Since its founding over 50 years ago, NAIT has consistently evolved to meet the needs of students and industry in a province that’s the engine of Canada’s economy.
From the first class of 29 communication electrician apprentices in 1962 to today’s current enrolment of 40,000 students and apprentices, NAIT continues to meet Alberta’s needs – for today and the future.
History
In 1959, the Alberta provincial government decided to build an Edmonton facility to supplement apprenticeship and vocational training, which was at the time handled by the Provincial Institute of Technology (PITA) in Calgary. The new institution would be named the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) and PITA would be renamed the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). Construction of the new facility began in January 1962.
The first class was enrolled in October, a group of 29 Communication Electrician apprentices. NAIT officially opened on May 27, 1963, with a ceremony led by Premier Ernest Manning. The first graduation ceremony happened in 1965, with a class of 326 graduates. In 1982, the government transferred control to the new Board of Governors, chaired by Allan McCagherty.NAIT has been a leading polytechnic for more than 50 years. The school marked its 50th anniversary in 2012.
Promise to Alberta
NAIT’s primary focus is on meeting the current and emerging needs for polytechnic education and research in Alberta. NAIT is relevant and responsive, providing outstanding technical education. While serving the needs of Alberta, NAIT is globally competitive and recognized.
Promise to Students
NAIT provides a positive student experience that encompasses students’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being and defines success broadly. We prepare students to succeed in meaningful careers, find employment in their chosen field, and have the skills necessary to have an immediate impact.
Promise to Industry
NAIT produces an exceptionally skilled workforce, aligned directly to industry needs. Our programs are developed with industry’s input and our research is industry-driven to create enterprises that compete worldwide.
Promise to Staff
NAIT is one of Canada’s outstanding places to work, which follows from a culture of how we work together. This is reflected in our values of respect, collaboration, celebration, support, and accountability.
Recognized for its outstanding technical education, the rich practical exposure received by students is of paramount importance in their learning process. In a survey conducted between February and April 2018 by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (Canada’s flagship international education association, based in Ottawa), international students at NAIT rank it among the top schools in Canada for both employability and overall experience. Also, NAIT was ranked safest among the 46 universities, colleges, and polytechnics surveyed.
