A new partnership is taking flight between Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) and the Red Deer Regional Airport to explore education and training that contributes to Alberta's diverse workforce and strengthens the province's economic priorities.
To help meet growing workforce demands as the Red Deer Regional Airport expands its service, Red Deer Polytechnic is exploring the development of programs with the Airport.
These programs would prepare graduates with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to inspect, repair and maintain aircraft, helping ensure the safety and reliability of air travel for passengers and crew. By aligning training opportunities with industry needs, these programs would help build a skilled aviation workforce to support continued growth in the region's aerospace and aviation sectors.
"It's always exciting as we look to the future, and this is no exception as we explore new opportunities with our partners at the Red Deer Regional Airport," says Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Experience at Red Deer Polytechnic. "Supporting the educational goals of our students while also growing RDP's diverse programs offerings that support Alberta's industry needs is part of our mission as a post-secondary institution."
This partnership announcement was made today during a celebration of Airport Workers Day, designated by the Canadian Airports Council. For the Red Deer Regional Airport, today's gathering provided the opportunity to celebrate the contributions of the organization's more than 300 employees who keep the airport operations running smoothly and safely.
The Red Deer Regional Airport is a critical transportation and economic development hub serving central Alberta. Strategically located along the QEII Corridor, the Airport is finalizing a significant $45 million expansion project designed to enhance regional connectivity, attract new aviation and aerospace investment, and support long-term economic growth.
As part of this expansion, there is 200 acres of development-ready land within its Central Development Area, creating opportunities for aviation, aerospace, defence, advanced manufacturing, logistics and industrial investment. The Airport currently generates approximately $55 million in direct economic impact and $120 million in indirect economic benefits annually, while supporting over 300 jobs. With the Central Development Area, the Airport is positioned to play a leading role in workforce development across the region.
"This partnership with Red Deer Polytechnic represents an exciting opportunity to build the next generation of aviation professionals right here in central Alberta," says Nancy Paish, Chief Executive Officer of the Red Deer Regional Airport. "As our airport continues to grow and attract new aviation and aerospace opportunities, developing a strong local workforce pipeline is critical. Working with Red Deer Polytechnic allows us to explore innovative training opportunities that will help students build rewarding careers while supporting the long-term needs of our industry and region."
The partnership between the Red Deer Regional Airport and RDP is formalized through a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), providing a framework for collaboration and implementation of training, applied research and economic development that provides benefits for both organizations and impacted communities.
This new partnership builds on an already existing relationship between RDP and the Red Deer Regional Airport. As examples, RDP participates in the Airport's annual Girls in Aviation Day Alberta to showcase education and career opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields. In partnership with Skywings Aviation Academy, RDP also trains students at the Airport to earn an Aviation Certificate (while also earning a Business Certificate).
