APEGA and NorQuest College Partner on Engineering University Transfer Certificate Program

Prospective engineering students have a new educational option thanks to NorQuest College’s Engineering University Transfer Certificate program, recently created with the help of APEGA, the program’s catalyst sponsor for the next three years.

The year-long program was announced on March 12, 2025, and is unique to Edmonton. It fills a gap in post-secondary education by providing an option for interested students who may not qualify for more competitive programs, or those who prefer smaller class sizes with more educational supports.

A perfect fit to encourage equity

The program aims to provide more opportunities for women, Indigenous students, and underrepresented groups to start careers in engineering by addressing known barriers to enrolment, such as competitive entry, returning to school as a mature student, or feeling uncomfortable in mainstream programming. This is partly achieved through the program’s “first-qualified, first-accepted” approach, and by providing smaller class sizes, personalized study plans, and accessible learning pathways from application to program completion.

This sponsorship continues APEGA’s long-time support of people from underrepresented communities looking to pursue careers in engineering and geoscience, with a focus on Indigenous Peoples and women. In 2010, APEGA set a goal of having women compose 30 per cent of licensed professionals in engineering and geoscience by 2030. And by educating permit holders, registrants, and staff about Indigenous Peoples’ histories, meaningful consultation, and equitable access to education and jobs, APEGA hopes to increase representation of Indigenous communities in the professions.

In addition, thanks to a partnership with the University of Alberta (U of A), students who complete the Engineering University Transfer Certificate program with a minimum 2.5 grade-point average can transfer directly into their second years of engineering studies at the U of A.

Meeting the demand for professionals

Incoming APEGA Council President Terri Steeves, FEC, FGC (Hon.), P.Eng., ICD.D, celebrated this step in reducing educational barriers at the program’s launch event, explaining, “Engineering is about solving real-world problems, designing resilient communities, and driving economic growth. To do these effectively, we need a workforce that reflects the diversity, the talent, and the perspectives of the communities we serve.” She highlights that whether it’s encouraging mature students to return to school, helping students obtain their high school prerequisites, or supporting underrepresented groups entering a profession, it all adds up to a more diverse and prosperous Alberta.

Rajan Sawhney, former minister of advanced education, also attended the event to show the Government of Alberta’s support for the program. She applauded the creation of this new opportunity for students and how it will meet the demand for professional engineers in Alberta.

Inclusion for positive change

The 40-student cohort starting the program in September 2025 will include Kui Karuga, a Grade 12 student at Paul Kane High School, who says engineering is a great match for her interests and skills.

Karuga knows women are underrepresented in the engineering professions and considers being a minority in her studies a positive challenge. She’s excited about the opportunities this new program will bring to her life. “I’m a competitive person, so when I see places that don’t have as many women, or aren’t as inclusive, I think, I’m going to make a difference, I’m going to step up and become one of those few people.”

Resources

• Read NorQuest College’s scholarship announcement
• Visit the NorQuest College Engineering University Transfer Certificate program page