At the Suncor Firebag Airport in Fort McKay, Alberta, everyday actions are helping create meaningful opportunities for the future.
Acden Base Operators (ABO), which has provided Airfield and Facility Management Support Services at the site since 2016, continues to support the local community through an ongoing vending machine donation program. Each year, 10% of vending machine sales are directed toward education initiatives within the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN).
In 2025, this initiative contributed $3,500 to ACFN’s post-secondary education program. The program currently supports approximately 60 full-time students by helping cover tuition costs and living expenses—removing barriers and enabling students to focus on their educational and career goals.
“ABO is proud of the positive impact our partnership between Acden and Canadian Base Operators continues to create for ACFN members,” said Marley Lafortune, CBO Site Manager. “This donation is one meaningful way we can give back to the community and help strengthen opportunities for students and future leaders.”
The ACFN Post-Secondary Education Program plays a critical role in building long-term community strength, supporting members as they pursue careers across a wide range of fields.
“ACFN’s Post-Secondary Education Program invests in our members so they can build careers, confidence, and stability for their families,” said Michelle Voyageur, ACFN Chief of Operations. “A donation to education is an investment in long-term community strength by creating teachers, health professionals, tradespeople, administrators, and future leaders from within our Nation.”
Information about the vending donation program is displayed throughout the Firebag Airport terminal and on vending machines, helping to raise awareness among travelers and staff while reinforcing a shared commitment to community impact.
Through initiatives like this, ABO continues to demonstrate how small, everyday contributions can add up to meaningful change—supporting education, opportunity, and future generations within the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation.
About Acden Base Operators
Acden Base Operators is a limited partnership between Canadian Base Operators, a Black & McDonald affiliated company, and Acden, the 100% community-owned business of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. The partnership was founded in 2020 and currently operates an aerodrome on behalf of their client, a major oil producer.
About Canadian Base Operators
Canadian Base Operators provides critical site support services and operations across Canada, emphasizing safety, collaboration, inclusion, and strong community partnerships.
To learn more about Acden Base Operators, visit: acden.com/acdenbaseoperators
