Keyano 60th Anniversary

Back then, Fort McMurray was changing fast. The oil sands were ramping up, workers were arriving from across the country, and a small training centre — the Alberta Vocational Centre — was trying to grow into something more.

Chris had been working at the University of Alberta’s media centre when he heard about a job in Fort McMurray. The Northern Living Allowance got his attention, but it was the chance to help build something new that convinced him. He moved north in 1977 and joined Keyano as an audio-visual technician.

At that time, Keyano was still operating out of trailers. The only real building was the Heavy Industrial Campus — what we now call the Suncor Energy Industrial Campus. But even with the bare-bones setup, there was a sense of purpose. The College was growing, and it mattered.

In 1978, Keyano officially became a public college with its own name and local board. That change brought some challenges. Staff had to decide whether to stay with the provincial government or commit to this new version of Keyano. Most chose to stay — Chris included.

He wasn’t just along for the ride. Chris helped shape what Keyano became. He was part of the group that started the staff union, making sure employees had a voice and could build a workplace rooted in fairness and respect. It was one of many quiet contributions he made during his four decades at the College.

Old Tech, New Ideas, and Friday Night Flags

Chris’s career started with reel-to-reel projectors and slide carousels. Over the years, he and the college adapted to every shift in technology — VHS tapes, DVDS, digital media, and online learning. His role changed too, eventually moving into IT support and later into facilities. No matter the job, he stuck with it, making sure the people around him had what they needed to succeed.

But for Chris, it was never just about the work.

Back in the early days, Friday nights became a kind of tradition. The receptionist would raise a small flag at the front desk to show which pub they’d meet at that night. Some staff would swing by for a quick drink. Others stayed until close. It didn’t matter where you were from — everyone was welcome. Over time, those nights turned coworkers into close friends, and friends into chosen family.

Even now, Chris stays connected. He meets up with fellow retirees at the Legion, where they laugh, remember the good times, and reflect on how much Keyano meant to them — and still does.

Still Rooted, Still Growing

It’s easy to tell Keyano’s story through timelines, buildings, or big milestones. But the truth is, the College has always been about people-the ones who showed up, rolled up their sleeves, and helped build something that mattered.

People like Chris Chesterman.

He didn’t just witness Keyano’s transformation — he was part of it. And through his steady presence, his adaptability, and his friendships, he left a mark that’s still felt today.

As we celebrate 60 years, we’re not just looking back at where we came from. We’re remembering who helped us get here.

And we’re grateful.

What began as a simple sketch on a napkin—a single fieldhouse—became a world-class facility thanks to the vision and dedication of Wayne Thomas. Under his leadership, that dream expanded into a multi-purpose complex featuring three fieldhouses with turf, synthetic, and hardwood surfaces, an indoor running track, a fitness centre, and supporting facilities. The banners lining the walls of the hardwood court stand as testaments to his efforts, for without Wayne, Huskies Athletics would not exist, nor would their induction into the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC).

One only needs to compare the past and present to truly appreciate Wayne's impact. Once used by the recreation department, the old junior high gym has been replaced by the Syncrude Sport and Wellness Centre (SSWC), a cutting-edge facility serving students, employees, and the wider community.

However, Wayne did not build this legacy alone. Fitness and wellness have always been integral to the centre, and Wayne notes the development of its programs and facilities was made possible through the efforts of many, including former Fitness Manager Dayna Sinclair. She was instrumental in shaping the fitness and wellness components of the SSWC, ensuring that they remained a core part of the centre's identity. Programs like Be Fit for Life and the Alberta Sport Development Centre (ASDC) played a significant role in this mission, further enhancing opportunities for students and the community.

Reflecting on his time at Keyano, Wayne remarked, "That was the uniqueness and beauty of Keyano College—they brought up a lot of us, and we got to create everything from the ground up."

When Wayne started, he had only one recreation assistant, Greg Martin, and Wayne also oversaw the bookstore. Over the years, his responsibilities included the Cafeteria, Fitness, Housing, Facilities, and Health Services. Yet, working at Keyano was never just a job for Wayne—it was being part of a family.  "That's the beauty of Fort McMurray and Keyano College," Wayne reflected. "People like me got a job and look at all the opportunities I had. It was a great place to raise my family and a great place career-wise."

A Dream on a Napkin Becomes Reality

In the 1980s, Wayne earned his second degree from the University of Alberta, during which he actively participated in track and field at the Kinsmen Field House. Back at Keyano, over coffee with colleagues, he shared his dream—drawing a fieldhouse on a napkin and envisioning a future where Keyano College had its own. That idea gained momentum when key figures like Guy Boutilier, Bob Campbell, and Leo Robert recognized the community's need for recreation facilities. A cabinet minister at the time, Guy saw an opportunity and suggested, "Maybe we can make that work. We should build it at the college—have you seen the gym they perform in? They need a new gym."

Doug McRae, another key advocate, tirelessly showcased the need for better facilities for visiting government officials. Wayne recalls, "Doug would give a tour, and twice, I know for sure, the minister would look at him and say, 'Okay, we got the message, Doug. This is the second time we've seen this gym.'" The persistence paid off, and the dream on a napkin became a reality.

The Birth of Huskies Athletics

As Recreation Coordinator, Wayne was committed to providing students with athletic opportunities. When Keyano joined the ACAC in 1985, most of the college's programs were short-term, focusing on College Preparation and Trades, posing a challenge for participation in team sports. Due to the student turnover, the college initially focused on bowling, badminton racquetball, and curling. Eventually, the decision was made to introduce volleyball, which sparked controversy. Many influential voices had hoped for basketball, but Wayne prioritized the students' interests—volleyball had greater popularity among them at the time.

The early days of Huskies Athletics were fraught with challenges, particularly in recruiting athletes when most students only remained at the college for a semester or a year. However, Wayne's determination never wavered. Even when others considered quitting, he remained steadfast. "We couldn't quit participating because if we quit, they'd never want us back again. Believe it or not, they didn't really like driving up to Fort McMurray in -30°C to play volleyball in a little junior high gymnasium," he recalled with a smile.

A Lasting Legacy

Wayne Thomas’ influence on Keyano College Athletics extends far beyond its formative years. His leadership was not just about securing a place in collegiate sports but about fostering a culture that prioritized both athletic excellence and personal growth.

"His legacy is evident in the continued success of Keyano College’s teams, the dedication of its coaches and staff, and the unwavering support of the local community," said Jonathan Lambert, former Keyano College Athletics and Recreation Director. "The culture he cultivated remains a driving force, inspiring student-athletes to push their limits, support one another, and excel on their team. His influence is felt not just in the banners hanging in the gymnasium but in the attitudes and ambitions of every student-athlete who wears the Huskies uniform."

Wade Kolmel, Athletics and Recreation Director at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), who worked closely with Wayne, echoed similar sentiments. "Wayne Thomas was a fixture of our Campus Life department, often strolling the halls and cheering for the Huskies. An instructor with a sport development, community focus. He has a saying, ‘how can we help our team get one extra point?’ That mindset resonates with me today, and I appreciate how he balanced a commitment to student life alongside the passion that comes with driving a varsity team. The success of the Huskies today is rooted in the foundational elements Wayne Thomas created during his time at Keyano."

Wayne Thomas’ dream, once sketched on a napkin, has become an enduring reality. His passion for sport, education, and community remains a guiding principle at Keyano College, ensuring that future generations of Huskies continue to build on his legacy.

• Must be a resident of Wood Buffalo for a minimum of 1 year. 
• Must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or, if a local international high school graduate, have parents or caregivers who are alumni of Keyano College. 
• Must be entering the first year of full-time study in an eligible program.
• Must be attending post-secondary education for the first time.
• Must demonstrate local participation in activities representing the region positively, including, but not limited to, military services (including cadet programs), secondary school programs, extracurricular excellence, civic leadership, community service, and/or volunteer work.

• The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes the accomplishments of a Keyano College graduate who brings a legacy of excellence to college. This esteemed honour recognizes former students who have influenced their communities, excelled in their professional fields, and positively impacted the lives of others.  
• The Rising Star Award recognizes a Keyano College graduate under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership and significant contributions to an area of expertise early in their profession or other endeavours. The recipient will have shown significant success at an early age or in a new industry. 

• The Volunteer Service Award recognizes a Keyano College graduate who has demonstrated a spirit of volunteerism and community service through active, unpaid involvement in and contributions to his or her community and/or at Keyano College.
• The Future Alumni Award recognizes the leadership, service and potential of a current Keyano College student who has completed a minimum of 15 course credits at Keyano College. The recipient of this award will have demonstrated academic excellence and substantial contributions to his or her community or career while balancing the demands of student life. (Nominations for this award will only be accepted from Keyano staff/faculty/CUPE/SAKC.) 
• The Honorary Alumnus Award: This category encompasses non-alumni. Keyano may recognize an individual who has made significant contributions to the Keyano community. (Nominations for this award will only be accepted from Keyano staff/faculty/CUPE/SAKC)