Applied Research

Dr. Kathryn Bockhold leads Okanagan College research in examining solutions to re-purpose beverage industry by-products in British Columbia. The project explores transforming waste from wineries, breweries, and cideries into valuable resources for industrial use. This new applied research initiative promotes sustainability and circular economy practices.

“British Columbia has a successful fermented beverage industry, and these businesses produce a large volume of by-products. Solutions are needed to improve sustainability and create new value for an industry facing growing pressures from climate change,” said Kerry Rempel, Director of Applied Research at Okanagan College.

Interested in participating or learning more?

Contact Dr. Kathryn Bockhold at kbockhold@okanagan.bc.ca

Visit okanagan.bc.ca/applied-research to explore more applied research initiatives.

Students in TOUR 225: Emerging Trends in Destination Management, taught by Tania Rutt, conducted a study about Kelowna’s “shoulder season” - the season between peak and off-peak travel seasons.

Partnering with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and the Applied Research Department at Okanagan College, and funded by NSERC, the industry-student collaboration highlighted valuable insights. 

Students were involved in: 

• Field research at key tourist locations.
• Data collection via surveys and PhotoVoice
• And analysis of themes such as outdoor activities and transportation.

The ARTP Project enhances the profitability and sustainability of local fermented beverage companies by helping them adopt environmentally-driven solutions across their operations.

Research focus areas:

Water and wastewater

• Researchers are exploring opportunities to reuse water within the production cycle
• Focus on improving wastewater treatment and management

These strategies help businesses conserve resources and reduce costs.

Reduction and up-cycling

• Addresses ways to minimize raw material inputs
• Transforming by-products into valuable secondary products. 

The goal is to minimize waste and generate new revenue streams for producers.

The KINdling Project encourages people across modern Canada to engage in meaningful change within their families, organizations, and communities. 

Rooted in Indigenous knowledge and practices, the project explores how Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups can work together to address the complex issues of decolonization, resistance, resurgence, and healing.

Through a guided training program, participants will:

• Recognize and transform harmful systemic patterns
• Explore their own identities
• Build new skills for leadership and social change
• Connect with supports committed to truth and reconciliation

This training will allow participants to lead with understanding, accountability, and care.

Dr. Colin Wallace leads research investigating how students transition back to the classroom after a traumatic head injury. 

Partnering with BrainTrust Canada, and funded by an NSERC Mobilize Grant, the project is developing a Return-to-Learn program. 

Return-to-Learn aims to: 

• Provide personalized accommodation.
• Ensure students can return to their studies while healing.
• And bridge the gap between return-to-sport strategies and academic recovery. 

Learn more.