A combination of applied research expertise and climate-aware programming enables polytechnics to take a leadership position for the transition to cleaner, greener infrastructure. A case in point, SAIT’s Green Building Technologies research division recently completed work on The Confluence – a green tech home built in partnership with Woodpecker European Timber Framing that produces more energy than it consumes. The Confluence is posed to achieve the Living Building Challenge’s highest certification. 

Polytechnics Canada sat down with Melanie Ross, the project’s research manager and Hayley Puppato, one of its coordinators, to discuss the effort. 

Read More > “Sustainable building: the transition to greener infrastructure”

Recovery is on Canada’s horizon.  Despite an initially slow rollout, Canada is now leading the vaccination race, which means now is the time for governments to put post-pandemic plans into action.  Canada’s recovery catalysts need to be out in full force, supporting equitable, green recovery among those most at risk of being left behind. 

Read More > “Leveraging polytechnics to support Canada’s post-pandemic recovery”

While it is impossible to identify an industry or individual who has been completely undisrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada’s post-secondary students have been on the receiving end of a disproportionate impact. For those in applied programs, the impact has been even more profound.  Over the past year, despite modifications to program delivery, hands-on learning and work placement opportunities have been hit hard.

Read More > “Investments in applied learning innovations crucial to Canada’s frontline workforce”

Today marks World Intellectual Property Day.  While unlikely to spark a celebratory mood among most Canadians (let’s be honest, St. Patrick’s Day is much more fun), it is a day that warrants the attention of policymakers. 

Read More > “Intellectual property: The polytechnic advantage”