HUMBOLDT — A new technical training centre in Humboldt is being positioned as a key response to Saskatchewan’s growing demand for skilled labour, backed by a multi-million-dollar partnership between government, industry and education leaders.
The BHP Technical Training Centre, announced May 1 at the former Peavey Mart building, will expand Carlton Trail College’s campus and increase access to trades and technical training across central Saskatchewan according to the Government of Saskatchewan.
The Government of Saskatchewan has committed nearly $4 million to the project while BHP is contributing $1.9 million toward the facility. The company’s total investment in trades training initiatives in the region now approaches $8 million.
Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said the project represents a model partnership.
“This is a unique partnership, but one that we herald,” Cheveldayoff said, adding it reflects what employers across Saskatchewan are seeking — workers trained with job-ready skills.
The facility will transform a former retail warehouse into a modern, flexible learning space designed to adapt to changing workforce needs. Training will support sectors experiencing strong growth, including mining, manufacturing, agriculture and health care.
Carlton Trail College president and CEO Amy Yeager said the project marks a major milestone.
“It really is a dream come true — for our industry, for our community, for our partners, and especially for our learners,” Yeager said.
She said the centralized facility will allow the college to offer more programs at once while creating a collaborative learning environment where students across different disciplines can train together.
Industry involvement is also a key feature of the centre.
BHP representatives say the company is helping shape training to ensure graduates are prepared for real-world roles, particularly in high-demand trades such as industrial mechanics and electrical work.
Mike Moscarda spokesperson for BHP said the investment is aimed at both immediate and long-term workforce needs.
“We won’t solve it overnight, but over the mid-term and over the years, this will start to support some of the real demand and challenges that we have,” he said.
He added that building local talent remains a priority for the company, which is developing the nearby Jansen potash project.
“Our priority is working with the community, building that capability and investing locally,” Moscarda said.
The centre builds on an existing partnership between BHP and Carlton Trail College, including the launch of the BHP Potash Academy in 2025, which provides industry-aligned training for mining careers.
Yeager said support from both government and industry was critical to making the project possible.
“It wouldn’t have been able to happen without them,” she said, noting the partnership benefits not only mining but also other regional industries.
The facility is expected to help meet labour demands tied to major economic activity in the region. Cheveldayoff noted there are currently more than 60 major projects underway or planned across Saskatchewan, many near Humboldt.
“This is a best-case scenario — a model that will be used across the province,” he said.
Renovations on the training centre are expected to begin this summer, with the facility slated to open in fall 2027.
