Three new P2INACLE projects launch this fall with IMII

RRC Polytech is proud to join a new applied research network that brings together six top polytechnics across the prairies to drive innovation and economic growth in Canada. Led by Saskatchewan Polytechnic and in partnership with the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII), the network has launched three applied research projects to support the region’s mining sector.

The Prairie Polytechnic Innovation Network Accelerating Commercialization for Local Ecosystems, known as P2INACLE, includes Saskatchewan Polytechnic, NAIT, Northwestern Polytechnic, Red Deer Polytechnic, RRC Polytech and SAIT. This collaborative network leverages shared expertise and state-of-the-art facilities to deliver practical, industry-driven solutions that help Canadian companies grow and compete globally.

Funded by $899,500 from PrairiesCan, the initial round of P2INACLE projects are delivered in partnership with IMII and involve at least two participating polytechnics. Over the spring and summer months, IMII and its members, including BHP, presented a series of business challenges to P2INACLE’s network of polytechnic researchers. The three successful applied research project proposals focus on mining innovation, sustainable materials and environmental remediation.

“Canada has what the world wants — and our mining and critical minerals sector is ready to deliver. In a period of profound change and new challenges, this sector is central to building the strongest economy in the G7, thanks to the innovation that drives new solutions, supports good jobs, and creates lasting opportunities,” says the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada. “Through P2INACLE, our new government is proud to support innovation that not only strengthens this sector, but also creates meaningful opportunities for Prairie communities. By combining the expertise of our polytechnics with the innovation of industry partners, we are helping local businesses turn bold ideas into practical solutions—solutions that support high-quality jobs, enhance vibrant communities, and build a resilient Canadian economy.”

“Saskatchewan’s mining sector is a staple of many of our rural and northern communities and is an economic driver for Canada,” says the Honourable Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State (Rural Development). “When industry and our post-secondaries work together, like this partnership between P2INACLE and IMII, we solve real problems — quicker, safer, cleaner. Innovation in mining isn’t abstract; it helps workers today and keeps our communities thriving for the long haul.”

“IMII is proud to be part of the P2INACLE pilot project” says Lesley McGilp, executive director of the IMII. “This collaborative platform is an exciting step forward in advancing innovation across Western Canada’s mining and minerals sector. The P2INACLE pilot is focused on solving real-world challenges identified by our industry members, and we look forward to seeing the meaningful impacts it will create.”

“Each of our colleges brings strong, proven expertise—but together, we offer our industry and SME partners a powerful, coordinated approach to tackling larger, more complex challenges across the value chain,” said Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Executive Director, Research, Partnerships and Innovation at RRC Polytech.  “From minerals and mining, to defense and Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITBs), to energy and renewables, our Prairie consortium connects companies to the right expertise faster, with the capacity to deliver real-world solutions at scale.”

One project is developing sustainable and cost-effective construction materials by combining potash tailings with fly ash and kraft lignin, along with other concrete ingredients. Potash tailings are the leftover materials after potash is removed from the rock during mining. Fly ash is a fine, powdery material that is produced when organic materials are burned and kraft lignin is extracted during the pulping process to make paper. Researchers are formulating and testing the combination of these materials for concrete production. The goal is to reduce industrial waste, promote circular economy practices and possibly support affordable housing through innovative material development. Project partners include Sask Polytech, RRC Polytech and IMII members. Dr. Abu Kamal, Sustainability-Led Integrated Centres of Excellence (SLICE) research chair at Sask Polytech, serves as the principal investigator. He is collaborating with Dr. Alireza Kaboorani, Building Efficiency Technology Access Centre (BETAC) director at RRC Polytech.

Another project focuses on using potash tailings as a compost additive, returning nutrients to the ecosystems while reducing environmental impacts. The first phase of this project will include formulating and testing composting blends using potash tailings, fly ash and other carbon- and nitrogen-rich materials. Safety and quality testing will ensure the environmental suitability of the compost additive. Project partners include Sask Polytech, NAIT and IMII members. Dr. Abu Kamal, SLICE research chair at Sask Polytech, is the principal investigator in collaboration with Dr. Heather Kaminsky, the NSERC Industrialresearch chair at NAIT.

A third project investigates various frequencies of electromagnetic spectrum for their possible use to develop and imaging system to view beyond the visible boring face in potash mines. Researchers are conducting an extensive literature review to understand how different frequencies of electromagnetic radiation interact with different soils. The project also includes an assessment of existing imaging technologies and aims to identify the most effective frequency ranges for subsurface visualization. Project partners include Sask Polytech and SAIT, along with IMII members. Dr. Abdul Raouf, SLICE research chair at Sask Polytech will lead the project along with Wade Hawkins, Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems (CIRUS) research chair at SAIT.

Each P2INACLE project is designed to deliver tangible outcomes for IMII and its members.

P2INACLE aims to drive economic growth and diversification through collaboration. It acts as a catalyst for regional prosperity by providing streamlined access to resources for industries, especially small and medium-sized enterprises and larger businesses. By leveraging the expertise and facilities of each polytechnic, P2INACLE offers tailored solutions for commercialization and diversification, fostering innovation and knowledge exchange. Areas of expertise include clean technologies, digital technologies, value-added agriculture and natural resources. Learn more at saskpolytech.ca/p2inacle.

Labs4 has launched its new Technology Readiness Level-Up (TRL) program, giving student innovators the support they need to advance their research toward commercialization. This fall’s inaugural cohort brings together emerging researchers from colleges and universities across Canada to help them tackle one of the most persistent challenges in innovation: turning promising research into prototypes and products that meet real market needs.

The four-month program kicked off on September 10 with a virtual session attended by more than 60 participants, along with hub managers and Labs4 staff. The event provided participants with an early look at how they’ll work with mentors, industry partners, and applied research experts as they advance the commercialization potential of their projects.

Throughout the program, participants will benefit from a $10,000 stipend, weekly development sprints, applied research placements, and customized business training — all designed to strengthen their ideas before they reach the market.

Lucas Monter, an undergraduate student at McMaster University and founder of NeuroSpritz, shared how he hopes the program will help him advance his venture.

“I decided to join the TRL program to spearhead NeuroSpritz’s MVP (minimum viable product) development, contribute meaningfully to the intellectual property landscape of Canada, and immerse myself in a community of motivated students and mentors.”

NeuroSpritz, incubated at McMaster’s The Forge, is developing a spray-on scalp electrode combined with AI-driven analytics to make EEG measurement faster, more comfortable and easier to scale. It aims to help reduce barriers in neuroscience and mental health diagnostics by providing a more accessible and user-friendly technology.

“I am most looking forward to leveraging TRL as a launchpad to build NeuroSpritz’s MVP, gather preliminary data from both hardware and software components, and iterate strategically to land pilot opportunities,” said Monter.

The TRL curriculum features workshops on business models, commercialization strategies and customer evaluation methods that equip participants with the tools to align their research with market demand and prepare for future investment opportunities.

At Western University, graduate student Dandan Zhao highlighted how the program’s personalized support will help her bridge the gap between research and entrepreneurship.

“The program managers not only help connect me with academic mentors but also offer customized business training based on my needs,” she said. “This support is very beneficial not only for my future career development but also for transforming my research into practical applications.”

“This launch is the result of an unprecedented national collaboration across 38 post-secondary institutions,” said Nasil Nam, National Director, Labs4. “Together, we’re creating commercialization pathways for diverse innovators and building a more inclusive innovation ecosystem.”

Labs4 is a Canada-wide initiative that connects 38 colleges, polytechnics and universities through 11 regional and Indigenous Entrepreneurship Hubs. Using a hub-and-spoke model, it blends national standards with regionally tailored delivery. Alongside TRL, Labs4 also offers Market to Lab and Indigenous Entrepreneurship programs, each designed to support researcher-entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey.

By combining technical expertise with business strategy, TRL has the potential to prepare a new generation of Canadian innovators to bring their ideas into the world. The next cohort runs from January to May 2026.

Please follow us on LinkedIn to stay engaged.

RRC Polytech and the Vehicle Technology Centre Inc. are hosting the fourth biennial Heavy Vehicle and Equipment Technology Conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba on October 7-8, 2025 at the Victoria Inn.

This 2-day event brings together the heavy equipment and vehicle manufacturing industry in Manitoba and beyond to highlight R&D work along the path to zero emissions, network with potential partners and foster collaboration. Join us to discuss how smart, connected and autonomous technologies are changing the products we build and how digital technologies are transforming low volume custom manufacturing.

The conference is oriented to engineers, practitioners, researchers, entrepreneurs and operations professionals at all stages involved with advances in vehicle technologies and practical applications. Presentations, information booths and panel discussions will feature technical information and informed conversations about:

• alternative propulsion technologies
• heavy-duty and specialized vehicle applications
• simulation and testing
• smart vehicle technologies
• advances in heavy vehicle and manufacturing technology
• addressing barriers for new technologies

Listen to and engage with local and international speakers presenting on a wide variety of topics including their challenges and success stories developing and adopting innovative technology. Learn about RRC’s Polytech’s vast network of applied research and practical learning facilities and expertise.

Connect with peers, partners and problem solvers to drive our industry into a greener and more prosperous tomorrow!

Early Bird Tickets Sales have been extended until Noon on September 23rd!

Click to Register TODAY

Topics and Presenting Companies for 2025:

Reducing Emissions

• Cummins – The Future of Propulsion Technology on a Turbulent Horizon
• ABB – The Near Future of Charging Infrastructure
• NRC – Energy Modeling and Simulation for Off Road Truck Electrification
• Cando Rail – Design and Prototyping of a Battery Electric Railway Locomotive
• University of Manitoba – The Future of Wireless Vehicle Charging
• Versatile – Diesel Electric Parallel Drive Technology for More Power in Agriculture
• MacDon – Path to Electrifying Agricultural Equipment
• New Flyer – Dealing with Dissimilar Vehicle Battery Strings
• Fort Garry Fire Trucks – Battery APU for Standby Power to Reduce Fire Truck Idling

Embracing Advanced Manufacturing

• Mode 40 – Artificial Intelligence – Where is the Big Pay Off in Heavy Vehicle Manufacturing?
• MacDon – The Power of Digital Twins When Undertaking Complex Assembly Automation
• Innovair – Weld Location and Sequence Program Generation, right from your CAD Drawing
• Sika – Full Bonded Complex Assembly Technology

Other Topics

• Mojow Technologies – Integrating Autonomy on Existing Product
• Panel Discussion – Understanding Our Hesitancy – Roadblocks to Adopting Industry 4.0
• Interested in Defense Manufacturing? – Understanding the Process to Qualify

Click to access our full 2025 agenda

For more information about conference sponsorship opportunities, exhibit booths, advertising or any other questions, please email Ron Vanderwees at the VTC

RRC Polytech is using federal funding announced this week to enhance the research capacity and innovation potential at its Building Efficiency Technology Access Centre (BETAC). The funding awarded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) enables BETAC to become the first in Canada to acquire advanced equipment that improves the accuracy and efficiency of retrofit planning.

“The new equipment will help to reduce risks, improve cost-efficiency in design, and accelerate innovation by providing detailed, reliable data on building conditions so that we can better support our industry and community partners,” said Dr. Alireza Kaboorani, Director at RRC Polytech’s Building Efficiency Technology Access Centre. “It will also enable BETAC to test and validate novel retrofit solutions in both laboratory and real-world environments.”

Leading-edge tools like the Sorama CAM for detecting building inefficiencies; the Nexys LiDAR system for precise building assessments; and the TRSYS20 system for accurate thermal resistance measurements will directly support BETAC’s ongoing projects such as the Gordon Bell High School retrofit and other heritage building upgrades across the province.

The investment also aligns with sustainable housing goals by enhancing retrofit precision, supporting affordable housing initiatives, and fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration among architects, engineers, and researchers.

“By supporting research that fuels technological progress and economic growth, this investment ensures impactful collaboration between partners, benefiting industries, communities, and Canadians alike,” said Professor Alejandro Adem, FRSC, President, NSERC, in the government release.

The announcement included a total investment of $29.82 million through the College and Community Innovation (CCI) program, as part of a national strategy to strengthen the ability of colleges, CEGEPs and polytechnics to drive cutting-edge advancements, promote meaningful partnerships that create lasting impact, and ultimately bolster the Canadian economy.

BETAC was awarded a $200,000 Applied Research Tools and Instruments (ARTI) grant which provides funding for Canadian colleges to acquire essential research equipment, strengthen partnerships with industry, public, and health organizations while offering hands-on training opportunities for students.

“Manitoba’s rich history has endowed us with incredible infrastructure and stunning architecture, but it requires a significant commitment from all stakeholders to preserve and protect,” said Kaboorani. “Retrofits not only extend the life of heritage structures but can transform them into modern, energy-efficient and sustainable works of art. The new technology acquired with this funding combined with BETAC’s expertise will save time and money which are critical to the success of our partners across the sector.”

Winnipeg, MB on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – Today, RRC Polytech and its post-secondary partners across the country are proud to launch the website www.labs4.ca to officially introduce and establish Labs4 – a national applied research commercialization engine designed to support entrepreneurs and accelerate Canada’s innovation economy.

Labs4 brings together 38 polytechnics, colleges and universities across Canada in an aligned effort to collaborate with businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities to transform more research into real-world solutions.

Initially known as the College-University Lab to Market Network for Entrepreneurship and Research Commercialization, Labs4 will develop and deliver hands-on entrepreneurship training, product development support, and mentorship through eight Regional Hubs and three Indigenous Entrepreneurship Hubs that stretch from coast to coast.

“Labs4 is built for impact. This is innovation with purpose, delivered across every region and rooted in community,” says Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Executive Director of Research Partnerships & Innovation at RRC Polytech and Chair of the Labs4 Executive Committee.

“We operate at the intersection of academia and industry to translate applied research into practical solutions. By teaching researchers and businesses how to work with each other, building stronger relationships with Indigenous communities, and scaling innovation with intentional speed and purpose, we’ll equip entrepreneurs to quickly move from insight to action to benefit all Canadians.”

Funded by NSERC, Mitacs, and its institutional partners, Labs4 is a $55 million initiative created to close Canada’s persistent gap between research and commercialization across all sectors, while reducing barriers faced by equity-seeking groups and strengthening Indigenous and regional innovation. Leveraging the state-of-the-art facilities and subject-matter expertise available at network institutions will expedite entrepreneurs and creators’ ability to take new products and processes to the market and therefore make both economic and social impacts sooner.

Three signature pillars differentiate Labs4:

• Indigenous Entrepreneurship Hubs: Incubators in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario provide culturally grounded programming, mentorship, and wraparound supports tailored to First Nations, Métis and Inuit researcher-entrepreneurs. Programming is led by Indigenous institutions and rooted in self-determined goals, ceremony, and community priorities.
• Technology Readiness Level-Up (TRL) program: A four-month placement in polytechnic/college -based applied research facilities where researcher-entrepreneurs receive $10,000 stipends to develop, test, and validate prototypes with expert mentorship.
• Market to Lab (MtL) program: A two-month simulation in which researcher-entrepreneurs lead student teams to solve real-world commercialization barriers. With mentorship from business and innovation experts, participants gain leadership experience and build go-to-market strategies.

The TRL program is already underway: applications are now open for the upcoming Fall 2025 cohort.

“We are dedicated to creating pathways for innovation and amplifying the impact of Canadian research on the global stage,” says Nasil Nam, National Director, Labs4. “Whether it’s a prototype in a lab or a venture ready to launch, we meet researcher-entrepreneurs where they are and help them move forward with confidence. Our work is practical, fast-paced, and focused on impact.”

Labs4 is poised to drive measurable national impact and support hundreds of researcher-entrepreneurs to explore the launch of new research-based ventures. The initiative supports not only new ventures and commercial products but also economic development, job creation, and inclusive growth across all sectors and regions.

To learn more about Labs4, its programs, or upcoming events, visit www.labs4.ca.

About Labs4
Labs4 is Canada’s applied research commercialization engine. Delivered through eight Regional and three Indigenous Entrepreneurship Hubs, it provides researcher-entrepreneurs with the tools, training, mentorship, and applied facilities to move innovations from lab to market. Funded by NSERC, Mitacs and over three dozen post-secondary partners, Labs4 is designed to deliver rapid, equitable, and outcome-driven commercialization across Canada’s innovation ecosystem.

Lancement de Labs4 : l’initiative canadienne de commercialisation de la recherche appliquée pour appuyer l’écosystème de l’innovation

Winnipeg, MB sur le territoire du Traité no 1 et la patrie nationale des Métis de la Rivière-Rouge : Aujourd’hui, RRC Polytech et ses partenaires postsecondaires à travers le pays sont fiers de lancer le site web www.labs4.ca qui marque le lancement et l’établissement officiel de Labs4, une initiative nationale de commercialisation de la recherche appliquée conçue pour appuyer les entrepreneurs et accélérer l’économie d’innovation du Canada.

Labs4 rassemble 38 polytechniques, collèges et universités à travers le Canada dans le but de collaborer avec les entreprises, les entrepreneurs et les collectivités pour transformer davantage de recherche en solutions concrètes. Originalement le College-University Lab to Market Network for Entrepreneurship and Research Commercialization, Labs4 élaborera et mettra en œuvre des formations pratiques d’entrepreneuriat, un appui au développement de produits et du mentorat dans ses huit carrefours régionaux et trois carrefours d’entreprenariat autochtones, situés partout à travers le Canada.

« Labs4 a été conçue pour avoir un impact et concrétiser l’innovation à travers toutes les régions, tout en étant solidement enracinée dans les communautés », a expliqué Jolen Galaugher, Ph.D., directrice administrative des partenariats de recherche et de l’innovation de RRC Polytech et présidente du comité de direction de Labs4. « Nous évoluons à l’intersection du milieu universitaire et de l’industrie dans le but de traduire la recherche appliquée en solutions pratiques. En enseignant aux chercheurs et aux entreprises à travailler ensemble, en bâtissant des liens plus solides avec les communautés autochtones et en augmentant la rapidité et les objectifs de l’innovation, nous outillons les entrepreneurs à passer rapidement de l’abstrait  à l’action, au profit de tous les Canadiens et Canadiennes. »    

Financée par le CRSNG, Mitacs et ses partenaires institutionnels, Labs4 est une initiative de 55 millions $ créée pour réduire l’écart persistant entre la recherche et la commercialisation à travers tous les secteurs du Canada, tout en réduisant les obstacles auxquels font face les groupes en quête d’équité et en consolidant l’innovation autochtone et régionale. La mise à profit des installations à la fine pointe et de l’expertise en la matière qui existe au sein des établissements du réseau accélérera la capacité des entrepreneurs et des créateurs à commercialiser de nouveaux produits et processus et ainsi, d’avoir un impact économique et social plus rapide.

Les trois piliers qui distinguent Labs4 :

• Carrefours d’entreprenariat autochtones : Des incubateurs d’entreprises au Saskatchewan, au Manitoba et en Ontario fournissent une programmation fondée sur la culture, du mentorat et des services de soutien adaptés aux chercheurs-entrepreneurs des Premières Nations, Métis et Inuit. La programmation est dirigée par des établissements autochtones et est ancrée dans l’auto-détermination, la cérémonie et les priorités communautaires. 
• Programme de niveau de préparation technologique (Technology Readiness Level-Up ou TRL) : Un stage de quatre mois dans une installation polytechnique ou collégiale de recherche appliquée où des chercheurs-entrepreneurs reçoivent une allocation de 10 000 $ pour développer, tester et valider des prototypes, tout en étant accompagnés par  des experts.  
• Programme du marché au labo (Market to Lab ou MtL) : Une simulation de deux mois au cours de laquelle des chercheurs-entrepreneurs dirigent des équipes d’étudiants dans le but de surmonter des obstacles à la commercialisation. Grâce au mentorat d’experts du monde des affaires et de l’innovation, les participants acquièrent une expérience de leadership et élaborent des stratégies de mise en marché.

Le programme TRL est déjà en cours ; les candidatures sont maintenant acceptées pour la prochaine cohorte de l’automne 2025.

« Nous nous engageons à créer des voies d’accès à l’innovation et à amplifier l’impact de la recherche canadienne à l’échelle mondiale », a déclaré Nasil Nam, directrice nationale, Labs4. « Qu’il s’agisse d’un prototype en laboratoire ou d’un projet prêt au lancement, nous allons à la rencontre des chercheurs-entrepreneurs et nous sommes là pour les aider à aller de l’avant en toute confiance. Notre travail est pratique, dynamique et axé sur les résultats. »

Labs4 est positionnée pour produire des retombées quantifiables à l’échelle nationale et appuyer des centaines de chercheurs-entrepreneurs dans l’exploration du lancement de nouvelles entreprises de recherche. L’initiative appuie non seulement les nouvelles entreprises et nouveaux produits commerciaux, mais aussi le développement économique, la création d’emplois et la croissance inclusive à travers tous les secteurs et régions.

Pour en apprendre davantage au sujet de Labs4, ses programmes, ou ses événements à venir, visitez www.labs4.ca.

À propos de 4Labs
Labs4 est l’initiative de commercialisation de la recherche appliquée du Canada. Par l’entremise de huit carrefours régionaux et de trois carrefours d’entreprenariat autochtones, Labs4 procure aux chercheurs-entrepreneurs les outils, la formation, le mentorat et les installations appliquées permettant le passage des innovations du laboratoire au marché. Financée par le CRSNG, Mitacs et plus de trois douzaine de partenaires postsecondaires, Labs4 est conçue pour permettre une commercialisation rapide, équitable et axée sur les résultats à travers l’écosystème canadien de l’innovation.

Research Partnerships & Innovation (RPI) is pleased to welcome Dr. Kristen Kindrachuk as the new Director of the Office of Applied Research Services (OARS). Named the successful candidate through a competitive process, Kristen will lead the administration and support the operation of applied research (AR) at RRC Polytech through OARS – which provides expertise, enables opportunities for researchers and partners, and drives AR excellence across our campuses.

Kristen is a strategic leader with extensive expertise in research administration, funding management, and cross-sector collaboration. Her experience spans pre- and post-award research management, large-scale proposal development, contract negotiation, and project oversight.

Kristen received her BSc and MSc from the University of Manitoba and her PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of British Columbia. She trained as a postdoctoral fellow at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland and was employed as an Adjunct Professor teaching graduate studies in Pathogenic Microbiology at Hood College. Her experience at Ripple Effect Inc. consulting on projects for the NIH Office of Behavioural and Social Sciences Research and the NIH Office of Extramural Research sparked her interest in pursuing a career in research administration.

Upon returning to Winnipeg in 2016, she joined the University of Manitoba as a Research Facilitator and Business Development Officer to gain experience in funding administration. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she managed response efforts at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) at the University of Saskatchewan where she served as Project Manager and Intellectual Property (IP) Manager.

Since 2022, Kristen has pursued her passion for funding administration at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Institute of Infection and Immunity (CIHR-III) where she served as the scientific and strategic lead to the CIHR HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted and Blood Borne Infections (STBBI) Research Initiative – a federal research priority that delivers $21M annually in research funding. To continue to hone her leadership skills, Kristen is currently pursuing a part-time MBA with a concentration in Leadership and Organizations at the University of Manitoba.

Her leadership, vision, and passion for research excellence will be invaluable to our community.

The College-University Lab to Market Network, led by RRC Polytech, is pleased to introduce Nasil Nam as its inaugural National Director. The accomplished innovation-driven leader stepped in immediately after being named the successful candidate through a competitive process, to begin mobilizing the network’s collaborative partners who have aligned to accelerate research commercialization and support entrepreneurship across Canada.

Nam will lead the national implementation of programs that support researcher-entrepreneurs across the 38-member network of colleges, polytechnics, and universities. She’ll guide the execution of the network’s vision to deepen partnerships and enhance commercialization outcomes for research-based ventures in health, STEM, social innovation, and the social sciences. 

“Nasil is exactly the kind of leader this initiative needs. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team as we work to bring industry into greater connection with Canadian research,” said Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Executive Director of Research Partnerships & Innovation at RRC Polytech and Chair of network’s Executive Committee. “Her leadership will be instrumental in leveraging the expertise, capacity, and diversity of Canada’s universities, colleges and polytechnics to support Indigenous entrepreneurs and drive research-based ventures and social innovations that benefit all Canadians.”

With more than a decade of experience in program development, commercialization, and entrepreneurial ecosystem building, Nam brings a unique blend of hands-on entrepreneurial insight and national innovation leadership. She began her journey as a founder of her own ventures before moving into institutional leadership roles, including her most recent position as Associate Director of Start-ups & Commercialization at Dalhousie University. There, she played a key role in the national expansion of the Lab2Market program while developing a regional innovation program called Collide. 

In addition to her work in postsecondary innovation, Nam has championed inclusive entrepreneurship, serving as Project Lead for the Propelling Women Tech Founders program at the Centre for Women in Business, where she helped support the growth of emerging female entrepreneurs through mentorship and strategic planning. Holding a Master of Education in Psychology and Leadership Studies from the University of Victoria, her approach is grounded in collaboration, strategic execution, and a deep commitment to building sustainable innovation ecosystems that drive both economic and social impact.

“I am passionate about innovation, leadership, and community-building,” said Nam. “The College-University Lab to Market Network’s mission is to transform research into real-world solutions for a stronger, more inclusive innovation economy. Whether it’s leading national-scale initiatives or mentoring early-stage founders, I am dedicated to creating pathways for innovation and amplifying the impact of Canadian research on the global stage.”

Network Institutions:
British Columbia Institute of Technology (BC Hub Lead), Cégep de Sherbrooke, Cégep de Thetford (QC Hub Lead), Cégep de Trois-Rivières, College of the North Atlantic, Concordia University, Dalhousie University, Humber Polytechnic (ON Hub Lead), Lethbridge College, Loyalist College, MacEwan University, Mohawk College, Mount Saint Vincent University, New Brunswick Community College, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NA Hub Lead), NorQuest College, Northwestern Polytechnic, Nova Scotia Community College (ATL Hub Lead), Olds College, Red Deer Polytechnic, RRC Polytech (MB Hub Lead), Saint Mary’s University, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, Saskatchewan Polytechnic (SK Hub Lead), Selkirk College, Sheridan College, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SA Hub Lead), United College – University of Waterloo, University College of the North, University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Guelph, University of Lethbridge, University of Manitoba, University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, University of Yukon, Western University

Red River College Polytechnic’s Technology Access Centre for Aerospace & Manufacturing (TACAM) invites you to join our IRC 5 Programming I Course — a high-impact training designed to equip industry professionals with hands-on skills in ABB robotics.

As an ABB-certified training institution, RRC Polytech offers in-person instruction led by an ABB Robotics Certified Trainer, ensuring top-tier, industry-relevant learning that you can apply immediately on the job.

TACAM focuses on empowering today’s workforce with real-world, cutting-edge skills. This course dives deep into robot operation and programming using both the teach pendant and RobotStudio Online, ABB’s powerful simulation and offline programming software.

This course is ideal for industry professionals responsible for:

· Starting and operating ABB industrial robots

· Creating and editing robot programs

· Managing robotic systems in real-world manufacturing settings

Participants will gain hands-on experience in:

· Robot system safety practices

· Manual and automatic robot operation

· Event message interpretation

· Program management (load, create, save, delete, check, edit)

· Robot synchronization and calibration

· Tool center point (TCP) creation using the 4-point method

· Input/output instruction management

· Creating and using routines effectively

Upcoming course dates:

· July 14–18, 2025

· September 15–19, 2025

· October 20–24, 2025

Contact Gaganpreet Singh at gsingh199@rrc.ca to secure your spot.

To demonstrate the impact that applied research projects make on all Manitobans, we present RPI’s 20 Stories for 20 Years. A compilation showcasing successful partnerships from the past and the present, with a constant focus on the future.

Established in 2004, Research Partnerships & Innovation (RPI) leads the applied research  enterprise at RRC Polytech. RPI is a gateway for industry and community to access the vast base of knowledge, capabilities, facilities and networks that reside at Red River College Polytechnic — a Canadian leader in applied research (AR) and commercialization.

RPI also proactively identifies practical AR opportunities that can provide mutual benefit to both the College and potential partners of all sizes with a focus on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Through our Office of Applied Research Services (OARS), RPI oversees the administration of all research activities across the College.

Along with granting a variety of credentials and delivering skilled trades programming, AR is one of three pillars that define a polytechnic. It connects all areas of the College, it differentiates us from other post-secondaries in Manitoba, and our unique approach to align Research with Indigenous Strategy and Business Development positions us as a leader on the global stage.  

In its two decades of existence, our AR operation has reached an impressive scale through hard work, relationship building and a focused effort to lead innovation in Manitoba. Through our wide array of leading-edge facilities, expertise and technology, we can essentially support any industry, business or community, at any stage. We are eager to strengthen our leadership position in the innovation ecosystem and collaborate on AR projects that drive progress across our province and beyond.

RPI’s areas of specialization include: 

• Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics 
• Cleantech with focus on EV and building efficiency 
• Health, nutrition and social sciences with focus on culinary research and food innovation 
• Early childhood development research 
• Enabling adoption of digital technologies including AI and automation  

Through collaborative AR projects, we help transform the dreams and ideas of our partners into reality while providing students with invaluable experience through work-integrated learning. Our award-winning work is often admired as the gold standard, and has driven Manitoba forward economically, environmentally, socially and culturally – positioning the province for success in a globally competitive environment.

RRC Polytech has been demonstrating what is possible in Manitoba for 20 years. We want to thank our generous funders and supporters, and of course, all of our partners for trusting us to help achieve their goals by developing new products and processes that drive growth for everyone. We look forward to building on those relationships, as together, we’ll create a prosperous, sustainable and inclusive future for all.

In acknowledgement of our 20^th anniversary, we wanted to showcase some of the successes we’ve shared with our partners, past and present. Each week we’ll release a new installment of this online series entitled RPI’s 20 Stories for 20 Years. We’ll provide recaps of previous posts and include updates on related accomplishments achieved since the original publish dates. We’ll also explain what our talented teams learned along the way to make us better at what we do and how the project made a positive impact on RRC Polytech.

With thousands of projects to choose from, we’re confident these stories will highlight our strengths and capabilities, show the depth and breadth of the work we do, and spark interest in pursuing an AR collaboration with us.

Please enjoy these stories and reach out to rpi@rrc.ca so that your innovation can be featured at RPI’s 25^th Anniversary!

Dr. Jolen Galaugher

Executive Director, Research Partnerships & Innovation, RRC Polytech

To demonstrate the impact that applied research projects make on all Manitobans, we present RPI’s 20 Stories for 20 Years. A compilation showcasing successful partnerships from the past and the present, with a constant focus on the future.

Parents share a universal desire to have their children grow up to be happy, healthy, and productive. RRC Polytech is helping the early childhood education system that supports parents and their children to greatly increase their likelihood of success by building on its local and international leadership role in knowledge mobilization and bringing the world’s best science to policy and practice.

A forerunner of all applied research at the College, Early Childhood Development Research (ECDR) has been impacting the work of early childhood educators (ECEs), both across Canada and on a global scale for decades through the development, promotion, and adoption of the Science of Early Child Development (SECD) initiative. SECD is based on the increased understanding that early brain development in children (including before birth) is influenced by the environment and experiences that surround them and sets the foundation for lifelong health, learning, and wellness.

“This is some of the most important work that anyone can be doing – elevating and strengthening the lives of children from their earliest years for their future and ours,” said Dr. Rob Santos, Chair of Early Childhood Development Research at RRC Polytech. “From early childhood educators working on the floor with kids and their families at early learning centres; to ECE instructors; to working in policy; our team brings together an incredible breadth and depth of experience and expertise. We’re proud to collaborate with partners who make positive impacts on families and communities here in Manitoba and across the world.”

And that includes working for over a decade now with Dr. Joseph Sparling of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Melbourne, to develop and deliver training for his evidence-based Abecedarian Approach to early childhood education that is proven to improve lifelong developmental, learning, health, and social outcomes for children, especially in families and communities with the greatest needs.

The Abecedarian Approach is comprised of four main components: Language Priority, Conversational Reading, Interaction Games, and Enriched Caregiving.

Emphasizing language skills as the core of early learning, the approach promotes reading and communication along with high-quality adult-child interaction for stronger cognitive, social, and emotional development in children.

“Over 50 years of longitudinal research around the world shows children who participated in the Abecedarian Approach are more likely to complete high school, complete post-secondary education, have a job, healthier lifestyles, and better mental health. It also leads to better heart health and less metabolic syndrome as adults. They’re also less likely to be involved in criminal activity and more likely to be socially inclusive, treating others with greater fairness and equity,” said Santos. “Even more amazingly, Abecedarian leads to bigger, better brain structure as adults that can be seen in MRI scans. The first-ever scientific demonstration that enriching early childhood experience produces long-term improvements in brain development.”

The Abecedarian Approach was first piloted in Canada at the Lord Selkirk Park Child Care Centre in Winnipeg in 2012, which hosts many First Nations, Métis, and newcomer children. Its success included a significant advance in confirming that Abecedarian was both culturally welcomed and effective for these important groups.

After years of lobbying and writing proposals, Morrow Early Learning and Child Development (MELCD) received funding for full implementation in 2023 as part of an Abecedarian expansion initiative across Manitoba. And while the organization already utilized many Abecedarian strategies, Executive Director, Bonnie Ash describes the results as a dream come true.

“This program needs to be in every preschool – it’s being done in countries all over the world because it works. We found that aggressive behavior was down because kids had more attention. They learn through play. They’re having fun and learning what they need to move them on to the next step in life, which is to prepare them to succeed in school,” explained Ash. “When you walk into a room and you observe these children within even two weeks, there is such a noticeable difference in their language, how they communicate, even with each other, so we know it works.”

In partnership with Dr. Sparling and Kimberly Meunier of the Abecedarian Education Foundation, RRC Polytech is proud to have the Canadian rights to Abecedarian training and supports its industry and community partners with ongoing interaction – to not only document results for further study, but to connect with those on the front lines to enhance program delivery.

“We have a strong relationship, and I think RRC Polytech has done a fabulous job,” added Ash. “Each team member has a particular specialty and works directly with our ECEs to provide appropriate training and support. They also make themselves available to enhance training during our dedicated professional development days.”

With the intention of always attempting to meet the needs of families, MELCD continues to build trusting relationships with its clients. Responding to a need in the community many years ago, MELCD experimented by opening the first unofficial, daytime, parent-child support centre in Manitoba. This program currently operates only after hours/evenings to ensure that support is available to families who work or attend school.

“By listening, surveying, and observing family interactions we are able to share the program’s benefits across the community we serve and ultimately promote the power of education for everyone,” said Ash.

“When families and the people serving their young children see the immediate and ripple effects in terms of the child’s outcomes, it’s hard not to be inspired,” said Santos. “We found that there were inspirational effects on the parents themselves in terms of their own learning and drive to pursue their own training opportunities.”