Breaking ground for future lift off

With the subtle roar of engines in the distance, Mount Royal University joined government and aviation leaders to break ground on the Alberta Training Centre of Excellence for Aviation and Aerospace, marking the start of construction on the state-of-the-art facility near the Calgary International Airport.

Bright red ceremonial shovels moved the earth, signifying a pivotal transition from planning to action for the multimillion-dollar project, a partnership that was announced in September of 2025 and highlighted collaboration between MRU, the Government of Alberta, CAE, WestJet, and the Calgary Airport Authority.

The facility, scheduled to open in 2028, will house eight full flight simulators, cabin trainers and other digital learning tools. It will have the capacity to train approximately 6,000 professionals each year. The Centre will serve as a premier hub combining advanced professional flight training equipment with collaborative research and development.

“Mount Royal University shares this inspiring vision for the future of aviation education in Alberta,” said Dr. Tim Rahilly, president and vice-chancellor of Mount Royal University. “Breaking ground with our partners today officially turns that ambition into reality for our students, the industry, and the region. We really are setting a new standard for aviation education in Canada.”

Funding from the Government of Alberta and the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund will support new faculty positions focused on flight training research and hands-on learning experiences.

Through this collaboration, MRU students will gain access to cutting-edge simulation technology supplied by CAE, alongside scholarships and networking opportunities with key industry players, while faculty will gain opportunities for research into flight training.

WestJet’s Airline Transition Program will connect classroom instruction with direct mentorship from industry professionals in airline operations, technical training, and Q400 simulator instruction, creating clear pathways for graduates to step directly into commercial aviation careers.

“As we continue to educate the leaders of tomorrow, access to state-of-the-art flight training and stronger industry connections will equip our students with essential advantages as they enter the workforce. Collaborative research initiatives with our partners will foster ongoing innovation in aviation education, supplying the industry with highly qualified professionals prepared to meet expanding demand,” said Kelly Williams-Whitt, dean of MRU’s Faculty of Business, Communication Studies and Aviation.

The Alberta Training Centre of Excellence elevates MRU’s aviation offerings and equips the next generation of pilots and aerospace leaders to propel the industry forward with safety, innovation and excellence.

The facility will be the first of its kind in Canada to combine state-of-the-art training equipment with collaborative research and development initiatives. Mount Royal and its partners look forward to a future of continued growth, innovation, and educational excellence in the heart of Alberta's aviation community.