News

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) continues to increase practical learning opportunities for students with the launch of a two-year Executive Assistant Diploma program in Fall 2024 Term. The Executive Assistant Diploma program builds on the Polytechnic’s one-year Administrative Professional Certificate . Students will expand their knowledge and skills in several areas of business that include accounting, computer software training and human resources. Graduates of RDP’s Administrative Professional Certificate are eligible to enter the second year of the Executive Assistant Diploma. “As a polytechnic, we are proud to offer enhanced education, training and applied research opportunities among a growing breadth of credentials,” says Dr. Robbie Halonen, Dean, Donald School of Business, Science and Computing. “The new Executive Assistant Diploma will help to increase the employability and earning potential of graduates while helping to fulfill the demand of Alberta’s labour market.” As essential members of professional workplaces, executive assistants provide exceptional management and human resources skills to help foster productive work environments. Throughout the diploma program, students will develop skills in communication, technology and relationship building to effectively support senior executives and colleagues. In addition, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings through work-integrated learning. These

Red Deer Polytechnic is pleased to announce Isaac Nyamekye as our institution’s new Executive Director, Institutional Planning.  “I am pleased to welcome Mr. Nyamekye to Red Deer Polytechnic. As a collaborative leader in institutional research, planning and analytics, Mr. Nyamekye has a proven track record of leveraging data to inform strategic enrolment management and enhance efficiencies in project management. His strong leadership in institutional planning and research will support the important work we are doing to achieve our 2030 Strategic Plan: Productivity and Social Impact.”  - Patrick Machacek, Vice President, Development and Partnerships. Mr. Nyamekye joins RDP from Athabasca University where he was Director of Institutional Research and Data Analytics. In that position, he fostered a culture of data-informed decision-making and data literacy across the university.   Prior to that role, he held positions of Manager of Institutional Data Analysis at Athabasca University, along with Senior Analyst of Program Analytics and Evaluation for the Government of Alberta. Mr. Nyamekye implemented business intelligence solutions that helped to increase operational efficiencies.  “I am excited to join RDP at this important time. I look forward to forging relationships across the institution and collaborating with the RDP community to drive evidence-based decision-making, continuous improvement, effective

At the Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) Athletics Awards student-athletes who competed on the RDP Royals Rodeo and Dance teams were recognized for their individual and team accomplishments during the 2023/2024 season. At the event, multiple awards were handed out, including the All Around Cowboy and Cowgirl along with additional Rodeo and Dance team awards. Trina Carroll, RDP Royals Program Lead, explained she was extremely proud of both the Dance and Rodeo teams and their accomplishments this season. “It was a big one and a little overwhelming. Our Rodeo team competed at the Canadian Collegiate Rodeo Association’s first-ever collegiate event held at the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Red Deer while our Dance team performed on the national stage when the Polytechnic hosted the Women’s Volleyball National Championship. Hard to sum it all up, other than being extremely proud of how they all represented Red Deer Polytechnic. Student-athlete Cayden Nickel took home the All Around Cowboy Award. After a successful 2022/2023 season when he earned first in Steer Wrestling and second in Tie Down Roping, Nickel had another impressive campaign, winning his way to the Canadian Collegiate Finals Rodeo (CCFR), once again. At the CCFR in Brooks this past weekend, Nickel put

Alberta’s government is expanding student capacity and creating a modern learning environment at Red Deer Polytechnic that will help graduates succeed in the economy of tomorrow. To support emerging opportunities for students, Alberta’s government will invest $12.9 million to expand the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing Technology Access Centre (CIM-TAC) at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP). CIM-TAC is an applied research and innovation centre that gives companies access to state-of-the-art prototyping and manufacturing equipment, along with a multi-disciplinary team with the expertise to turn brilliant ideas into market-ready products. As Alberta’s economy grows and diversifies, job creators will increasingly seek employees with the skills required to work in advanced manufacturing. Construction will begin in early 2025 and will increase the centre’s applied research, education and training capacity. The expanded CIM-TAC will grow to provide work-integrated learning opportunities for an estimated 450 post-secondary students and training through workshops and events to an additional 2,000 students annually by 2030. Additionally, more than 500 junior and senior high school students will take part in dual credit programs at the CIM-TAC. “Investing in this expansion of CIM-TAC will give students at RDP access to cutting-edge technology and skills to succeed in the economy of tomorrow

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) has received a significant boost in education and cultural enrichment with a generous $250,000 pledge from ScotiaRISE, Scotiabank’s social impact initiative that helps remove barriers to career advancement and employment. The funding will contribute to the establishment of the Land Based Learning and Reconciliation Initiative that aims to create a dedicated space on campus for learning, community engagement and the promotion of Indigenous traditions and teachings. “Elders and staff at RDP have identified an on-campus location which is an ideal setting for an Outdoor Learning Space, located on the south side of the campus adjacent to Waskasoo Creek, the space features a natural amphitheater, pathways and ample open space suitable for a range of programming,” comments Lloyd Desjarlais, Dean, Indigenous Initiatives. “The space, surrounded by abundant wildlife and access to naturally growing medicinal plants sacred to Indigenous communities, will serve as a dynamic venue for integrating cultural and Indigenous perspectives across all of our academic programs.” Stuart Cullum, President of Red Deer Polytechnic, emphasized the significance of Scotiabank's contribution: "We are immensely thankful for this generous donation from Scotiabank, which will allows us to offer distinct educational and cultural experiences to our students, faculty, staff, and

Recently, Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) provided opportunities for students to explore career pathways and engage with central Alberta employers at its 2nd Annual Education and Career Expo. Almost 3,000 middle and high school students, along with current RDP learners, attended the interactive event, which featured 53 employers from the region. “The Education and Career Expo provided an immersive platform for youth to create industry connections and to receive guidance in achieving their career aspirations,” says Chad Flinn, Associate Vice President, Academic. “At Red Deer Polytechnic, we provide enhanced education, training and applied research opportunities that prepare students to become leaders in their careers and contribute to the economic prosperity of Alberta.” The Education and Career Expo offered unique experiences for attendees that extended beyond a traditional career fair. Students had opportunities to attend presentations, labs, interactive demonstrations and career spotlights, which provided insight into specific occupations. In addition, students were able to engage with RDP faculty and staff from a range of programs to discuss educational pathways that will help fulfill their goals. “As a polytechnic institution, we are proud to offer more than 80 industry-relevant programs across a breadth of credentials that prepare graduates to help fulfill labour market

Inclusion Alberta has acknowledged Dr. Dan Haas, Associate Dean, School of Arts and Education at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP), with a Community Inclusion Award.   Dr. Haas was recognized for creating an inclusive community for individuals with developmental disabilities.  “We are so proud of Dan for his exemplary work as a teacher and leader at RDP, and are chuffed that Inclusion Alberta has recognized him as one of their own,” says Dr. Jonathon Penny, Dean, School of Arts and Education.   As an advocate of inclusive post-secondary education, Dr. Haas has positively impacted the lives of students with diverse needs since he began working at RDP in August 2017. He has been a champion for including students with intellectual disabilities in the humanities and all programs of study.   “Dan is deeply convinced of the importance of the humanities to every person and is committed to ensuring that people have the opportunity to read, think, talk, and practice those arts as they learn and as they live,” adds Penny. “He works hard to include students who face unique barriers to learning.”   Dr. Haas eagerly collaborates with a variety of stakeholders to enhance experiences for RDP learners with intellectual disabilities through inclusive programming, services

Alicia Cafferata has been recognized by Colleges and Institutes Canada ( CICan ) for her extraordinary contributions to Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) and innovation communities.   Cafferata, an Applied Research Specialist in RDP’s Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing – Technology Access Centre ( CIM-TAC ), was named the silver recipient of the Leadership Excellence Award for Non-Managerial Staff.   CICan, of which RDP is a member, presents the Awards of Excellence annually to highlight the role of institutions in social, cultural and economic development.  “I want to congratulate Alicia on receiving this prestigious honour,” says Dr. Tonya Wolfe, Associate Vice President, Applied Research. “She has played a pivotal role in championing our institution in advancing our applied research capacity, enhancing opportunities for students and contributing to the communities we serve. Her leadership in regional innovation and entrepreneurship is outstanding.” Through expertise and persistence, Cafferata has helped the Polytechnic receive several grants and awards that are collectively valued at nearly $5 million. These funds have helped to upgrade technology in the CIM-TAC and grow applied research at RDP, addressing challenges in society and industry.  Since Cafferata began working at RDP in 2008, she has supported students in multi-faceted ways. She has provided learners

Red Deer Polytechnic continues to provide opportunities for students to engage in applied research that advances the economic and social priorities of communities.   Recently, Red Deer Polytechnic hosted the Student Science Conference and Agora Conference which celebrated and shared the research that was conducted by RDP learners.   “As a polytechnic institution, we provide enhanced education, training and applied research opportunities that prepare students for the workforce and meet the needs of industry,” says Chad Flinn, Associate Vice President, Academic. “The Student Science Conference and Agora Conference showcased diverse projects and applied research that was conducted by students in several academic disciplines, complementing their education and helping to create real-world solutions.”  At the two-day Student Science Conference, attendees were able to view a range of posters and discuss the findings with student researchers. Guests also had opportunities to expand their learning by attending formal student presentations on a variety of scientific topics.   In addition, the Student Science Conference featured keynote speaker Dr. Jeff Biernaskie, Professor of Comparative Biology & Experimental Medicine at the University of Calgary. Dr. Biernaskie’s research focuses on stem cell biology and tissue regeneration in the skin and brain.  The Agora Conference also provided opportunities for RDP students

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) and FortisAlberta have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions by renewing their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for an additional five years. The renewal marks the continuation of a productive partnership that leverages both organizations' strengths in innovation and sustainability. Janine Sullivan, President and CEO of FortisAlberta, expressed her enthusiasm for the extended partnership: “When I reflect on Red Deer Polytechnic’s 2030 strategic plan and their focus on energy innovation, it’s clear that our organizations are aligned. We are both community builders with a commitment to learning and we are working towards managing an evolving energy landscape to enable a positive future for Albertans.” Stuart Cullum, President of Red Deer Polytechnic, also shared his vision for the partnership's impact: "This renewed agreement between RDP and FortisAlberta extends our collaborative efforts to innovate within the energy sector. Our joint initiatives are set to enhance our campus as a living lab, where new sustainable technologies not only take shape but also lead to practical applications in our communities." The signing demonstrates the commitment of both institutions to push the boundaries of energy innovation and to support energy innovation applied research. This renewed MOU underscores Red Deer Polytechnic’s

Recently, Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) hosted a successful Earth Day Open House in the Alternative Energy Lab (AEL), welcoming community members and stakeholders to explore the Polytechnic’s sustainability initiatives. The AEL, which is a component of RDP’s Energy Innovation Centre (EIC), serves as a research, teaching and data hub to increase knowledge about alternative energy technologies. The Earth Day event demonstrated RDP’s commitment to environmental responsibility and its role in advancing renewable energy solutions. "Our participation in Earth Day events is important," says Dr. Tonya Wolfe, Associate Vice President of Applied Research at RDP. "The EIC fosters collaboration between industry partners like FortisAlberta and CBI Solar, and our applied research directly contributes to developing innovative solutions for a more sustainable future." Red Deer Polytechnic’s commitment to this avenue of applied research is evidenced by the nearly 4,200 solar panels installed on main campus. The panels, along with a combined heat and power unit, generate 60 per cent of the Polytechnic’s power. A lab scale geothermal unit is operational in the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre for research and demonstration purposes. Red Deer Polytechnic also hosts a battery storage system and has plans to install two heat pumps soon. In

Red Deer Polytechnic Kings Hockey goaltender Arik Weersink (Kinesiology and Sports Studies) has created a lasting impact on and off the ice. At the start of the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) season, Weersink committed to donating a dollar for every save he made during the regular season to the Alberta Sports and Recreation Association for the Blind (ASRAB). ASRAB is a not-for-profit organization that provides sports and recreation opportunities for blind and partially sighted Albertans to promote physical and mental wellness. The fifth-year goaltender made 265 saves in 11 games played during the regular season while steering aside 141 in the playoffs and leading the Kings to back-to-back championships and their 10th gold medal in program history. On top of his personal donation, the Logan Boulet Inclusive Education Fund supported Weersink with a 50-cent donation per save during the season, bringing the total gift to more than $600. Dustin Butterfield, ASRAB’s Director of Competitive Sport, explained this donation will make an impact on and off the ice. “This donation will go towards ice time and is almost enough for two practices. This contribution also helps to lower participant fees which keeps the parasport of Blind Hockey accessible.” Butterfield added