OLDS — Olds College of Agriculture & Technology has a new dean of its School of Trades and Skills: Dennis Beaudoin.
Beaudoin replaces former dean Dan Daley, who also serves as an Olds town councillor.
Daley 60, retired Jan. 6 after a 32-year career at the college, including 11 years as dean of the School of Trades and Skills.
Beaudoin began his new post Jan. 3. He has a red seal in plumbing, gasfitting, steamfitter-pipefitter and welding. He also has 20 years of experience as a post-secondary instructor and administrator.
Beaudoin most recently served as the associate dean of the School of Trades and Skills. Before that, he was dean of Trades and Technologies at Medicine Hat College.
“We are delighted to announce Mr. Beaudoin as the new Dean of the School of Trades and Skills,” Debbie Thompson, vice-president, academic & student experience, said in a news release issued Jan. 11.
“Trades and apprenticeship learning continue to be an important program offering at Olds College.
“As we continue to work with the government of Alberta to offer new education credentials developed as part of the Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act, we need strong leaders like Mr. Beaudoin who bring a wealth of experience in both the trades and post-secondary industries."
The School of Trades and Skills provides students with education in a variety of trades and apprenticeships, using the newest equipment, the news release says.
The school is also home to the following programs: the brewmaster and brewery operations management, hospitality and tourism management, transitional employment and the farrier program.
“I am extremely excited to carry on the great work that has been happening within the school of Trades and Skills,” Beaudoin said in the release.
“I believe that with the team we have, the industry support and the level of commitment to providing a quality learning experience for our students, it will allow us to pivot and shape our ever-evolving programs.
“I look forward to being a part of a growing and relevant post-secondary institution like Olds College."
During an interview with the Albertan, Daley said although he is now retired, he won’t be away from the college for very long.
He will be doing some contract instruction in February and March.
He will also be spending lots of time on his duties as town councillor.
Daley was asked if he’ll miss being dean of School of Trades and Skills.
“It definitely was a great position and it was a great organization to work for, but I’m excited for what the future holds for me as well,” he said.
