Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Natural Resources Technology programs receive SREDA award

Tanner, Brianne (student applied researchers), Scott Lipsit (program head), David Halstead (instructor) and Leila Benmerrouche (research assistant)
Tanner, Brianne (student applied researchers), Scott Lipsit (program head), David Halstead (instructor) and Leila Benmerrouche (research assistant)

Inaugural award celebrates outstanding individuals, partnerships and innovation in science and technology training in Saskatoon region


Nov 18, 2016 –Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Natural Resources faculty and staff received a team award at the first annual Science, Technology, Innovation and Collaboration (STIC) Awards ceremony hosted by Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) on November 15, 2016.

The SREDA Team Award celebrates the work done by a team of individuals who add value to the provincial economy by creating jobs, wealth and knowledge. Working together to deliver a variety of programs such as Integrated Resource Management, Resource and Environmental Law and Geographic Information Science for Resource Management, the Natural Resources Technology team delivers on these requirements each and every day.

“Receiving this award is a great testament to our Natural Resources Technology faculty, staff and students at our Prince Albert campus,” says Jamie Hilts, Sask Polytech’s dean of the School of Mining, Energy and Manufacturing as well as the school of Natural Resources and Built Environment. “For several years the concept of looking at the teaching and learning environment in a collaborative and collegial fashion has very much cultivated an environment for sharing of both human and capital resources, but also a shared ownership for solving problems. This has benefited both the program and the learners by being able to witness how an effective team environment can function. I am very proud of all who contributed to this award.”

Recently, the Natural Resources team has acquired new airborne terrestrial mapping and hydroacoustic technologies. This new equipment means faculty can provide students with more hands-on learning experiences that lead to work-ready graduates.

“This award is quite an honour,” says Scott Lipsit, Sask Polytech Natural Resources program head. “We work hard to ensure we are embracing the latest technologies to ensure we continue to provide our students with cutting-edge programming that prepares them for their career.”

Sask Polytech fosters applied research and innovation by connecting business, industry and community members with the academic expertise, leading edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities. Having access to the latest technologies means faculty can take on new and innovative applied research projects that tackle some of the greatest issues regarding Saskatchewan’s natural environment, and support industry and governmental professionals in their work to preserve it.

“We are very happy to support this team and help them access the technologies they need to conduct research that has very real implications for our province,” says Dr. Susan Blum, associate vice-president of the Office of Applied Research and Innovation. “The Natural Resources Technology team continues to design and implement research projects that have tremendous value – this award is well deserved.”

Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves 27,000 distinct students through applied learning opportunities at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student needs, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

-30-

Cart