(Red Deer Polytechnic)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Essential Role

RDP holds panel discussion, honours apprentices at trades event Tuesday

Sep 23, 2025 | 4:33 PM

Attendees took part in a panel discussion that highlighted skilled trades education and the impact its had on the workforce in Alberta at Red Deer Polytechnic Tuesday morning.

The discussion titled The Essential Role of Journeypersons in Alberta’s Social & Economic Growth featured representatives from RDP’s School of Trades and Technology, Bilton Welding and Manufacturing Ltd., NOVA Chemicals and the Alberta Construction Association.

RDP says they’re Alberta’s third-largest provider of skilled trades education and that they continue to equip students with the skills and tools needed to make an impact in the province’s workforce.

As a result, RDP hosted a barbecue earlier in the day to honour its apprentices, who continue to make an impact and meet 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,” said David Pye, Dean, School of Trades and Technology at RDP. “RDP apprentices receive nationally recognized education and training from dedicated and talented instructors in collaboration with industry partners.”

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In addition to the barbecue and the panel discussion, RDP also held a trade show that featured various booths including the Office to Advance Women Apprentices Alberta, Red Deer Construction Association and RDP’s Occupational Health, Safety and Wellness.

RDP says since 2003, its apprentices have earned 94 medals at provincial and national Skills Canada events, as well as WorldSkills competitions.

RDP apprentices have claimed gold in welding at the national level in six of the past seven years including 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.