RDP Instructor Enters Alberta Trades Hall of Fame
Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) instructors continue to earn recognition for their industry-leading expertise and unwavering commitment to advancing skilled trades education. Among the recent honourees is Ken Heather, retired RDP Welding instructor and WorldSkills Canada Expert, who was recently inducted into the Alberta Trades Hall of Fame. The ceremony, which also acknowledged Dave King and Fred Richardson as inductees, was held at Red Deer Polytechnic.
The Alberta Trades Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to skilled trades across the province. These leaders play a vital role in mentoring others, helping to fulfill labour market demands and driving the province’s economic prosperity.
“Ken’s induction is a testament to his incredible impact,” says David Pye, Dean, School of Trades and Technology, Red Deer Polytechnic. “Through his knowledge, skills and ability to mentor apprentices, Ken continues to shape the future of Alberta’s skilled labour force.”
Heather’s legacy at RDP spans more than 25 years. His commitment to excellence began in 1997 when he volunteered at both the Provincial and National Skills Competitions. Since then, he has remained actively involved, including serving as an Expert at six WorldSkills Competitions—most recently at the 2024 event in Lyon, France. Experts are responsible for coordinating training and evaluating top-tier performance in their respective trades. Heather’s contributions have helped elevate the standards of welding education provincially, nationally and globally.
Red Deer Polytechnic’s reputation for excellence is further reflected in the achievements of its apprentices. Since 2003, RDP apprentices have earned 94 medals in Provincial, National and WorldSkills competitions, showcasing the institution’s sustained success.
Continuing this tradition, Lucas Stang captured gold at both the Skills Canada Alberta and Skills Canada National Competitions in 2025. He will represent Red Deer Polytechnic and Canada at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, from September 22 to 27, 2026. Stang’s accomplishment adds to RDP’s impressive record in welding, with apprentices securing national gold in six of the past seven years.
As the third-largest provider of skilled trades education in the province, RDP’s apprenticeship programs continue to thrive. In the Fall 2025 Term, nearly 1,700 students enrolled across 17 programs, with further growth anticipated throughout the academic year.
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