To demonstrate the impact that applied research projects make on all Manitobans, we present RPI’s 20 Stories for 20 Years. A compilation showcasing successful partnerships from the past and the present, with a constant focus on the future.

Technology, innovation, and global connectivity drive success in the aerospace industry. Magellan Aerospace Winnipeg’s long-standing partnership with RRC Polytech reinforces that all three factors are often fuelled by the building and nurturing of local relationships. The innovative leaders in their respective fields have been teaming up for over twenty years now and both partners are soaring to new heights as a result of their mutually beneficial collaborations.

Generating almost a billion dollars in revenue in 2024, Magellan Aerospace Limited engineers and manufactures complex components and assemblies for aerospace markets around the world, including advanced products for defence and space markets, as well as complementary specialty products.

Manitoba’s only polytechnic, the province’s largest institute of applied learning and research, offers unparallelled access to specialized facilities and expertise through its Technology Access Centre for Aerospace and Manufacturing (TACAM).

Together, their applied research projects explore new products and processes with the potential to advance the company’s capabilities on the world stage and build on the College’s reputation as a Canadian research leader while helping to train the workforce of tomorrow.

“By working with Magellan to develop leading-edge technology, we’re not only helping to address their current challenges but also strengthening our capabilities and expanding our capacity to support future research initiatives and industry-driven projects,” said Dr. Gbenga Asala, Research Professional, RRC Polytech. “With experts on both teams regularly working across each other’s facilities and collaborating toward shared goals, knowledge transfer is a massive advantage that can benefit future projects and potentially develop into subsequent applications that support other partners.”

Their latest three-year advanced composite manufacturing project, led by Dr. Asala, is scheduled for completion in the fall. The project aims to integrate automated lay-up and novel forming technologies into Magellan’s F-35 Lightning II fighter jets. Automating a manual process will create time and workforce efficiency, improve precision and allow real-time inspections for quality control, while establishing RRC Polytech as a hub for access to these technologies and related training.

“This project is a prime example of a collaboration between academia, industry, research organizations and funders that is helping Manitoba and Canada build an ecosystem that supports long-term innovation and economic growth,” said Dr. Asala. “Because our students are gaining hands-on experience through direct participation in the project, we’re also helping to develop the next generation of highly qualified personnel (HQP) in advanced manufacturing.”

Magellan Aerospace Limited is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, however the Winnipeg facility remains its largest operation with over 700 employees, many of them graduates of RRC Polytech, including General Manager, Ron Drepaul.

“The College gave me my start and instilled values I carry with me to this day – collaboration, hard work, and a willingness to learn,” said Drepaul, RRC Polytech’s 2024 recipient of the Distinguished Graduate Award, one of its highest honours.

“I look at RRC Polytech graduates as a pipeline of fresh talent with the skills and dedication we need for the future of aerospace in Manitoba. And it’s not just technology. We need all kinds of professionals. Business Administration is essential for us. We employ accountants, buyers, contract administrators, and program managers.”

Magellan also invests in RRC Polytech students through work-integrated learning opportunities, awards and bursaries, and mentorship to ensure graduates gain the experience and skillsets required to join their team and continue strengthening their competitive position in the global aerospace market.

“The sky is the limit for RRC Polytech graduates,” he shared. “With the right skills and a drive to keep learning, today’s students can help shape the future of aerospace – and we’re counting on them to do just that.”