Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) continues to grow its impact and capacity as one of Canada's Top 50 Research Polytechnics and Colleges, recognized by Research Infosource Inc.
Ranked 31st overall, up from 43rd last year, RDP attracted more than $4.6 million in applied research investment in 2024. This represents an increase of more than 93 per cent from the previous year, placing RDP third in research income growth among polytechnics and colleges nationwide.
"We are honoured to be recognized nationally for the strength and growth of our multi-disciplinary, collaborative applied research," says Dr. Tonya Wolfe, Associate Vice President of Applied Research, Red Deer Polytechnic. "This achievement underscores RDP's commitment to advancing innovation and creating meaningful impact, addressing industrial and societal challenges while driving economic prosperity across Alberta and Canada."
The Polytechnic also ranked fifth in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Research Partnerships (eight) and fifth in AI Completed Research Projects (six). One example of this work is RDP's contributions to the Fortis Tensionometer project. Red Deer Polytechnic staff are developing a spool in/spool out system that feeds a drone carrying lines between power poles that are located across challenging landmasses, assisting with the installation of power lines. While the spool motor's control and operating systems are not AI- driven, RDP is leveraging AI to accelerate firmware development - a process that was previously time- intensive.
"Being ranked among Canada's Top 50 Research Polytechnics and Colleges underscores the impact of Red Deer Polytechnic's industry focused applied research activity," comments Stuart Cullum, President, RDP. "As a polytechnic focused on economic and social development, our institution will continue to grow its applied research capacity and activity, to enhance the productivity of Alberta's key industries, while providing an enriched learning experience for our students."
Applied research thrives across RDP, with the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing - Technology Access Centre (CIM-TAC) and the Energy Innovation Centre (EIC) serving as flagship facilities for research, teaching and learning.
The CIM-TAC, which houses $7.6 million in advanced manufacturing equipment, completed 47 projects with 54 companies and had 1,757 engagements with business and industry partners during 2024-25. With a $12.9 million investment from the Government of Alberta, RDP's CIM-TAC is expanding from 15,000 square feet to 25,000 square feet, increasing its applied research, education and training capacity. This expansion will support a range of sectors through advanced manufacturing capabilities, including agriculture, energy innovation and healthcare.
RDP focuses its applied research within four areas of focus: Advanced Manufacturing, Healthcare and Health Technology, Energy Innovation and Social Innovation. For more information about applied research and innovation at the Polytechnic, including how to bring your research, project or idea to life at RDP, please visit: rdpolytech.ca/research.
