Red Deer Polytechnic

Behind every grad who walks across the stage, there’s a story of challenges, perseverance, dedication, and growth. What does the next chapter hold? 📖

Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎓

Morning Livestream at 9:30 am: https://www.youtube.com/live/i-fnntwHZIk
Afternoon Livestream at 2:00 pm: https://www.youtube.com/live/83vq7YeIPeQ

During the upcoming 62nd Convocation, more than 1,080 graduates (the largest graduating class in our history) will cross the stage to their next chapter. During the ceremonies, Debra Lynn Murphy will receive the Governor General’s Academic Medal (Collegiate Bronze Level) for achieving the highest overall academic standing amongst the 2026 graduating class. Murphy completed a Legal Assistant Diploma, earning 14 A+ and seven A grades while maintaining a GPA of 4.0 throughout the program. rdpolytech.ca/news/debra-murphy-2026-governor-generals-academic-medal

In addition, Laura Abraham will be acknowledged as the recipient of the Alberta Teachers' Association Gold Medal in Education. Abraham was selected by RDP faculty for demonstrating the highest general proficiency in her coursework and field experiences. rdpolytech.ca/news/laura-abraham-alberta-teachers-association-gold-medal-education

The Polytechnic is also celebrating the first graduating classes of its dual credit Health Care Aide Certificate program, providing high school learners an opportunity to begin post-secondary studies.

For the full story, see here: rdpolytech.ca/news/rdp-ready-celebrate-graduates-2026-convocation-ceremonies

We're looking forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 with families, faculty, staff and community members at its 62nd Convocation taking place on June 5. More than 1,080 RDP graduates from 2026 will attend the morning and afternoon ceremonies in the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre, marking the largest graduating class in the Polytechnic’s history.

This year, Red Deer Polytechnic will be granting an Honorary Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies Degree to both Randy Ermineskin and Dianne Finstad Harder at the Convocation ceremonies. The prestigious honorary degrees recognize individuals who have made an outstanding social, cultural, or economic contribution locally, provincially and nationally.

Ermineskin is a lifelong educator and leader dedicated to strengthening Indigenous communities. A former Ermineskin Cree Nation Chief, President of Yellowhead Tribal College and Treaty Six Grand Chief, he has championed education and Treaty rights for decades. Now pursuing doctoral studies, he continues to advance Indigenous led learning. His guidance to Red Deer Polytechnic has shaped conversations on reconciliation, governance and community partnership, reflecting his commitment to mentorship and educational empowerment. rdpolytech.ca/news/randy-ermineskin-2026-honorary-degree-recipient

Finstad Harder has spent more than 40 years elevating rural Alberta’s stories through trusted, award‑winning agricultural and rodeo reporting. Raised on a ranch in Manyberries, Alberta, she built a distinguished broadcasting career with CKRD and programs like “This Business of Farming” and “Makin’ 8”. A mentor and post‑secondary contributor, she has shaped public understanding of Western heritage. Her celebrated work reflects RDP’s values of community, applied learning and uplifting others. rdpolytech.ca/news/dianne-finstad-harder-2026-honorary-degree-recipient

Since 2014, Red Deer Polytechnic has bestowed Honorary Degrees to 17 individuals, including Ermineskin and Finstad Harder.

Read the full story here: https://rdpolytech.ca/news/rdp-ready-celebrate-graduates-2026-convocation-ceremonies

Three events. Three champions!

Congratulations to our 2026 Skills Canada / Compétences Canada National competitors!

🥇 Ty McCartney - Carpentry

🥇 Nathan Brehaut - Sprinkler Systems Installation

🥇 Dane Schmidt - Welding

Thank you to all of their coaches & instructors, and supporters!

Skills Canada Alberta

We're grateful to partner with the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre to host the Transforming Practices Conference. Important conversations were had, with some of the sessions featuring RDP Faculty and Students.

More than 500 attendees, including teachers, counselors, doctors, therapists, social workers, and other frontline workers from across Alberta gathered on RDP campus to learn and explore emerging practices that support child advocacy and abuse prevention.

"Whether we are addressing child abuse, exploitation, mental health concerns, violence, or family adversity, meaningful change happens when education, healthcare, justice, social services, and community organizations work together. That collaborative approach is at the heart of the Sheldon Kennedy Centre of Excellence and the reason this conference exists. Transforming Practices creates space for professionals to share knowledge, challenge assumptions, and strengthen the partnerships that ultimately lead to better outcomes for children, youth, and families." - Mark Jones, CEO of the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre and the Sheldon Kennedy Centre of Excellence.

Read the full story here: rdpolytech.ca/news/transforming-practices-conference-advances-child-advocacy

Ready to grow your business and connect with the leaders shaping our region?

Mark your calendar for the Central Alberta Industry Connector Forum! This is your chance to gain exclusive access to major projects happening right here in Central Alberta. Whether you are looking to network with industry professionals, secure new business deals, or find your next great hire, this is the event where leadership, business, and capital connect.

Event Details:
Date: June 12, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Olds College Alumni Centre (Olds, AB)
Tickets: $97 + fee

Don’t miss out on one of the biggest conferences in the region!

🎟️ Buy your tickets now on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/central-alberta-industry-connector-forum-tickets-1986546009591?aff=oddtdtcreator

Day 1 of Transforming Practices was an impactful day with plenty of learning and connections. Keynote speakers Tyler Smith and Jessica Janzen joined us, along with many other session speakers and then an evening mixer followed.

We're looking forward to seeing what Day 2 holds! Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre