Saskatchewan Polytechnic students put their ideas to the test, with more than 80 applied research projects on display at this year's Applied Research Student Showcase.
A total of 110 students took part, tackling real-world challenges with practical, innovative solutions that highlight the growing impact of student-led research.
Projects covered a wide range of fields, from artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing to health, education, Indigenous knowledge and environmental sustainability. Each one developed alongside industry and community partners to address real needs.
"It's inspiring to see the innovative applied research and capstone projects our students have created," says Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO. "Industry partners turn to Sask Polytech for its applied expertise. The projects at this year's showcase demonstrate practical solutions, giving students valuable real-world experience and a head start as they enter the workforce."
"The enthusiasm and commitment students bring to their applied research projects is exciting," says Dr. Ian McWilliams, associate vice-president, Applied Research and Continuing Education. "It's a strong reminder of the impact applied research can have in our communities and beyond. Congratulations to each of the students in this year's showcase."
Midway through the day, attendees heard from 23-year old Kyle Sava, manager and lead architect at IBM Canada who shared insights on how generative AI and large language models are shaping the future of work. Drawing on his experience building IBM's watsonx Workshop and teaching technical subjects internationally, Sava emphasized making AI accessible and encouraged students to build confidence alongside technical skills.
Sask Polytech presented 10 awards totalling $7,400 to showcase winners. Many students also received a scholarship valued up to $1,000 to support their research projects during the academic year, while others presented capstone projects or unique research conducted through Sask Polytech's research centres.
2026 Applied Research Student Showcase Winners
Health and social
First ($1,000)
- Abimbola Adegboyega-Abel
- Project: An evidence-based review of leadership micro-credential models and organizational needs in the Moose Jaw Police Service
- Program: Leslie and Irene Dube School of Nursing/SCBScN Nursing
- Description: This project reviews existing micro-credential models and compares them with the needs of Moose Jaw Police Service. The goal is to provide recommendations on relevant leadership development planning that aligns with organizational needs and future workforce development.
Second ($800)
- Kim Elaschuk
- Project: PERIOD. Degendering menstrual products
- Program: School of Creative Media, Arts and Sciences/Graphic Communications
- Description: Today, not everyone who menstruates identify as feminine. Even if they do, femininity, much like tampons, is not one size fits all. This project seeks to de-gender menstruation products, reduce period stigma and leave outdated stereotypes behind.
Third ($500)
- Gopika Ajay, Neethu Kaippetty Sathyavan, Shylash Subramania Pillai
- Project: Little steps
- Program: School of Computing and Digital Innovation/Technology Management
- Description: Little Steps is a structured digital support platform developed to improve access to reliable maternal and childcare resources. The project addresses the fragmentation of localized support services by centralizing essential information and tools within one accessible and organized system.
Sustainability and environment
Technology
People's choice
High school students from Bedford Road Collegiate also attended the showcase. Seeing applied research in action, these students received insight into post-secondary learning options at Sask Polytech.
The showcase is supported by presenting sponsor Graham Group Ltd., with awards sponsored by Innovation Saskatchewan. SaskWheat provided meals, while Associated Engineering, Crestline and Labs4 supported the event as partners.
All Images credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic
For more information
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www.saskpolytech.ca
