News Archives: Fairview Celebrates First NWP Graduates
Saturday, March 12th, 2022
Brad Olson, Valedictorian and ThinkBIG Service Technician diploma graduate.
Just days after unveiling a new look and polytechnic direction, Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) is celebrating again. The institution honoured the very first class of NWP graduates at Fairview campus this weekend in the Fred Speckeen Theatre.
NWP President and CEO Justin Kohlman addressed the graduating class of approximately 290 students during his first convocation as President but also, the first ceremony to occur under the institution’s refreshed Northwestern Polytechnic moniker.
“This has truly been an epic year for our students, staff and learning community and today you are making history,” said Kohlman. “The graduating class of 2021-22 will forever be the first class to emerge triumphantly from Alberta’s newest polytechnic.”
This year’s Valedictorian was ThinkBIG Service Technician diploma graduate, Brad Olson. Olson, who has completed his NWP credentials with academic excellence, was honoured to represent his fellow classmates.
Olson, originally from Yellowknife decided to enrol in Fairview’s ThinkBIG program after expressing interest in completing his Heavy-Duty Mechanic certification.
“My friend asked me if I had heard of the ThinkBIG program,” said Olson. “I hadn’t but once I checked it out and saw the employment possibilities, I decided to enrol.”
Moving from the Northwest Territories to Alberta was a big deal for Olson, but he said that Alberta and the Town of Fairview has quickly become his home away from home.
“Fairview may be small, and in the middle of nowhere,” Olsen said with a laugh. “But there’s a strong sense of community here. Each of us have had our own unique experiences here, where we’ve met new people, developed lifelong friendships and made some great memories to cherish as we continue onto the next chapter in our lives.”
Olson acknowledges the many sacrifices and challenges his classmates have made to achieve today’s milestone. “We’ve all had to face challenges over the last two years head on, not knowing what might be in store for us,” he continued. “But the uncertainty of COVID-19 did not stand in our way of achieving our goals. Every single one of us has pulled through this pandemic stronger than when we went into it. We have shown ourselves, and the world, how resilient we can be.”
“I would like to send my gratitude to my fellow classmates, and my instructors, who have made all of our futures that much brighter,” finished Olson. “You have inspired us to keep moving forward and to succeed no matter what obstacle we may encounter.”
Graduating students, family members and honorary guests in attendance of convocation were invited to a Graduate’s Reception after the ceremonies in NWP Fairview’s Atrium.
Visit www.nwpolytech.ca/livestream to celebrate our graduates.
