In the recently-signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), both parties agreed to pursue research and innovation as part of a partnership that matches expertise from UBC Okanagan’s School of Engineering with the innovation goals of Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group.

“We wanted to harness the knowledge and ideas of our team members to advance innovation, and through this partnership with UBC, we now have access to the skills, knowledge and facilities that we didn’t have prior,” said Dan Allan, senior vice-president, Kal Tire’s Mining Tire Group. “Research like this fuels the innovation that takes great ideas forward.”

The MOU lays out an initial three-year term of collaboration on mutually beneficial areas of research as well as Kal Tire’s investment in the partnership. Individual researchers will submit their project ideas for consideration to a small committee that represents both Kal Tire and UBC Okanagan's School of Engineering. The projects may include everything, from robotics and metallurgical design to environmentally-responsible ways to use recycled tyre crumb.

“As a campus committed to innovation, we look forward to bringing our research expertise to bear in this exciting new partnership,” said Deborah Buszard, deputy vice-chancellor and principal of UBC’s Okanagan campus. “We see this partnership as another key step in our goal of helping to advance economic development opportunities in our region.”