Keyano College Kicks off 60th Anniversary with Awards, Gala, and Community Celebration.
May 6, 2025, Fort McMurray
Keyano College proudly celebrates 60 incredible years of learning, leadership, and community spirit. Since opening its doors in 1965 as the Alberta Vocational Centre and officially becoming Keyano College on May 9, 1975, our institution has been rooted in a powerful mission: to uplift northern Albertans by equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Before 1965, the people of Northern Alberta, many of whom relied on hunting, trapping, and fishing, faced an economic shift driven by the rise of the Oil Sands industry. As J.W. Shields, our first Principal, wrote in 1966: "The economic boom in Fort McMurray is destroying an old way of life, and many men find themselves with skills no longer useful to them if they wish to remain and compete in this area's economy."
The Alberta Vocational Centre set out to accept all learners willing to grow from just three Atco trailers, offering hands-on trade training and academic upgrading. By its grand opening in 1966, 76 full-time trainees were enrolled, with 43 in residence, many from remote communities as far as Fort Vermilion and Pincher Creek. Eighty percent of the first students were Indigenous or Métis, underscoring a commitment to access and inclusion that remains central to our mission today.
The first graduating class—13 welders—completed their program during the same week as the grand opening. A ceremonial chain cutting with a welding torch marked the occasion, nodding to their work.
As we honour this legacy, we're excited to announce a series of initiatives that celebrate our past while investing in the future:
60 Students for 60 Years
The Keyano Board of Governors Local Leaders Entrance Award will recognize sixty exceptional local students for their dedication and commitment to the Wood Buffalo community. This recognition will be awarded to individuals who represent the Wood Buffalo region through activities such as extracurricular pursuits, volunteer work, military service, or community initiatives and comes in the form of a $1,000 education voucher, usable for tuition or books.
Expanded Alumni Recognition Awards
Keyano College is proud to launch an expanded Alumni Awards Program to recognize and honour outstanding graduates who have made a lasting impact in their professions, communities, and beyond. From rising stars to community champions, these awards will celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our alumni—past, present, and future. Nominations open now and will close June 30, 2025.
Gala 2025 – Diamond Masquerade
This year's Keyano Gala promises to be an unforgettable night of elegance, mystery, and music –all in celebration of a sparkling milestone. In honour of Keyano College’s 60th anniversary, we invite you to the Diamond Masquerade, a black-tie evening during which guests are encouraged to add a touch of sparkle and intrigue with their finest masquerade masks. The diamond, a symbol of strength and endurance, reflects both the legacy and the bright future of our institution.
As Keyano’s largest annual fundraiser, the Gala plays a vital role in supporting student success and educational excellence in our region.
We're thrilled to announce that Trooper, one of Canada's most iconic rock bands, will headline the evening's entertainment, with talented country artist Tyler Whelan opening the show.
Gala tickets will go on sale in July 2025 — we can't wait to welcome the community to our signature event of the year.
Community BBQ Celebration – September 2025
We're inviting everyone to come together for a Community BBQ this September! It will be a fun, family-friendly afternoon filled with great food, live music, activities, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect and celebrate 60 years of memories. Alumni, students, families, and friends — this day is for you. Stay tuned to Keyano’s Facebook and LinkedIn accounts for more details.
A Message from Keyano College
"Sixty years ago, we began with a simple goal — to serve the people of Northern Alberta. Today, we're proud to continue that legacy as Keyano College, growing and evolving alongside the people and industries of Wood Buffalo," said Dr. Sandra Efu, Interim President & CEO. "This anniversary is a celebration for all of you — the students, employees, alumni, donors, and community members who made Keyano what it is today. We're excited to celebrate together and look ahead to an even brighter future" Dr. Efu added.
To learn more about the 60th Anniversary events, scholarship opportunities, and Gala details, please visit www.keyano.ca/60th and follow Keyano College on social media.
About Keyano College:
Keyano College, located in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, serves students through its Clearwater Campus and Suncor Energy Industrial Centre in Fort McMurray, Alta. The college meets industry training needs and community enrichment by offering certificates, diplomas, trades qualifications, and degrees. Programs span energy, construction, business, health, arts, sciences, education, and more. Dedicated to lifelong learning, Keyano College increases access to post-secondary education, professional development, corporate training, Indigenous education, and Regional Stewardship programs in northeastern Alberta.
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Media Contact:
Chantal Beaver
Associate Vice President, Public Engagement
Keyano College
Chantal.Beaver@keyano.ca
Keyano College Kicks Off 60th Anniversary 
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