RDP Empowers Youth at Education and Career Expo

May 06, 2024
Group of students lines up in front of a both showcasing Red Deer Polytechnic programs

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 demand,” adds Flinn. “Through our growing partnerships, we provide opportunities for students to engage with industry, including work-integrated learning, practicums and collaborative applied research.” 

As part of the event, Indigenous high school students had the opportunity to attend the 4 Directions Workshop, which featured Indigenous speakers who shared their educational and career journeys.  

A Young Women in Trades and Technologies Spring Camp was also held on campus in conjunction with the Education and Career Expo. This camp, which was hosted by CAREERS, provided opportunities for females in grade 10-12 to explore careers in skilled trades and technologies, interact with mentors and identify a path for an internship. 

RDP is the third largest provider of skilled trades education in Alberta, training more than 2,000 apprentices in 2023/2024. Red Deer Polytechnic offers 17 apprenticeship programs, which include Automotive Service Technician, Cook and Welder. 

The 2nd Annual Education and Career Expo was coordinated by RDP’s Career Education and Experience Development (CEED) Centre in collaboration with colleagues across the institution. The CEED Centre is a centralized hub on main campus that offers career education services to help meet the needs of students, alumni, employers and organizations. 

The Education and Career Expo was partly funded by the Alberta Government’s Jobs Economy and Trade (JET). 

Learn more about the 2nd Annual Education and Career Expo.

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