From Concrete to Community: The WIC Transformation

Calgary's Industrial Core is Turning into a Hub of Education

Three decades ago, if you found yourself in Calgary’s southeast industrial district, you probably weren’t looking for a school. You might’ve passed rows of warehouses, stacks of shipping containers, or the hum of machinery—but nestled quietly among it all was a vision taking root. 

Since 1993, West Island College (WIC) has been rewriting the story of this corner of the city—transforming it from concrete and industry into a dynamic hub of education, innovation and community. And with every new addition to its campus, that vision grows stronger, more vibrant, and more reflective of WIC’s purpose and spirit. 

A Major Step in WIC’s Growth 

In 2003, the campus more than doubled in size with the purchase of the former Andres Wines facility. Today, that space is known as the Grant Building—home to key areas of student life and learning, including the Performance Centre, the Learning Commons, and the Hall of Nations. While the building has been fully transformed, it still retains a piece of its history: the original wooden ceiling from the Andres Wines era remains, adding warmth and character to the space. 

The Wolves Den: A Space Reimagined 

When The Athlete Factory—a premier fitness facility near campus—unexpectedly shut down, WIC seized the moment to transform uncertainty into opportunity. The school acquired the expansive 30,000-square-foot space, along with all its top-of-the-line equipment, and by February 2022, it reopened as The Wolves Den Hub. 

Now outfitted with state-of-the-art amenities, The Hub has become central to the physical growth and overall wellness of WIC students. It’s where strength is built, skills are sharpened, and confidence is cultivated. Once home to elite athletes, the space now empowers the next generation of WIC leaders — students grounded in fitness, discipline, and resilience. 

Building on the success of The Hub, WIC took over the Dogtopia daycare next door and completely remodeled it—stripping it back to the studs to make room for something new. 

By January 2023, the once-empty building reopened as The Wolves Den Corner—a vibrant extension of the campus. Today, it houses six modern classrooms equipped with top-of-the-line technology, alongside a dynamic open workspace where students collaborate, connect, and thrive. 

Growth Takes Root: The WIC Greenhouse 

Adding to the momentum of 2022, the College's evolution took on new life — with the arrival of the WIC Greenhouse, a 40-by-65-foot structure donated by Sprung Structures. What began as a new addition quickly became a living classroom, where students explore sustainability, innovation and the natural world up close. 

From providing fresh ingredients for a delicious soup that is served at Open House to being the backbone of the seasonal markets to decorating cherished events like Grandparents’ Day, the Greenhouse has become a vibrant part of campus life.

A Field Becomes the Heart of Campus 

It started as a parking lot. Now, it’s the centre of campus energy. 

The opening of WIC’s full-sized athletic field in May 2025 didn’t just add more space—it transformed how students move, connect and experience school life. On any given day, you’ll see teams running drills, students soaking up the sun between classes, a friendly match unfolding during lunch or even students playing in the snow during the winter. 

But this field is more than a place to play. It’s a statement. A commitment to wellness, belonging, and school spirit. It brings people together—whether they’re competing, cheering, or simply stepping outside for a breath of fresh air. 

It’s a space that moves us forward—physically, socially, and as a community. 

A Wall That Tells a Story 

This past spring, we celebrated a powerful milestone: the unveiling of our Field Donor Wall—a lasting tribute to the incredible community that made our athletic field possible. An underused area of campus has been completely transformed into a dynamic space for sport, teamwork, and community. The wall doesn’t just acknowledge support; it honours the collective generosity, vision, and belief that brought this project to life. It stands as both a work of art and a symbol of what we can achieve together. 

A Place Reimagined, A Future Redefined 

Together, these developments are a part of a larger story—one of growth, transformation, and dedication to a holistic educational experience. What was once a forgotten industrial corner is now a thriving, purpose-driven space where students learn, grow, and lead with confidence, preparing them to be bold, brave and ready. 

Contributor

Jordan Rebagliati
Communications Officer