Carlton Trail College is celebrating a monumental milestone this year as it marks its 50th anniversary. The event has been a chance to reflect on the college’s significant growth and contributions to the region, with President and CEO Amy Yeager noting the importance of commemorating this landmark occasion.
"Our 50th anniversary was a landmark opportunity for us to highlight the many things that we've done over the last 50 years," Yeager said. "It was a time to reflect on the past but also look forward to the future."
In celebration, the college hosted a series of appreciation events, culminating in the creation of two commemorative art projects, created by local artists Kayla Hanson and Murray Cook. These initiatives engaged students, staff, and the broader learning community, reflecting the college's deep roots and vibrant presence in the area.
Yeager emphasized the significance of these projects, stating, “What finalized it all was the creation of two commemorative art projects that engaged our learning community, our students, and our staff.”
The anniversary celebrations also provided a platform to discuss Carlton Trail College's forward-thinking initiatives, such as their new focus on international students. In June 2024, the college received designation from both the provincial and federal governments to accept international students. This new designation opens the door to enrolling students in the college’s Caregiver and Community Assistant (CCA) program, which will begin in the fall of 2025.
“This is a first for us,” Yeager explained. “We're really excited about the opportunity to welcome international students into our community. We're on track to have about 10 international students starting with us in 2025. Beyond just increasing enrollment, this will also contribute to supporting our healthcare system by providing a new generation of workers.”
Trades training remains another focal point for Carlton Trail College, as it continues to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in the region. Yeager shared that the college is planning to expand its trades facility in Humboldt to accommodate this growing need.
“Trades training continues to grow in importance within our region and our province,” she said. “We're working to grow our capacity within the organization, including the potential expansion of our trades facility here in Humboldt."
Additionally, the college has formed a new partnership with the mining sector, specifically with BHP, to provide essential training for workers in the mining industry. Yeager noted, "We are partnering with BHP to put on programming starting in the new year, and we’re looking forward to that as a key opportunity for workforce development."
With its 50th anniversary marking a time of reflection and forward momentum, Carlton Trail College is poised to continue its legacy of fostering education and workforce development for years to come.