Alberta 2030: New advisory council launches

The inaugural membership of the Minister’s Advisory Council on Higher Education and Skills (MACHES) has been selected and will begin meeting in early summer.

ACHES will be responsible for advising the minister about the direction of Alberta’s post-secondary system. The council will look at long-term strategic goals and ways to measure performance and best position Alberta as a national and international leader in higher education.

The new council is the realization of a flagship initiative outlined in Goal 6 of the Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs strategy, which aims to strengthen overall system governance of the post-secondary system.

“Higher education in all its forms will play a key role in the advancement and diversification of Alberta’s economy. I know that the strength and experience of those on the council will help ensure that our post-secondary system is best in class. I’m excited to begin working with MACHES as they help us realize the goals of Alberta 2030.”

Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education

“Alberta’s higher education system is at a crossroads, where developing the province’s economic prosperity meets helping each Albertan achieve their full potential. The council members are looking forward to meeting later this summer and helping to ensure the system has the support and direction it needs to build the province as a whole, as well as supporting each individual in their pursuit of a higher education.”

James Barmby, chair, MACHES

MACHES is accountable to the Minister of Advanced Education. The initial nine members appointed for a three-year term are:

  • James Barmby (chair)
  • Frank Cotae
  • Darshana Dave
  • David Finch
  • Glen Jones
  • Denis Ram
  • Anne Rimmer
  • Terry Rock
  • Elka Walsh

Biographies are available on the MACHES website.

The Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs strategy is a transformational vision and direction for Alberta’s higher education system that will develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, strengthen innovation and commercialization of research, and forge stronger relationships between employers and post-secondary institutions.