NWP Research Exploring Tools for Success in Energy & Trades

As Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) recognizes National Skilled Trade and Technology Week (November 2-6), new applied research is examining how workplaces can better support the mental health and well-being of workers in energy and trades sectors.

In partnership with the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention (RCSP) and regional industry partners, NWP is now entering into the second year of a three-year federally funded research project, One is Too Many: A Collaborative Approach to Psychological Health and Safety and Suicide Prevention. 

Led by Dr. Connie Korpan, Olivia Stevenson, and Tracy Golnick, the project examines workplace conditions and occupational stressors that can affect workers’ mental health, with the goal of developing practical tools and recommendations for industries across Alberta and beyond. The research team is currently recruiting both industry leaders and workers to participate in the study and contribute their perspectives toward creating healthier, safer workplaces and advancing suicide prevention efforts.

“Strong, sustainable industries depend on more than technical skills and training. They also depend on the health and well-being of the people who keep them moving,” said Dr. Vanessa Sheane, NWP President and CEO. 

“By working alongside industry and community partners, NWP is helping turn applied research into practical solutions that support workers, strengthen workplaces, and contribute to the long-term success of northern Alberta’s economy.”

Workers in energy and trades occupations can face unique pressures, including isolation, irregular schedules, extended periods away from home, hazardous working conditions, and limited access to mental health resources. While technical training and physical safety remain essential, understanding and addressing these psychological demands is also important to workforce well-being, productivity, and long-term industry sustainability.

“Using a Participatory Action Research approach, the research team is working directly with industry partners and workers across different roles and experience levels to better understand their experiences,” said Dr. Connie Korpan, NWP Research Lead.  

“The findings will inform recommendations aligned with the National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace."

The project has also created opportunities for NWP students to participate in applied research, gaining experience with industry challenges, research methods, and collaborative problem-solving. Three students are currently contributing to the project through a comprehensive literature review, participant recruitment, data collection, and knowledge mobilization activities. 

Key project outcomes will include a comprehensive report on workplace stressors and their impacts, a practical toolkit to help industry leaders develop and implement psychological health and safety programs, and a Future Directions paper identifying opportunities for further research.

Project partners include the Resource Centre for Suicide Prevention, CDN Controls, Northern Mat & Bridge LP, and the County of Grande Prairie. The project is supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

National Skilled Trade and Technology Week recognizes the people, skills, and industries that contribute to Canada's economy. Through applied research and industry collaboration, NWP is helping address the workforce challenges facing these sectors, including the importance of creating workplaces where people are supported, safe, and able to build lasting careers.

For more information about the project, including how to participate, please visit NWP.me/OneTooMany.