Strathcona Resources makes its first donation to Saskatchewan Polytechnic with investment in the province’s important energy sector and future workforce

November 2025

Saskatchewan Polytechnic has received a transformative $1-million gift from Strathcona Resources in support of the new Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus. This marks Strathcona Resources’ first contribution to Sask Polytech and underscores its commitment to Saskatchewan’s energy sector and the future workforce that drives it.

In recognition of this generous gift, two Power Engineering Technology classrooms at the new campus will be named the Strathcona Resources Power Engineering Technology classroom.

“This investment is about much more than a building. This new campus means more opportunities for students, more graduates ready to make an impact, and ultimately, stronger communities across the province,” says Dale Babiak, chief operating officer, Strathcona Resources. “We’re thrilled to stand alongside Sask Polytech in helping students gain the skills and confidence to rise, succeed, and build a bright future.”

“We are incredibly grateful for Strathcona Resources’ commitment to the Time to Rise campaign and to our students,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO. “Today marks the beginning of a strong, enduring partnership. Saskatchewan is a formidable yet understated force in Canada’s energy landscape, and Strathcona’s generous gift puts Sask Polytech and Saskatchewan on the map, while preparing the skilled workforce on which our energy future depends.”

Saskatchewan’s oil and gas industry is a cornerstone of the provincial economy. In 2024, it contributed $11 billion, approximately 13 per cent of the province’s total GDP. Strathcona Resources is one of North America’s fastest growing pure play heavy oil producers.

This gift to Sask Polytech is an important investment in Saskatchewan and in the province’s future energy workforce. It will help create modern learning environments, hands-on training opportunities and access to technologies that prepare graduates for technical careers in the evolving sector. It ensures students are trained using the latest tools and processes, positioning them at the forefront of energy innovation and sustainability.

More than 400 Sask Polytech graduates each year find employment in industries within the energy sector. Programs such as Power Engineering, Industrial Mechanics, Instrumentation Engineering, Welding and Fabrication and Chemical Technology all include classroom learning components that prepare students for careers in the industry.

The Time to Rise campaign aims to empower Sask Polytech graduates and strengthen the provincial economy. The Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus will consolidate an existing network of decentralized, outdated buildings into a modern, technology-rich learning environment, increasing program capacity for more students.

Learn more about the campaign and the Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus at timetorise.ca.