Spartan Controls Ltd. CEO Mike Begin has been appointed as chair of the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) Polytechnic Board of Governors effective immediately.

"Mike Begin is well-respected and has long been a supporter of education and a community advocate," said Advanced Education and Technology Minister Doug Horner. "He brings in-depth knowledge and a wealth of experience to his role as chair, which will greatly benefit the students and staff of SAIT."

Begin has supported SAIT in multiple advisory roles, including the Chairman's Circle Advisory, vicechair for SAIT's Invest in Technology Campaign, and vice-chair on the Board of Governors. His involvement in education initiatives has helped develop programs, provide equipment, and build partnerships with industry at numerous post-secondary institutions around the province. He is also active in various charities such as the United Way, Alberta Children's Hospital, and Canadian Blood Services. Prior to his current role at Spartan, Begin has held several executive positions internationally. He is an engineering graduate from the University of Waterloo.

Begin replaces Doug Mitchell, who has been chair of SAIT's Board of Governors since June 2002.

Strengthening post-secondary education is one of the key actions under Premier Ed Stelmach's plan to build a stronger Alberta. Other priorities for the government are to govern with integrity and transparency, manage growth pressures, improve Albertans' quality of life and provide safe and secure communities.

About Spartan Controls

Spartan Controls sells, applies and services products that measure, control, and automate processes for the process industries in Western Canada and has been a very active supporter of SAIT, other educational institutes, charities and community causes.  Dedicated to delivering great service and value, Spartan serves the oil and gas, power, pulp and paper, mining, chemical, water treatment and other process industries.  As well, Spartan continually invests to provide differentiated local support for their customers.   Information on the company is available at www.spartancontrols.com.

About SAIT

SAIT Polytechnic has maintained a close association with business and industry to ensure graduate success since 1916. SAIT offers 66 certificate, diploma, and applied degree programs as well as 33 apprenticeship programs, 300 distance education courses and 2,000 continuing education and customized corporate training courses. SAIT offers training in 27 countries around the world and has more than 76,000 registrants each year.  Information on SAIT is available at www.sait.ab.ca.