The mining and minerals industry in Western Canada is on the cusp of a transformative shift, as the P2INACLE pilot project kicks off with a bold vision to tackle sector-specific challenges head-on. This initiative, backed by PrairiesCan and spearheaded by a consortium of prairie polytechnics, aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical industry solutions. The project is not just about innovation; it’s about fostering a collaborative ecosystem that drives economic growth and creates quality jobs.
Terry Duguid, Minister of PrairiesCan, underscored the importance of cooperation in driving success on the prairies. “Success on the prairies has always been built on cooperation. That’s why our government is supporting P2INACLE—a partnership bringing prairie polytechnics together to turn research into practical solutions,” Duguid stated. This collaborative approach is set to redefine how applied research can empower communities far beyond the prairies.
The partnership between P2INACLE and the Innovation Mining Industry Institute (IMII) is expected to promote cross-disciplinary collaboration focused on industry needs and solutions. Al Shpyth, executive director of IMII, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative. “We are excited to be part of the P2INACLE pilot project, a significant step forward in fostering innovation and collaboration within Western Canada’s mining and minerals sector,” Shpyth commented. “This initiative will address key industry challenges and harness the collective expertise of polytechnics and industry partners across the prairies, driving both economic growth and technological advancements.”
The collaborative applied research network will officially launch in March in Saskatoon, bringing together P2INACLE researchers and IMII partners. In May, the momentum will continue as P2INACLE researchers join mining and minerals industry professionals at IMII’s IDEATE 2025 event. This gathering will not only highlight industry challenges but also facilitate teamwork on various applied research projects, setting the stage for groundbreaking solutions.
Alicia Cafferata, Applied Research Specialist at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) and lead for the Prairie Polytechnic Network, shared her institution’s excitement about the project. “We are excited to join our partners across western Canada as part of the P2INACLE pilot project,” Cafferata said. “We look forward to contributing to P2INACLE through providing advanced manufacturing and energy innovation expertise, as well as equipment. We’re also excited to hire RDP students who will contribute to the success of these applied research projects. At RDP, we are always proud to collaborate with industry partners to advance economic growth, promote innovation and increase productivity across western Canada.”
RDP is committed to growing applied research in four key areas: manufacturing and advanced manufacturing; energy innovation; health care and health technology; and social innovation. The institution’s Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing-Technology Access Centre (CIM-TAC) is a pivotal facility where much of this applied research takes place. Equipped with $7.6 million in prototype and advanced manufacturing equipment, CIM-TAC saw 57 completed projects and $15 million in investments and revenue in the 2023-24 school year. This includes a significant $12.9 million investment by the Government of Alberta, supporting an expansion to 30,000 square feet from 15,000, expected to occur over the next two years.
This initiative is poised to reshape the mining and minerals sector in Western Canada. By fostering a collaborative environment that leverages the strengths of polytechnics and industry partners, P2INACLE is set to drive innovation, economic growth, and technological advancements. The sector can expect to see a surge in applied research projects that address real-world challenges, leading to more efficient and sustainable mining practices. This collaborative effort is not just about solving problems; it’s about setting a new standard for how applied research can empower communities and drive progress. The mining industry in Western Canada is on the brink of a new era, and P2INACLE is leading the charge.