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growing workforce demand

RDP announces new Healthtech Centre

Jun 9, 2026 | 6:16 PM

A new Healthtech Centre, which officials say will serve as a major step toward addressing Alberta’s critical health care labour shortage, is launching at Red Deer Polytechnic.

Its full name is the Healthtech Centre for Applied Learning & Innovation (HCALI).

RDP calls the project transformative, noting it will add 1,000 new program seats to strengthen the regional workforce, while advancing applied research and innovation.

Within the HCALI will be the Rural and Remote Health and Wellness Centre of Excellence, which was launched last year with the help of Covenant.

At 180,000 square feet, the centre will serve as a leading hub for interdisciplinary learning.

“Central Alberta continues to face growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals,” says Stuart Cullum, President, Red Deer Polytechnic. “The Healthtech Centre will significantly expand our ability to prepare graduates for in-demand careers and support the long-term sustainability of healthcare services across our region.”

RDP also notes that with the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre expansion slated for completion around 2030, an estimated 3,600 additional health care professionals will be required to support full operations.

“The Healthtech Centre for Applied Learning and Innovation will be instrumental in developing the skilled workforce required for Red Deer Regional Hospital’s expansion and for healthcare delivery across the province,” comments Karen Foudy, Senior Operating Officer, Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre and Sylvan Lake Advanced Ambulatory Care, Alberta Health Services.

ACI Architects Inc. will begin to design the new facility immediately.

For project updates, visit rdpolytech.ca/healthtechcentre.