On Feb. 6, Lethbridge Polytechnic helped celebrate the grand opening of the Southern Alberta Collegiate Institute (SACI), a milestone years in the making and a powerful new opportunity for students across southern Alberta.
Located on the polytechnic campus in the former D.A. Electric Barn, SACI is more than a facility. It is a dedicated, hands-on learning hub designed to help students in grades 7 to 12 explore career pathways in trades, agriculture and health care through exploratory programming, dual credit opportunities and real-world learning experiences.
"SACI is about access and opportunity, giving students in southern Alberta a clear, supported pathway to explore their futures earlier and closer to home," says Dr. Brad Donaldson, president and CEO of Lethbridge Polytechnic. "This institution will help them discover career options and skilled trades they may not have otherwise considered."
Students will have access to industry-standard equipment and learning environments aligned with post-secondary institutions and regional employers. Whether they are exploring a career interest in junior high or earning dual credit toward post-secondary certification in high school, students can gain experience that connects classroom learning to real careers.
SACI is the result of collaboration between seven local school divisions, Lethbridge Polytechnic and CAREERS & Career Transitions. By bringing education and industry together, SACI strengthens pathways into apprenticeships, post-secondary education and in-demand careers throughout southern Alberta.
Through the E3 program (Explore, Engage, Experience), students in grades 7 to 9 can discover career pathways early, helping them build awareness and confidence as they plan their next steps. For students in grades 10 to 12, dual credit programs allow them to earn both high school and post-secondary credit simultaneously, accelerating their transition to certificates, diplomas, degrees and journeyperson certification.
The grand opening brought together students, educators, industry partners, government representatives and community leaders to mark the occasion.
"Lethbridge Polytechnic is proud to be part of this partnership," says Donaldson. "And we are excited to see the impact SACI will have on students across southern Alberta."
