Grande Prairie Technical Institute
Empowering Students through Hands-On, Future-Focused Education.
GP Technical Institute is a non-profit, charter secondary school coming to Grande Prairie, Alberta. We are dedicated to equipping students with real-world skills, technical knowledge, and career-ready competencies. Our institution bridges the gap between traditional academics and practical, hands-on training, ensuring students are prepared for high-demand industries upon graduation.
Our immersive, experiential learning environment where students can earn industry-recognized certifications while completing their high school education.
Our approach integrates Montessori principles, AI learning, and VR technology to make technical education more engaging, interactive, and future-ready.
Our Philosophy
At GP Technical Institute, we believe education should be more than textbooks and tests—it should be a launchpad for success. Our curriculum is designed to:
- Develop hands-on skills that lead to stable, well-paying careers
- Bridge the skills gap in high-demand trades
- Foster entrepreneurial thinking with real-world business skills
- Encourage lifelong learning through micro-credentialing and professional development
- Support students holistically by integrating career coaching, personal finance training, and workplace skills
Not your Average High School
- Earn recognized trade certifications while completing high school
- Graduate with career-ready skills and practical experience
- Hands-on learning with industry professionals
- Access to cutting-edge technology and training tools
Program Highlights
Culinary Arts
Our Culinary Arts program offers hands-on experience in a professional-grade kitchen, where students work alongside experienced chefs and industry professionals. The curriculum emphasizes technical culinary skills, food safety, and restaurant operations, ensuring students graduate with both practical expertise and business knowledge. A strong focus on farm-to-table principles, sustainability, and food entrepreneurship prepares students not only for careers in the hospitality industry but also for roles in food service management, catering, and culinary innovation.
Automotive Technology
The Automotive Technology program is designed for students who are passionate about vehicles and mechanical systems. Through hands-on training in a fully equipped auto shop, students learn the fundamentals of vehicle diagnostics, repair, and maintenance, as well as modern automotive technologies such as hybrid and electric vehicle servicing. Industry-experienced instructors guide students through real-world problem-solving scenarios, ensuring they graduate with the skills and certifications required to pursue careers as mechanics, service technicians, and automotive specialists.
Metal Fabrication
Our Metal Fabrication & Welding program teaches students the skills necessary to succeed in Alberta’s booming industrial sector. Students gain hands-on experience with cutting, welding, and assembling metal structures, as well as training in CNC machining, blueprint reading, and fabrication techniques. Emphasis is placed on safety standards, precision craftsmanship, and industry certifications, making graduates highly employable in fields such as manufacturing, construction, and custom metal fabrication.
Wooden Construction
The Woodworking & Construction program equips students with the practical skills needed for carpentry, woodworking, and structural design. Students learn framing, finishing, cabinetry, and sustainable building practices through hands-on projects that mirror real-world construction scenarios. Whether aspiring to become skilled carpenters, furniture makers, or general contractors, graduates leave with the foundational knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in the construction and woodworking industries.
At GP Technical Institute, we believe education should be more than textbooks and tests—it should be a launchpad for success.
Business & Life Success is More Than Just Trade Skills
At GP Technical Institute, we go beyond technical training. We teach students how to thrive in business and life, ensuring they graduate with:
Earning a Competitive Edge
- Soft skills development – communication, teamwork, leadership
- Industry-recognized certifications for career advancement
- Personal finance & entrepreneurship training
Career-Based Future Planning & Essential Life Skills
- Resume building & job interview coaching
- Business planning & startup fundamentals
- Understanding business loans, taxes, and personal finance
- Connecting with employers & career mentorship opportunities
Declaration of Intent – Our First Steps
What is a Declaration of Intent?
The Declaration of Intent is the first step in joining GP Technical Institute. This form expresses your commitment to enrolling and helps us assess student interest and program demand.
Why Do We Need It?
In order to provide these programs in the Grande Prairie community, the Ministry of Education requires us to present evidence that there is a need & interest in the community. Your Declaration helps us ensure these programs will be available and continue to thrive in Grande Prairie for years to come.
Parent Declaration to Enroll Children in Proposed Charter School
The personal information collected on this form is collected pursuant to the provisions of the Charter Schools Regulations, and will be used for the purposes of reviewing the public charter school application as submitted by the applicants. This information will be treated in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, RSA 2000, Chapter F-25.
The following confirm that:
- he or she is the parent/guardian of the named child/children who is/are eligible to attend the proposed public charter school on opening; and
- he or she intends to enroll his or her child/children at the proposed public charter school if it is approved by the Minister.
Name of Proposed Public Charter School: Grande Prairie Technical Institute
Proposed Opening Date: September 2025