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.

• 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)