Laurie Guthrie's Legacy Supports Keyano College Trades Students

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A well-known figure in Fort McMurray's trades community, Laurie Guthrie has left a lasting impact on Keyano College with a generous donation from his estate. This endowment will generate four $2,000 annual awards for unsponsored steamfitter/pipefitter and welding students in their first three years of study. Importantly, two of these awards will support Indigenous and female students, reflecting his dedication to diversity and inclusion in the trades.

Beyond his professional success, Laurie was a devoted family man and lifelong philanthropist. His commitment to charity was rooted in the values he learned early in life. Whether supporting education, the Stollery Hospital, or global efforts in places like Kazakhstan and Chad, his giving spirit extended far beyond Fort McMurray. The Guthrie family continues to honour his legacy of generosity, ensuring that his positive impact reaches communities near and far.

Laurie’s connection to Keyano College was deep. In the 1960s, he was part of the very first plumber/pipefitter course that Keyano offered, marking the start of his lifelong involvement with the college. After founding Guthrie Mechanical Services Ltd. (GMS) in Fort McMurray in 1971, he became a long-time supporter of Keyano, consistently contributing to its mission of fostering skilled trades professionals.

The Guthrie Awards are unique, as they honour top academic achievers and the most improved students who have demonstrated the greatest dedication to learning. This aligns with his belief in hard work, perseverance, and the transformative power of education in the trades. He often encouraged young people to pursue journeyman certification, emphasizing the lifelong value of having a Red Seal trade.

His contributions to the trade community extend beyond financial generosity. Laurie was instrumental in helping countless young people launch their careers through apprenticeships at GMS. His legacy continues through the Guthrie Awards, providing much-needed economic relief to students pursuing their passion for the trades. Keyano College is deeply grateful for this generosity and the lasting impact it will have on our students and community.