Major Investment for Skilled Trades in Saskatchewan
In a significant move to bolster the provincial workforce, Strathcona Resources has committed a $1 million investment to Saskatchewan Polytechnic. This marks the first-ever contribution from the rapidly growing heavy oil producer to the educational institution. The funds are dedicated to supporting the development of the new Joseph A. Remai Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus in Saskatoon, a project squarely aimed at addressing the increasing demand for skilled labour in the oil and gas sector.
Building the Workforce of Tomorrow
Dale Babiak, CEO of Strathcona Resources, emphasized the long-term vision behind the investment during a recent news conference. "We have an obligation as far as an industry to help educate and prepare those students as the next generation of people for our industry," Babiak stated. He highlighted the critical need for these skilled workers, noting that the company requires them today and will for decades to come. The investment will see two power engineering technology classrooms at the new campus named after Strathcona, directly linking the facility's training capabilities to the needs of the energy industry.
A Campus for Growth and Innovation
The new Joseph A. Remai campus is a cornerstone project for Saskatchewan's educational and economic future. According to Dr. Larry Rosia, CEO of Sask. Polytechnic, the facility is expected to increase student enrolment by 30 to 40 percent. This expansion is crucial, given the institution's remarkable 96 percent employment rate for graduates. Dr. Rosia explained that the investment is part of the school's Time to Rise campaign, which has now reached 70 percent of its ambitious $100 million goal. Construction on the campus is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2026 on lands belonging to the University of Saskatchewan. Premier Scott Moe has previously endorsed the project, envisioning it as part of a larger "innovation corridor" that leverages the strengths of the polytechnic, the university, and Innovation Place.
The investment comes at a time when Saskatchewan's oil and gas sector is a major economic driver, having contributed approximately $1 billion to the province's GDP in 2024, which represents about 13 percent of the total. This partnership between industry and education underscores a shared commitment to ensuring the province's continued prosperity by preparing a highly skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of a key economic sector.
