“Originally roads and transportation made this the ideal location
for our manufacturing facility. 28 years later we're here because of
the people. We've got good people, and that's what makes us a
success in Southeast Alberta.”
EDA offers support to industry through its Innovation Facilitator
The Unmanned Vehicle System industry is providing stable work for innovative companies in technology, software and manufacturing. Recognized, both on a provincial and regional scale as having a smart work force of people highly skilled and knowledgeable about UVS, this diversified industry is providing opportunity in areas such as: telecommunications, engineering, metal fabrication and component assembly. However, focused on becoming part of the new diverse economy, entrepreneurs and innovators require access to innovation services both to capitalize and create cutting-edge technologies.
Southeast Alberta is the region of entrepreneurial success; therefore, the Economic Development Alliance of Southeast Alberta has hired an innovations facilitator to assist individuals in such things as: starting their own business, finding financial support through grants, loans, investors, tax credit and other forms of programs while aiding in expansion and growth. Showing strength in his experience Pete Loignon, the region’s Innovation Facilitator has a background in aviation and aerospace. Loignon’s education background is as an Engineering Technologist of Avionics, with a specialty in aerospace. Owner of a small company that developed and built Unmanned Air Vehicles, he’s also practiced in “lean”, a procedure focused on streamlining companies to reduce costs and wastage. There is no costfor Pete’s services. Funding from the Industrial Research Assistance Program of the National Research Canada Council and the EDA made this possible.
"Today’s economy is presenting a lot of opportunities, the oil & gas industry is shifting their thinking towards technology; from the forums I’ve attended this sector is undergoing a lot of research and development, and we can anticipate more in the future. I’m forecasting huge change, a lot shifting from the oil sands,” explains Loignon. “In general, there are a lot of technological advancements, everybody’s trying to move ahead, recognizing that there’s always room for improvements and new inventions. We’re here to help.”
Along with Pete’s role, the EDA offers an experienced Business Development Manager to take the guess work out of the process and provide access and information to Provincial and Federal programs, partners and resources that can help your business expand. For more information on the services provided by the EDA visit www.edalliance.ca or contact us at info@edalliance.ca or 403 488-7015.