Northern College fuses applied research with entrepreneurship and innovation

TIMMINS, ON: Applied Research is not a new phenomenon in the College system, but Northern College certainly has taken its applied research program to a new level! Researching and helping solve industry problems, bringing authentic experiential learning opportunities directly to students are key elements of any college applied research department. However, in today’s entrepreneurial world where innovation stimulation is core to economic development, applied research has become even more integral to the college, and the student learning experience.

A formal ‘fusion” of applied research, along with entrepreneurship and innovation was the brainchild of Northern College’s faculty involved in developing the new five year strategic research plan. “This fusion is logical and faculty driven, which means this new plan is not only cutting age, but well embraced” says Dr. Audrey J. Penner, Vice President Academic and Student Success at Northern College. Applied research at Northern has encompassed many innovative projects, particularly in the fields of mining and engineering. “With the Center for Entrepreneurship now established, and a growing interest from faculty and students in these three areas, the idea to fuse applied research, entrepreneurship and innovation grew out of faculty workshops on applied research strategy.” added Dr. Penner. “To the best of my knowledge, we are the first college to take this step formally, but it is such a logical opportunity for enriching program delivery, while supporting industry needs through applied research activity. A new web site will be launched soon that helps link industry with the college and students to meet their needs in applied research, entrepreneurship and innovation.”