The memorandum of co-operation will pave the way for an increase in Aurora College's abilities to prepare Northerners for jobs in the electronics and mining trades.

"The agreement grew out of a number of successful programs with NAIT," said Tim Gauthier, public affairs officer for Aurora College.

Gauthier pointed to the pre-technology program, which prepares people for a science and math background, as the best example.

The agreement will help the college respond to changes in the labor market by allowing them access to technical programs, an experienced staff and qualified instructors.

All credits from courses taken at Aurora college are transferrable to NAIT.

NAIT is the third-largest post-secondary school in Alberta, with 1,700 employees, 85 two-year diploma and one-year certificate programs, 35 apprenticeship programs and part-time studies through continuing studies.

"This agreement between Aurora College and NAIT will help both institutions provide students and industry with the training they need to succeed," said Sam Shaw, NAIT president.

"Building partnerships with industry, business and other post-secondary institutions is crucial to our future success."

Parker said he wants more programs delivered close to home, his motivation for establishing the agreement.

"We want our students to have access to more training opportunities, and this agreement will see more joint NAIT-Aurora College programs delivered in the North," said Parker.

"With enhanced transfer agreements, it will also be easier for graduates to go on to further eduction at NAIT."

NAIT and Aurora signed another deal Tuesday with the NWT Mine Training Committee.

With the opening of the BHP Diamonds project and the Diavik diamond project expected to come on line in a few years, opportunities for Northerners to get jobs in the mining sector are increasing, said Parker.

This tripartite agreement will help mining companies find workers in the North instead of having to look to the South.

"It's a win-win situation as far as we're concerned," said Dan O'Neil, secretary of the Mine Training Committee.

Comprising BHP and Diavik representatives, Darryl Beaulieu, Mike Paulette, Ted Blondin and Mike Vadik, the committee was set up a year ago by Education Minister Charles Dent to develop mine training programs.

O'Neil said they were pleased when NAIT announced it is interested in coming up with programs in the North that would develop into diplomas recognized by the mining industry.

When can Northerners expect mine trades courses at Aurora College?

"Ideally we would like to see it in the fall," said O'Neil.