Portage College is pleased to announce a new partnership with Athabasca County focused on enhancing work-integrated learning opportunities for college students and providing access to microcredentials and other online learning options for County employees and Councillors. Through the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, both entities aim to support the success of students and county employees in their work and educational endeavors.

Beginning January 1, 2025, and continuing until December 31, 2028, this partnership will see Portage College waive mandatory fees for Athabasca County employees and elected officials who wish to enroll in micro-credential training programs. In turn, Athabasca County will provide support for work-integrated learning opportunities, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that strengthens both local workforce development and educational excellence.

The focus on work-integrated learning is essential, as it offers students valuable hands-on experience while they pursue their studies. By collaborating with Athabasca County, Portage College aims to provide students with meaningful opportunities to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, ultimately enhancing their employability and community engagement.

President Nancy Broadbent of Portage College expressed her excitement for this impactful partnership, stating, "This collaboration marks a significant step towards enhancing educational experiences for our students. By integrating work and learning, we are enabling our college students to gain essential skills while simultaneously supporting Athabasca County's workforce. This is a powerful way to invest in the future of our community."

Chief Administrative Officer of Athabasca County, Bob Beck, shared his enthusiasm for a new partnership with Portage College. “We are excited to collaborate with Portage College to provide students with insights into municipal operations while offering our employees the opportunity to coach and mentor them. This partnership further enables our staff and council members to enhance their skills by participating in new learning opportunities. Ultimately, it will benefit both the students and our team, promoting a vibrant exchange of knowledge and fostering lifelong learning.”

The alliance between Portage College and Athabasca County is a significant advancement in promoting educational opportunities and workforce readiness in the region. Together, these institutions are dedicated to shaping the future of local students and enhancing the capabilities of the community.

For further information, please contact:

Enrolling in micro-credentials:
Continuing Education
1-888-745-0719 or training@portagecollege.ca

More information on work placements:
Work Integrated Learning
780-623-5574 or wil@portagecollege.ca

Media Inquiries:
Portage College Corporate Communications Department
780-623-6671 or email

Athabasca County Human Resources
780-675-2241 or hr@athabascacounty.com