RRC Polytech’s Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technology students will soon get hands-on experience with Siemens equipment used in industry, thanks to an equipment donation from Siemens Canada. Starting in 2026, the equipment will be integrated into coursework and capstone projects, giving students the opportunity to put theory into practice using industry-grade tools.

Evan Himelstein, Chair, Electrical Engineering Technology, said this in-kind donation will enable students to take on more complex projects while building confidence with the tools they will encounter in the workforce.

“These are not educational tools. They are actual instruments that industry would use. So the students are getting true hands-on experience with things that they would get experience with when they start working,” said Himelstein. “They’ll replace using simulations or projects that your instructor thinks of.”

This experience is especially valuable for Manitoba’s manufacturing, processing, and automation sectors, where graduates are often expected to step into complex systems with minimal on-the-job ramp-up.

“This program is very highly sought-after for our graduates…just about any kind of automation company looks for grads from this program.”

The donation also enhances teaching and curriculum development. Access to this level of equipment allows instructors to design more advanced, open-ended projects that better reflect how industrial systems are built, integrated, and maintained in the field.

“Our team worked with Siemens to develop the list of equipment that we were going to get donated to us,” said Himelstein. “The staff are excited to see it… there are so many possibilities for what we can do with it, so it’s exciting to start thinking about new ways to incorporate it into learning.”

The Electrical Engineering Technology program focuses on instrumentation and process control, preparing students to work as integrators who ensure that complex industrial systems communicate and function effectively. With Siemens Canada’s donation of modern industrial instruments, students can now train on the same equipment used in today’s processing plants and automation environments.

“Siemens Canada is proud to support Red River College Polytechnic with this in-kind donation of advanced Radar and Ultrasonic Level Measurement Instruments and Controllers. This initiative goes beyond providing equipment,” said Joris Myny, Senior Vice President, Digital Industries, Siemens Canada.

“Our goal is to enrich the learning experience for students by offering them hands-on exposure to Siemens technology so that they are equipped with practical skills and an understanding of how our hardware and software address real-world challenges. By integrating these tools into training and research at RRC, we are strengthening the connection between academic learning and industrial application, helping to enable the next generation of talent to continue to contribute to a more sustainable future for Canada.”

Beyond the classroom, Siemens Canada’s donation strengthens RRC Polytech’s ability to collaborate with industry partners across Manitoba.

“Because we have this equipment, we could be looking at different industry connections, and it potentially would entice other employers to work with us,” said Himelstein.

This expanded access allows RRC Polytech to take on more industry-driven projects and strengthen employer partnerships, helping connect classroom learning with the needs of Manitoba’s workforce.

The relationship between RRC Polytech and Siemens Canada began when the Polytech became the first post-secondary institution in Manitoba to offer the Siemens Mechatronics Systems Certification Program (SMSCP) in January 2024.

The micro-credential program is delivered through the Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics, and continues to prepare participants for careers in modern manufacturing and automation.