Breaking New Ground Innovative Education in the Agricultural Sector
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Reference: Sponsored Article
From moving dirt to harvesting crops, skilled labour and tradespeople play a critical role in keeping the machines running to ensure the work is getting done, and Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is taking major steps to ensure the future of trades is one of growth and strength.
This spring, ground was broken on one of the biggest projects in the history of the College, a critical expansion and renovation of the W. J. Elliott Building — home to Olds College’s School of Trades & Skills. The project will create a more accessible, innovative and future-focused space to train Alberta’s next generation of trades professionals.
The new facility will support some of our core trades programs, including both Agricultural and Heavy Equipment Technician programs, and also offer expanded space for dual credit programming opportunities, industry training and continuing education. Designed to meet the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s employers, the upgraded building will include:
- Modernized classrooms and labs with enhanced accessibility
- Overhead cranes, and vehicle lifts with highway tractor alignment systems and wheel dynamometers
- Improved material transport efficiency and increased equipment storage
- Purpose-built infrastructure to integrate future technologies
For over a century, Olds College has been a leader in hands-on education. Students from across Canada and around the globe choose Olds College for its practical, industry-relevant training with leading-edge technology and research.
As one of Canada's Top 5 Research Colleges, Olds College offers industry-driven programs in:
- Agriculture & agriculture Technology
- Horticulture & food production
- Land & environmental management
- Animal health & equine studies
- Business & trades
Our focus on real-world learning opportunities and apprenticeships ensures students are well prepared for their chosen careers. Through collaborations with industry experts, our students receive leading-edge education from experienced instructors and gain valuable hands-on experience.
With our growing student enrolment, we are committed to continuously providing exceptional work-integrated learning that provides our students with the updated skills and knowledge needed to step into the ever-changing agricultural and technological sectors with confidence.
Since 1913, Olds College has been a driving force in agricultural education and innovation.
As Canada's Smart Agriculture College, we are dedicated to transforming agriculture for a better world through education, research and community engagement.
Watch the interview with Dennis Beaudoin, Dean, School of Trades & Skills to learn more.
