RDP Employee Receives Leadership Excellence Award

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 with guidance, expertise and access to technology as they work on capstone projects. Cafferata also played an integral role in the establishment of a permanent Makerspace in the Polytechnic’s Library, providing learners with the opportunity to explore and create in a supportive and innovative environment. 

Cafferata has been a member of RDP’s Research Ethics Board and Research Showcase Planning Committee. She has also helped to create and enhance research policies and procedures.  

As co-chair of the Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network, Cafferata has advocated for creating stronger ties between Technology Access Centres and the Alberta Regional Innovation Networks. This connection provides opportunities to showcase RDP’s expertise and advance applied research.  

As one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Polytechnics and Colleges, Red Deer Polytechnic focuses on five areas of research: Advanced and Additive Manufacturing, Sustainable Energy, Health Care and Community Wellness, Resiliency and Child Advocacy and Environment and Ecology. 

All recipients, including Cafferata, were honoured at the 2024 CICan Awards of Excellence Lunch, which was held at Calgary TELUS Convention Centre on April 30.  

More information about the CICan Awards of Excellence, including the list of recipients, is available online.