RED DEER POLYTECHNIC
RDP joins Amii's AI workforce readiness program to equip students with future-ready skills

Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) continues to affirm its position as a leader in innovation, advancing Alberta's productivity through the strategic integration of education, hands-on training and applied research. As part of its commitment to preparing students for the future of work, RDP has joined the inaugural consortium for the AI Workforce Readiness (AIWR) program, which is a national initiative led by Amii (Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute), one of Canada's three national AI centres and a recognized leader in AI literacy.

This strategic partnership places RDP at the forefront of a transformative movement in post-secondary education. Supported by Google.org, the AIWR program brings together 29 Canadian polytechnics, colleges and universities, collectively representing more than 500,000 students. The initiative aims to close the national AI skills gap and equip the next generation of workers with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital economy. With an anticipated reach of 125,000 students annually, the program promises to make a significant impact across the country.

"We are excited to participate in Amii's AI Workforce Readiness consortium to provide opportunities for our learners to make an impact in AI and innovation in their careers and communities," says Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Experience, Red Deer Polytechnic. "By integrating education, training and applied research opportunities with technology, Red Deer Polytechnic helps to address the social and economic priorities of the province and nation."

As a member of the consortium, Red Deer Polytechnic has an opportunity to send subject matter experts to work with Amii's machine learning educators to collaborate in dedicated working groups. This effort will result in the creation of AIWR Curriculum Resource Packages, which are specialized, open-source teaching materials designed to seamlessly integrate relevant AI skills and knowledge into existing RDP programs and courses.

These resources will further enhance RDP's polytechnic mandate, which emphasizes applied, experiential and innovative learning. Graduates will be better prepared to live, work and collaborate in a digital world. Each curriculum package will include a rich array of learning assets, such as reading and discussion materials, real-world use cases and case studies, as well as videos, activities and lab assessments.

"Amii's goal has always been to make AI education accessible, and the AI Workforce Readiness program is the culmination of that commitment. We are excited to work with our inaugural group as part of a growing national network," says Cam Linke, CEO, Amii. "By fostering a strong national collaboration, we are directly addressing the urgent AI skills gap and empowering both instructors and students especially those in underserved communities with the necessary AI literacy skills and resources. This foundational work ensures that post-secondary students across the country are equipped for the future of work."

Red Deer Polytechnic is proud to be part of this strong national network that is leading the way in building Canada's AI-ready workforce. Through its continued investment in innovation and collaboration, RDP reinforces its role as a catalyst for economic and social advancement in Alberta and beyond.

More information about research and innovation at RDP is available at: rdpolytech.ca/innovation.