Corporate Training Magazine

Industry News and Events
Vol 2 Issue 3- May 2006

Leaders chosen to help chart Alberta's future in information and communications technology

Leading scientists and entrepreneurs have been named to the board of the new Alberta Information and Communications Technology Institute, to provide leadership and guidance in expanding Alberta's information and communications technology (ICT) sector.

The Alberta government has identified ICT as a priority sector to build on Alberta's existing strengths and develop a more globally competitive, knowledge-based economy. Establishing an ICT institute is the next step in implementing the Alberta Science and Research Authority's ICT strategy Information and Communications Technology: A Strategy for Alberta. This strategy has led to many successful projects and the creation of substantial infrastructure. Some important outcomes from this strategy include: the Alberta SuperNet, the Alberta Informatics Circle of Research Excellence (iCORE), Alberta Ingenuity's Centre for Machine Learning, investments in WestGrid and Netera, and the establishment of the National Institute for Nanotechnology in Edmonton.

"Information and communications technology is the fastest growing economic sector in the world, with a wide range of applications in just about every area of our lives," said Victor Doerksen, Minister of Innovation and Science. "The ICT Institute will play a vital role in guiding industry growth and positioning Alberta for success in the global knowledge based economy."

The Institute's board will provide strategic advice and policy recommendations and set priorities for research. It will expand and update the province's existing ICT research and innovation strategy and provide direction for public investment in research and development activities throughout the province.