Digital media and technology school RED Academy is making another big push to expand its design-focused curriculum as it announces the opening of its second location in Toronto. The move comes the same month that the academy announced that it was partnering with Spring Activator to create a skills and innovation hub in Vancouver.
At its new Toronto location, RED Academy will be offering part-time courses in digital marketing, UX design, and web development beginning in May, with full time courses beginning in July. RED Academy often makes the point that what separates their agency-style program from others is that students work with professionals on real projects — while startups, social ventures, and nonprofits access help in their digital strategies, students can build their portfolio.
“There are limited industry-standard resources for those who want to learn UX and digital marketing in Toronto,” said Mandy Gilbert, co-founder of RED Academy. Gilbert is also the founder of Creative Niche, a technology recruitment firm that matches creative talent with companies. “And these skills are not just for those looking for a career change, but also for current professionals looking to build upon their role. A lot of companies are asking for custom training to keep their teams up to speed in the digital space.”
Toronto is currently home to 35 percent of Canada’s technology businesses, while Toronto tech companies reported a combined revenue of more than $52 billion in 2009. Vancouver, where RED Academy is based, 86,000 people are employed by the tech sector.
The new 5,300 square foot space will be located at #100 – 462 Wellington Street.
