RDP Empowers the Next Generation of Apprentices

Recently, Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) provided 55 high school students in central Alberta with an opportunity to explore careers in skilled trades at the World of Choices Summit. 

At the event, the high school students learned about careers in Carpentry, Heavy Equipment Technician and Welding through interactive activities and discussions with career mentors. Through these initiatives, students were able to better identify the skills, knowledge and post-secondary pathways that they need to enter the workforce as skilled trades professionals. 

“The World of Choices Summit is a great opportunity to showcase Red Deer Polytechnic’s dynamic programming and facilities while helping youth to prepare for the future,” says Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Experience. “We are proud to offer more than 80 industry-relevant programs in a variety of credentials, including 17 apprenticeships, that prepare students for rewarding careers and help to meet Alberta’s labour market demand.”

The World of Choices Summit is held as part of the Explore Trades and Technologies program, a one-year national program delivered by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) in partnership with Junior Achievement (JA) Canada and funded by the RBC Foundation. Through the program, 20 summits will be held across the country from 2022 to 2024. In total, 1,500 high school students will discover career opportunities in skilled trades.

As the third largest provider of skilled trades education in Alberta, Red Deer Polytechnic will train more than 2,000 apprentices this year, contributing to the economic prosperity of the province. With flexible learning options, apprentices can take courses and train at the Polytechnic, online or in a blended format to accommodate their work schedules, geographical location and life circumstances. 

With the Government of Alberta recently announcing a $13 million investment to expand RDP’s Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing-Technology Access Centre (CIM-TAC), opportunities for apprentices and youth will continue to grow. This investment will support unique training opportunities for students enrolled in the Polytechnic’s apprenticeship and technology programs. 

More than 500 junior and senior high school students will also benefit from immersive learning within the CIM-TAC as part of dual-credit opportunities offered through the Central Alberta Collegiate Institute (CACI). The CACI is a partnership between RDP, Red Deer Public School District, Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools, Wolf Creek Public Schools, Chinooks Edge School Division, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology and CAREERS: The Next Generation. The CACI provides apprenticeship-ready, dual credit learning and career readiness experiences for students.

Learn more about RDP’s Trades and Apprenticeships programs.