Learning Centre
Given Chestermere’s rapid growth, cultural diversity, lack of current adult education programs, and emerging industry needs, a partnership with SAIT’s Continuing Education and Professional Studies
department and Hilgartner Learning can fill significant gaps.
The following is a list of strategic training and learning pathways that would serve both the community and local industry:
- Foundational & Academic Upgrading Pathway
Chestermere has no current adult education programming, so a basic starting point is critical.
- Literacy and Numeracy Skills
For adults needing to strengthen English, reading, writing, and math.
- High School Equivalency / CAEC Prep
For adults who did not complete high school. Prepares learners for the Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC).
- English Language Learning (ELL)
Especially important given the city’s cultural diversity. Should include workplace communication, academic English, and language for specific purposes.
- Skilled Trades & Pre-Apprenticeship Pathway
For both youth and adults seeking practical, job-ready skills in fields with current labour shortages.
- Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
Target areas like electrical, plumbing, carpentry, welding — taught in modular, stackable formats.
- Microcredentials in Skilled Trades
Short courses recognized by industry for specific tools, safety, or software (e.g., WHMIS, CNC machine operation).
- Women in Trades & Indigenous Trades Access
To reflect and support underrepresented groups in trades training.
- Health Care & Human Services Pathway
The demand for health and elder care continues to grow across Alberta.
- Health Care Aide & Support Worker Training
Fast-track programs leading to employment in long-term care, home care, and support roles.
- Mental Health First Aid & Community Support Training
For both employment and stronger civic engagement in a diverse community.
- Digital & Business Skills Pathway
Supports workforce readiness and entrepreneurship for both new and established residents.
- Digital Literacy & Office Technology
From basic computer skills to Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and workplace apps.
- Accounting, Payroll & Bookkeeping
Targeted at small business owners and career changers.
- Entrepreneurship & Business Start-up
Programs For immigrants and locals interested in starting businesses — could tie into mentorship or incubator programs.
- Industry-Specific Pathways
These depend on Chestermere’s local and regional economic development priorities.
- Construction & Infrastructure
With Chestermere growing fast, offer construction management, safety, and trades training.
- Logistics & Supply Chain
Relevant if distribution, warehousing, or transport is growing in the area.
- Hospitality & Retail Service Training
Especially helpful for newcomers — can include customer service, food safety, and POS systems.
- Pathways for Newcomers and International Professionals
Helps residents with international credentials or those unfamiliar with Canadian systems.
- Bridge-to-Employment Programs
Combine ELL, career prep, and workplace culture orientation.
- PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition)
Evaluate and recognize previous education/work experience.
- Community & Lifelong Learning Pathway
Supports inclusion, wellness, and participation.
- Cultural Competency & Anti-Racism Workshops
Helps foster inclusivity and mutual understanding.
- Civic Literacy & Leadership Programs
Encourages participation in local government, schools, and nonprofits.
Delivery Models to Consider
- Blended or Hybrid Learning
To serve commuters, shift workers, or those with family responsibilities.
- Community-Based Classrooms or Mobile Labs
Delivered in schools, libraries, or community centres rather than central campuses.
- SAIT-Endorsed Microcredentials or Badges
Stackable toward longer-term programs or SAIT certificates.
Testing Centre
The community will use the testing centre to further access to relevant credentials.
