander, General Manager of NAABA, says the collaboration between the two organizations is a win-win for all. “A number of our members have successfully completed the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program at Keyano. We are always looking to assist the College,” Alexander said.

Keyano has long been a cornerstone and brain-trust

of the community. But the College needs to grow to

keep up with the growth of our region, and we would

like to help.

TOM KATINAS

SYNCRUDE PRESIDENT AND CEO

Syncrude Canada Ltd.In September

2008, Syncrude Canada Limited announced its single largest financial commitment in its 43-year history with a $5 million donation to Keyano College.

Approximately $1.8 million was dedicated towards funding the Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program. The initiative will see 40 students enrolled, 20 of which will complete the program at the Clearwater Campus while the remainder will complete their studies in the region’s outlying

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Alberta-NorthAlberta-North is a partnership of seven post-secondary

institutions, including Keyano College that makes courses and programs accessible to students in northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories. The partners provide facilities, learning technologies and support services to over 80 online learning sites called Community Access Points (CAP sites). Wood Buffalo is home to six of these CAP sites: Conklin, Fort Chipewyan, Fort MacKay, Fort McMurray, Gregoire Lake and Janvier. Keyano, a founding member of Alberta-North, offers six programs ranging from Aboriginal Entrepreneurship to College Preparation as well as many individual courses. For additional information please call (780) 791-8967.

Community Education Advisory CommitteesOur Aboriginal Education department collaborates with various Community Education Advisory Committees to identify new course and program needs, improve completion rates by introducing initiatives such as the Leaner Assistance Program, and increase the variety of courses and programs available to Aboriginal learners within their communities using alternative education methods such as eCampusAlberta and Alberta-North.

eCampusAlbertaIf you always dreamed of going to school in your pajamas, sitting in the comfort of your home—wake up! Keyano can make that dream a reality. eCampusAlberta has been providing flexible learning schedules for five years now. It offers an opportunity for people who may not otherwise be able to access post-secondary education to complete a course or earn a certificate or diploma. eCampusAlberta is the vision of 15 Alberta post-secondary institutions that are working together to provide online learning opportunities to Albertans. As one of the colleges participating in this initiative, Keyano College currently offers courses ranging from Aboriginal Entrepreneurship t o Business Communications.

A complete list of Keyano College courses offered through eCampusAlberta is available at www.keyano.ca.

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Athabasca Tribal Council ............................................................................................ 15

Fort McKay Group of Companies .................................................................................. 4

Mammoet Canada Western Ltd ..................................................................................... 4

Mikisew Group of Companies .............................................................. inside back cover

Shell Canada Ltd .................................................................................. inside front cover

Syncrude Canada Ltd ....................................................................... outside back cover

Total E&P .................................................................................................................... 20

www.ecampusalberta.ca

Post-secondary Institutions

CollegesWhen colleges collaborate the result is always a win-win partnership for students. Keyano College, Yellowhead Tribal College (YTC), Nechi Institute and Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology (SIIT) are proof of that.

Yellowhead Tribal College, the largest Aboriginal college in Edmonton, assists Keyano in delivering the first year of the Aboriginal Child & Family Services Diploma. This collaboration ensures Keyano is able to continually improve its services and delivery within an Aboriginal cultural setting. Thanks to Yellowhead Tribal College, Keyano is also working closely with Aboriginal elders who not only attend Keyano graduations but also counsel students.

Keyano’s partnership with the Nechi Training, Research, and Health Promotions Institute, a center for Aboriginal well-being based in St. Albert goes back almost two decades. Keyano offers the Aboriginal Addictions Services Program in conjunction with Nechi. The elders at Nechi also play an integral role in ensuring the cultural component in our addictions programming.

SIIT is yet another principal partner. SIIT brokers the second year of Keyano’s Aboriginal Addictions Services Program to train competent individuals in the field of human services and inject qualified and well trained workers into the areas of addictions and family services. ■

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http://www.mikisewgroup.com

Opportunity rises from common ground.

The Syncrude Project is a joint venture operated by Syncrude Canada Ltd. and owned by Canadian Oil Sands Limited, Conoco-Phillips Oil Sand Partnership II, Imperial Oil Resources, Mocal Energy Limited, Murphy Oil Company Ltd., Nexen Oil Sands Partnership, and Petro-Canada Oil and Gas.

For over three decades, Syncrude has worked closely with our Aboriginal neighbours to help them succeed—in life, in their careers and in business. To us, the foundation for success lies in education. That’s why we’re a leading supporter of programs that enable Aboriginal people to learn and grow. Syncrude has sponsored many Keyano College programs tailored to Aboriginal students. And today, Keyano is an important provider of Aboriginal post-secondary education and training. Together, Syncrude and Keyano will continue to open the doors of opportunity—giving people the skills they need to take part in the oil sands industry, or wherever life takes them.

For more information about careers at Syncrude visit syncrude.com