Polytechnics Canada

Polytechnics Canada is the voice of leading research-intensive, publicly supported polytechnics, colleges and institutes of technology.

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

Canada’s defence and security workforce is evolving, and so is the role of post-secondary education.

Join Polytechnics Canada and the @LMIC_CIMT for a joint webinar exploring how polytechnics and colleges are responding to emerging workforce needs in areas such as advanced manufacturing, aviation, cybersecurity, applied technology and skilled trades.

We’ll explore how institutions are:
✔️Adapting programs to meet evolving defence workforce needs
✔️Using labour market information to shape training pathways
✔️Partnering with employers, government and the defence sector
✔️Building workforce readiness and long-term resilience

Join us for our webinar on September 15 at 12:00 PM (ET)! Register here: https://t.co/jI56ct2CBo

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

What if emergency medical supplies and care could reach remote communities by drone?

Researchers at @sait ’s Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems are working with @UCalgary partners to make that possible.

The project combines drones, medical equipment, remote guidance and point-of-care testing to support emergency care in Indigenous communities and other hard-to-reach locations.

By reducing travel time and overcoming distance, this work could help make emergency healthcare faster and more accessible.

Explore our Applied Research Inventory to find the labs, equipment and expertise that can support projects like this: https://t.co/fkHnMyjD4v

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

Congratulations to @FanshaweCollege on this exciting next chapter for the Norton Wolf School of Aerospace, Information and Defence Technologies.

The evolution of aerospace is creating new opportunities at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, aviation, information technology, cybersecurity, defence and emerging technologies.

Preparing students for these increasingly connected industries requires exactly the kind of forward-looking, interdisciplinary approach that Fanshawe is embracing🚀

Congratulations to Fanshawe, its students, faculty and partners on this important evolution!✈️🚀

https://t.co/GBxVS633BG

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

Today, the @InnovationCA announced more than $118 million in funding to support 357 research infrastructure projects at 68 post-secondary institutions across Canada.

Two projects funded through the College Fund highlight the vital role polytechnics play in addressing Canada’s most pressing challenges:

➡️ @sait ’s Innovation Centre will create the Tailings, Ore, Water (TOW) Laboratory, bringing researchers and industry together to develop technologies that reduce the environmental impacts of oil and critical mineral extraction and tailings management.

➡️ @SaskPolytech will build a scalable, renewable-energy-powered AI data centre to explore how waste heat can be captured and used to heat nearby laboratories, while AI helps optimize building systems and reduce energy consumption.

Learn more: https://t.co/yc4Y93WDEM

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

Canada's construction sector is facing significant workforce pressures, driven by high retirement rates and a growing need for skilled talent. Polytechnics are uniquely positioned to help meet this demand by providing industry-responsive education and training that prepares learners for in-demand construction occupations.

As the industry adapts to the opportunities and challenges of the green transition, polytechnics are also expanding programming to support both active apprentices and mid-career professionals. Through hands-on learning, applied training, and upskilling opportunities, polytechnics are helping ensure Canada's construction workforce has the skills needed to build a more sustainable future.

Read more in our Skilled and Ready report: https://t.co/ZaDISlwm4F

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

@NAIT's Centre for Culinary Innovation helped turn an entrepreneur's idea into a market-ready product through applied research. Working with League Nutrition Labs founder Jennifer Koo, NAIT provided food science expertise, product development support and testing to develop Hydrate + Go, a hydration drink designed specifically for youth athletes.

This partnership demonstrates the power of applied research: polytechnics working with industry to solve real-world challenges, reduce innovation risk and accelerate commercialization. From concept to market, institutions like NAIT help Canadian businesses bring innovative products to life.

Learn more: https://t.co/r21JQ8sVKV

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

We are proud to be part of the @ESDC_GC Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Alliance and excited to join its Strategic Council alongside partners from across Canada’s manufacturing, education, labour and training ecosystems.

At Polytechnics Canada, we know that building a competitive advanced manufacturing sector starts with investing in people. Our 13 leading polytechnics, colleges and institutes of technology are helping Canadians gain the hands-on, technology-driven skills employers need - from automation and robotics to AI and advanced production.

We’re pleased that our CEO, @SarahWRynard , will sit on the Strategic Council and help bring the perspective of Canada’s polytechnic sector to this important national effort.

Together, we can strengthen Canada’s workforce, accelerate innovation and build a more productive, resilient and globally competitive manufacturing sector.

@PattyHajdu @NGen_Canada @EMCCanadaMFG

[Employment and Social Development Canada @ESDC_GC]

The Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Alliance, launched today, will drive industry-led strategies to help Canadian workers gain the skills needed to build a stronger, more competitive advanced manufacturing sector.

https://t.co/5bWzFdcVVR

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

This morning in Guelph, Polytechnics Canada CEO @SarahWRynard joined Minister @PattyHajdu , @NGen_Canada , @EMCCanadaMFG and Canadian Skills Training and Employment Coalition (CSTEC) for the launch of Canada’s new Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Alliance.

The Alliance will bring together manufacturers, educational institutions, unions and other partners to identify workforce gaps and advance practical training solutions that support productivity, technology adoption and global competitiveness.

We’re excited that Polytechnics Canada has been invited to sit on the Alliance’s Strategic Council, where Sarah will represent Canada’s 13 leading polytechnics, colleges and institutes of technology.

Hear from Sarah below, and learn more about today’s announcement here:
https://t.co/RqL28nuXLZ

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

.@sheridancollege's Screen Industries Research and Training (SIRT) Centre has secured a $450,000 @NSERC_CRSNG Applied Research and Development grant to partner with Newfoundland-based @CamberArts on a three-year research project exploring how digital tools and AI can help cultural organizations expand audience access, strengthen resilience and share Canadian stories across multiple platforms.

This collaboration builds on Sheridan’s growing leadership in applied AI research and innovation for Canada’s creative industries.

Learn more: https://t.co/3BqTotx8fd

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

What does it take to turn an autonomous robot into a market-ready product?

@HumberPoly Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation partnered with @locomobiworld /Mobi Robotics on a 20-month project to redesign and commercialize an autonomous parking attendant robot.

Designed to patrol parking lots, support users, strengthen security and assist emergency services, the robot shows how applied research can move emerging technologies from concept to real-world use.

Explore our Applied Research Inventory: https://t.co/fkHnMyjD4v

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

NAIT is helping turn early inspiration into real opportunity🔨

Through its School of Construction and Building Sciences, @NAIT is creating pathways for students to turn an interest in the skilled trades into rewarding careers - and the $500,000 investment in student awards from @HomesbyAviYEG will help make that journey more accessible.

This is the power of polytechnic education: connecting students, industry and hands-on learning to build the skilled workforce Canada needs.

Congrats to NAIT, and thank you to Homes by Avi for investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals🛠️

[NAIT @NAIT]

A future in the skilled trades can start with a single moment of discovery.

For students at M.E. LaZerte High School, building a home with Homes by Avi provides more than hands-on experience. It gives them the chance to explore new skills, discover possibilities and imagine a future they may not have considered.

For those who choose to continue their journey, Homes by Avi, Edmonton’s investment in NAIT student awards helps create a pathway into skilled trades education and careers.

Because every career starts somewhere.

Sometimes, it starts with discovering what you’re capable of.

Learn more: https://t.co/etfCqU3pF4

#NAIT #SkilledTrades #ConstructionCareers #IndustryPartnerships

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

When industry and polytechnics collaborate, everyone benefits.

✅ Real-world solutions to pressing challenges
✅ Economic growth and job creation
✅ Support for key sectors
✅ Hands-on learning opportunities for students

Applied research delivers practical innovations that strengthen Canada's competitiveness while preparing the next generation of talent.

Read more in the Polytechnic Applied Research brief: https://t.co/hqZhVAA5ME

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

This is polytechnic education in action: partnering with communities to solve real challenges, build local capacity and create lasting impact.

@SaskPolytech ’s collaboration with Montreal Lake Cree Nation shows the power of bringing applied research, technology and community knowledge together. By creating dynamic digital maps while training community members to update them using drones, the project is building local capacity that can support emergency response, land-use planning, environmental stewardship and economic opportunity for years to come.

This is why Canada must continue investing in polytechnics and their unique role as trusted partners in communities - strengthening communities and building the skilled workforce Canada needs.

https://t.co/DmEDwUxp9X

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

#ICYMI @SarahWRynard, CEO of Polytechnics Canada, joined @QRCalgary to discuss apprentice retention in the skilled trades. Canada must do more to support apprentices through to completion if we’re to meet goals in housing, manufacturing, energy, defence and more.

Read the transcript: https://t.co/QzSK4EdPod

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

How can employers know that a drone pilot has the right skills and experience?

@AlgonquinColleg ’s Data Analytics Centre supported the development of DroneEntry, a platform where drone pilots can create verified profiles and show examples of their work.

The platform makes it easier for employers to assess qualifications and find skilled operators. That matters in fields such as logistics, public safety and defence, where trust, compliance and proven experience are essential.

Explore our Applied Research Inventory to discover the research infrastructure, equipment and expertise available to support industry and community partners: https://t.co/fkHnMyjD4v

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

For generations, university was seen as the default path to career success. Today, more young Canadians are recognizing that there are many pathways to meaningful, rewarding careers - and the skilled trades are increasingly a first choice.

In this feature from @CDNAffairs , Polytechnics Canada CEO @SarahWRynard discusses the changing perceptions of skilled trades and why more learners are choosing careers that are hands-on and in line with Canada's workforce needs.

As Sarah notes, the skilled trades are not a "second choice" - they're a destination for talented people who enjoy solving complex problems, working with their hands and building the major nation-building projects that Canada relies on.

Read the full article: https://t.co/uuZPAM7LoL

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

Congratulations to @AlgonquinColleg on this milestone! 🎉

These first graduates from Algonquin College’s Bachelor of Engineering (Automation and Robotics Engineering)  program are entering the profession with a commitment to ethics, responsibility and service - values that define Canada's top polytechnics. Wishing them every success as they help build a stronger future!

[Algonquin College @AlgonquinColleg]

Algonquin College’s first graduating cohorts from  accredited engineering program receive Iron Rings, a symbol of the profession’s highest standards of ethics, responsibility and public service.

Read the full story: https://t.co/TtjGNdtBrE

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

Canada's labour market may be cooling overall, but demand for skilled talent remains strong where it matters most.

Our 𝘚𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 & 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 report identifies five occupation clusters driving Canada's workforce needs:
✅Healthcare
✅Skilled trades
✅Information and technology
✅Tourism and hospitality
✅Care occupations, including childcare, social services and early education

Read our 𝘚𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 & 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 report to learn how career-focused polytechnic education is helping build Canada's future workforce:
https://t.co/ZaDISlwm4F

[Polytechnics Canada @PolyCan]

Can electric vehicles perform in sub-Arctic conditions?

@RRC Polytech’s Vehicle Technology & Energy Centre helped answer that question by converting a diesel-powered tundra buggy into a battery-electric vehicle.

Researchers tested the vehicle, integrated and repurposed its batteries and developed safety training for high-capacity battery systems.

The project shows how applied research can support cleaner transportation, Arctic mobility and remote operations while building the skills needed for Canada’s North.

Explore the labs, equipment and expertise available across polytechnics:
https://t.co/fkHnMyjD4v