Alberta's energy landscape is transforming at a pace that demands bold ideas, cross-sector collaboration and a workforce ready to lead. Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) has stepped confidently into that space, positioning itself as a catalyst for innovation, productivity and a driver of economic growth. The Energy Innovation Fair, held February 25 on RDP's main campus, showcased how the institution and its partners are shaping the province's energy future through expert insights and meaningful conversations.
Industry panelists share their insight with attendees during Red Deer Polytechnic's Energy Innovation Fair (left to right): Chelsah Thomas (Sol Invictus, standing at podium); Ryan Donald (FortisAlberta); Juan Monterossa (Alberta EcoTrust); Keren Perla (Energy Futures Lab); and Bill Whitelaw (Rextag Energy)
"When we bring industry, researchers and communities together, we accelerate the pace at which ideas become real-world solutions," said Dr. Tonya Wolfe, Associate Vice President, Applied Research, Red Deer Polytechnic. "Events like this demonstrate how collaboration drives Alberta's energy future forward."
The Fair highlighted Alberta's unique position at the epicentre of energy development. Long known as a resource powerhouse, the province has emerged as a hub of technological advancement. Designed to build on that momentum, the event connected industry leaders, entrepreneurs, municipalities, researchers, businesses and engaged citizens. This convergence of perspectives is essential for developing, commercializing and adopting creative energy solutions that will strengthen Alberta's competitive edge.
RDP demonstrated strong leadership throughout the program, driven by its commitment to innovation and industry collaboration. Through the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing-Technology Access Centre (CIM-TAC) and the Energy Innovation Centre, the institution advances applied research, accelerates technology development and empowers companies to scale their ideas into market-ready solutions.
The Fair also underscored the importance of leveraging Alberta's deep expertise in oil and gas while expanding into new frontiers such as carbon capture and utilization, renewable energy, circular-economy solutions and digital technologies. This dual focus, honouring the province's strengths while embracing diversification, is central to long-term economic resilience. RDP plays a pivotal role in this transition by educating and training the workforce, supporting applied research partnerships and creating opportunities for students, faculty, staff and industry to collaborate on cutting-edge projects.
The event's lineup reflected the breadth of Alberta's energy innovation. From Justin Riemer's keynote on technologies driving economic and sustainability leadership to discussions on Indigenous energy perspectives, the Fair offered a comprehensive look at the forces shaping Alberta's future. The day concluded with the Green Gala Awards, celebrating individuals and organizations advancing sustainability and energy diversification, a testament to RDP's commitment to recognizing and amplifying innovation.
Ultimately, the Energy Innovation Fair was more than a conference. It was a statement about Alberta's role in energy innovation and RDP's impact as a leader. By building connections, training workers and championing forward-thinking solutions, Red Deer Polytechnic is helping ensure that Alberta does not simply adapt to the future of energy but helps define it.
Red Deer Polytechnic and ReThink Red Deer recognized leaders in energy innovation during the Green Gala Awards celebration (left to right): Debjyoti Sen (Director of the Centres for Manufacturing and Energy Innovation, Red Deer Polytechnic), Dr. Tonya Wolfe (Associate Vice President, Applied Research, Red Deer Polytechnic), Dennis Borren (Founder, Borren Builders - Entrepreneur Award Winner); Carlo Vleeming (Founder, Vleeming Custom Homes - Small - Medium Enterprise Award Winner); Mitch Thomson (Executive Director, Red Deer Food Bank - Community Award Winner); Lindsay Beaulieu (Co-Chair, ReThink Red Deer); and Miranda Hawryliw (Director, Project Lead - Piper Creek Restoration Agriculture Project, ReThink Red Deer)
Following the Energy Innovation Fair, Red Deer Polytechnic presented the 2026 Green Gala Awards to celebrate achievements in energy innovation across Alberta. This year, the Polytechnic recognized the following recipients:
- Borren Builders as Entrepreneur of the Year
- This Lacombe-based company prioritizes sustainability, durability and healthy indoor environments by thoughtfully selecting building materials and employing airtight construction methods.
- Vleeming Custom Homes as Small and Medium Enterprise of the Year
- Carlo Vleeming, founder of Vleeming Custom Homes, leads the company's push for sustainable construction. Their certified net-zero home using ICE panels and solar technology reflects this focus. He promotes innovative methods and works to elevate industry standards for long-term environmental and community benefit.
- Red Deer Food Bank as Community Organization of the Year
- The Red Deer Food Bank is expanding food access through sustainable, locally focused growing initiatives. Using hydroponic and vertical systems, along with a solar-assisted greenhouse, they produce fresh food year-round with minimal resources. These projects strengthen community resilience and model environmentally responsible practices.
For more information about the Energy Innovation Fair, visit: rdpolytech.ca/events/energy-innovation-fair.
