The Women in Manufacturing initiative, piloted at the Polytechnic, assists women, gender diverse people and under-represented individuals in the evaluation and manufacturing of their own products by providing technical expertise and advanced manufacturing equipment in the CIM-TAC and Energy Innovation Centre.
RDP officials say CIM-TAC and Energy Innovation Centre’s employees have connected with organizations such as Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program, Women Entrepreneurs in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) and Business Link Indigenous Services to support companies with owners from under-represented groups.
The institution states that as women have been proportionately under-represented in the manufacturing and energy sector, the program at RDP helps women and under-represented individuals grow their knowledge, skills and confidence in the industry while helping entrepreneurs address talent needs, supply chain, technology and maintenance of equipment. They say the growth contributes to gender equity in the rapidly advancing field while sparking creativity and innovation across the province.
“The impact of the Women in Manufacturing initiative is far-reaching and complements our role as a polytechnic institution. The initiative also amplifies our commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and Indigenization,” said Kylie Thomas, Vice President Academic and Provost. “Our modern facilities provide a variety of partners access to applied research opportunities right here in central Alberta. The CIM-TAC and Energy Innovation Centre are hubs for advancing research, innovation and learning for individuals and small and medium enterprises.”
RDP officials say the initiative also works toward several of the sustainable development goals as outlined in the United Nations SDG Accord, which was recently signed by the institution. These goals include gender equality, economic growth, reduced inequalities, and industry, innovation and infrastructure.
READ: Red Deer Polytechnic signs United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Accord
ASTech has celebrated Alberta’s excellence in science, technology and innovation for 33 years. During this span, more than 600 individuals, organizations and teams have been recognized at an annual awards event that acknowledges excellence and inspires innovation in the province.
A list of the ASTech Awards finalists is available online.