NAIT, a leading polytechnic, has been a major contributor to industry and the economy within Alberta for the past 55 years. Having built its first campus in 1962, NAIT has continued to grow and expand to meet industry and student demand.  As stated by President and CEO, “NAIT exists to serve Alberta and its people to meet the current and emerging needs of this province.  NAIT belongs to the province and people of Alberta.  Every decision we make has been informed by this simple fact.”

NAIT, operating as one of two polytechnics in the province of Alberta, describes the polytechnic learning experience as:

• delivering technology based education across all its programs
• the education is experiential and hands-on
• working in partnership with industry
• the applied research solves real problems

NAIT’s Vision

To be the most relevant and responsive post-secondary institution in Canada and a world leading polytechnic by 2021.

NAIT’s Values

Respect:  To treat each other with respect, including behaviours of honest, integrity, transparency, trust, and an appreciation for diversity.

Collaboration:  To work together to advance NAIT and its academic mission in fostering relationships and in building community.

Celebration:  To come together in fun and enjoyment to recognize accomplishments and successes and to show appreciation.

Support:  To support people through empowerment, providing a safe and caring workplace and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Accountability:  To be accountable, individually and collectively, to each other and to NAIT for our actions and for achieving our promises.

NAIT developed its Vision and its 2021 Strategic Plan by engaging all stakeholders including over 3200 students, staff, alumni, Board of Governors, government, industry partners, the NAIT Academic Staff Association, the NAIT Students’ Association, Alberta Union of Public Employees (AUPE) and other stakeholders.   What became of this was, NAIT 2021; the Strategic Plan that is built on the four promises of NAIT:

The Promises

Promise to Alberta:  NAIT meets the current and emerging needs for polytechnic education and applied research in Alberta.  NAIT is relevant and responsive and provides outstanding technical education. While servicing the needs of Alberta, NAIT is globally competitive and recognized.

Promise to Students:  NAIT provides a positive student experience that encompasses students’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being and defines success broadly.  NAIT prepares students to succeed in meaningful careers, find employment in their chosen field and have the skills necessary to have an immediate impact.

Promise to Industry:  NAIT produces an exceptional skilled workforce, aligned directly to industry needs.  NAIT’s programs are developed with industry’s input and the research is industry-driven to create enterprises that compete worldwide.

Promise to Staff:  NAIT will continue to be one of Canada’s outstanding places to work, which follows from a culture of how we work together.  This culture reflects the values of respect, collaboration, celebration, support, and accountability.

For further information on the NAIT, please visit their website at www.nait.ca.