July 9, 2012 – GE Canada recently opened a GE Innovation Centre in Calgary, Alta., focused on “commercial discovery and collaboration”. The first of its kind for GE in North America, the centre leverages GE’s expertise to “address challenges across the energy, healthcare, transportation and finance sectors”.

“We view Canada as an important participant in the growth of the global economy,” said John Rice, vice-chair GE, and president & CEO GE Global Growth and Operations. “Alberta’s position as a global energy leader, along with its entrepreneurial success, and commitment to research and innovation are key attributes that influenced GE’s location decision.”

GE says the Innovation Centre provides access to state-of-the-art technology, advanced engineering, analytic tools and real-time data while connecting local and global subject matter experts. GE’s Global Heavy Oil Centre of Excellence addressing Canadian and global energy needs will be a core component of the centre.

“To strengthen Canada’s global competitiveness we need to build a culture of innovation and collaboration,” said Elyse Allan, president and CEO, GE Canada. “This requires improving processes for commercialization and execution.”