Local news delivered daily to your email inbox. Subscribe for FREE to the rdnewsNOW newsletter.
(Supplied)
RDP TO HOST IN 2025

Alberta polytechnics partner for second annual Alberta Corridor Technical Symposium

Sep 18, 2024 | 4:42 PM

Experts in applied research from across Alberta gathered for the second annual Alberta Corridor Technical Symposium on Sept. 17, an event created through a partnership between Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP), the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT).

This year’s event was titled “Research Matters: Empowering Alberta Through Innovative Solutions,” and brought together students and applied researchers to present their cutting-edge, industry and community facing applied research projects.

“Our collaboration across polytechnics and colleges has never been stronger in driving impactful results for Alberta’s economy,” said Olle Lagerquist, associate vice-president of industry solutions at NAIT, which hosted this year’s event. “Through applied research and close partnerships with industry and communities, we are fostering innovation and addressing real-world challenges and today’s symposium highlights the power of our collective efforts and how our institutions are supporting Alberta.”

Organizers say the projects presented explored a wide range of topics including medical device innovation and assistive technology for long-term care patients. Students also had a chance to showcase their own research on topics like para-sport equipment design and energy innovation.

“Alberta’s polytechnics are at the forefront of applied research, providing essential capacity and industry partnerships that fuel a thriving economy,” said Dr. Tonya Wolfe, associate vice-president of applied research at RDP. “Red Deer Polytechnic, a leader in advanced manufacturing, sustainable energy and social and healthcare innovation, is proud to collaborate with SAIT and NAIT to showcase the groundbreaking research shaping Alberta’s future.”

The annual symposium began in 2023, with the first iteration being held at SAIT.

“The annual Alberta Corridor Technical Symposium brings SAIT together with our provincial polytechnic partners to showcase industry-driven research and solutions across the various disciplines supporting Alberta’s economy,” said Jamie McInnis, director of applied research and innovation services at SAIT. “With a focus on empowering Alberta through innovation, the opportunity to share applied research and connect outcomes to real-world problems will continue to propel industry forward. Through this network, we are collectively positioning Alberta as a leader in research and innovation.”

RDP is slated to hold the symposium on its main campus in 2025.

For local news delivered daily to your email inbox, subscribe for free to the rdnewsNOW newsletter by visiting rdnewsNOW.com. You can also download the rdnewsNOW mobile app on Google Play and the Apple App Store for all the latest updates on this and other stories.