The W.J. Elliot Building at Olds College redefines trades education by placing student learning and craftsmanship at the forefront. The project is both a renovation and a new addition, designed to retain much of the existing structure while introducing state-of-the-art teaching environments. Central to the design is the innovative “forklift alley,” a connective spine that links classrooms and labs, creating a seamless and interactive learning experience.
Primarily a heavy-duty mechanic training facility, the building features expansive bays to accommodate combines and semi-trucks, offering students real-world, hands-on practice. Flexible learning spaces and advanced technology support the multi-functional nature of trades curricula, ensuring the facility remains adaptable to evolving program needs.
The southwest corner of the building opens onto the campus quad, referred to by the client as the “heart of campus,” through a two-storey glass wall and adjacent lecture hall, reinforcing connectivity across disciplines and fostering a stronger sense of campus community.
Key project components included an aesthetic façade refurbishment, site redesign to improve large vehicle circulation and storage logistics, and a reimagined office addition to enhance accessibility and administrative efficiency. Together, these interventions elevate both the functionality and visibility of trades education, positioning the W.J. Elliot Building as a vital hub within the campus.
Olds, AB
Olds College
