Fueling Alberta’s Workforce: RDP's Skilled Trades Education Powers Economic Growth

Sep 23, 2025
Members from the community and RDP sit on a stage with a sign that reads "Apprenticeship Appreciation Day"

(l-r): Brad Williams, Vice President Operations, Bilton Welding and Manufacturing Ltd.; David Pye, Dean, School of Trades and Technology, Red Deer Polytechnic; Scott Buckley, Maintenance Team Leader, NOVA Chemicals; Warren Singh, Executive Director, Alberta Construction Association

As Alberta’s third-largest provider of skilled trades education, Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) continues to equip students with the expertise needed to make a meaningful impact in the province’s workforce. In celebration of this commitment, RDP hosted a barbecue today to honour its apprentices, recognizing their dedication to their craft and their vital role in meeting labour market demands across Alberta and Canada.

“We are excited to acknowledge Red Deer Polytechnic’s apprentices who demonstrate high-level expertise and leadership throughout their training as they prepare for in-demand careers,” says David Pye, Dean, School of Trades and Technology, Red Deer Polytechnic. “RDP apprentices receive nationally recognized education and training from dedicated and talented instructors in collaboration with industry partners.”

The celebration extended beyond the barbecue, offering attendees a chance to engage in a thought-provoking panel discussion titled The Essential Role of Journeypersons in Alberta’s Social & Economic Growth. The panel featured Pye alongside representatives from Bilton Welding and Manufacturing Ltd., NOVA Chemicals and the Alberta Construction Association. Their insights reinforced RDP’s mission to deliver advanced education, training and applied research opportunities that respond to Alberta’s evolving social and economic needs.

Complementing the discussion, a tradeshow showcased a range of booths, including the Office to Advance Women Apprentices Alberta, Red Deer Construction Association and RDP’s Occupational Health, Safety and Wellness. These exhibits fostered valuable connections among apprentices, industry professionals and organizations within the skilled trades community.

RDP’s reputation for excellence in trades education is reflected in its impressive track record. Since 2003, its apprentices have earned 94 medals at Provincial and National Skills Canada events, as well as WorldSkills competitions, highlighting the calibre of training offered. Notably, RDP apprentices have claimed gold in welding at the national level in six of the past seven years. Among them is Lucas Stang, who secured gold in May 2025. He will represent both Red Deer Polytechnic and Canada at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, from September 22 to 27, 2026.

RDP has welcomed more than 1,670 students across 17 skilled trades programs in Fall 2025 Term—a 21 per cent increase from the previous year. Skilled trades enrolment is expected to grow throughout the year, reflecting the Polytechnic’s expanding influence in trades education.

Learn more about RDP’s skilled trades programming. 

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