The Merit Contractors Association of Manitoba is dedicated to representing the diverse needs and interests of open shop contractors in our province. In line with its commitment to the industry’s success, the organization has made a substantial contribution to the School of Skilled Trades and Technologies at RRC Polytech, helping to shape the future of skilled trades for years to come.

Merit Manitoba recently pledged $300,000 to the College, allocating half of the funds to the creation of the Merit Contractors Association of Manitoba Endowment Fund and awards for Apprenticeship Trades students, and the remainder supporting the facilities, equipment, and ongoing programming within the School of Skilled Trades and Technologies.

The awards empower apprenticeship students to complete their programs and achieve their Red Seal designation, enabling them to re-enter industry with the needed skills and classification to help them succeed.

“At Merit Contractors, we believe in empowering the next generation of tradespeople. This investment is not just about creating opportunities to support young students – including women and diverse learners – and the programming for the trades at RRC Polytech, but also to support the future of our industry and community,” says Yvette Milner, President of Merit Contractors Association of Manitoba.  

The connection between Merit Manitoba and RRC Polytech runs deep, as many of the organization’s membership base and board members are RRC Polytech grads and partners themselves.

“This partnership with RRC Polytech is exciting because it’s something we’ve been envisioning for a few years,” continues Milner. “It’s finally come to fruition, allowing us to build a stronger, more skilled workforce for tomorrow.”

Thanks to this investment, students enrolled in the Apprenticeship programs within the Construction Trades have the opportunity to receive five awards of $1,000 each annually. The Merit Contractors Association of Manitoba Construction Trades Apprenticeship Awards aim to recognize outstanding achievement in trades, and to shape students to become future industry leaders.

The award is available to students enrolled in the following eligible Apprenticeship programs: Construction Electrician, Carpenter, Plumber, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, and Heavy Duty Mechanics.  

“Gifts like these are what enable us to continue making a positive impact on our students’ futures. Partnering with organizations like Merit Manitoba not only helps shape our students’ success and strengthen community connections, but also deepens our relationships with industry leaders,” says Derek Kochenash, Dean, School of Skilled Trades and Technologies at RRC Polytech. “This aligns perfectly with our commitments to address emerging needs, promote diversity, and foster broader partnerships and opportunities.” 

In recognition of this contribution, a classroom on the second level of the Skilled Trades and Technology Centre (T building) at Notre Dame Campus has been named in recognition of Merit Contractors Association. 

Dedicated to supporting open-shop contractors in the province, Merit Contractors Association of Manitoba encourages young people to view trades as a valuable and rewarding career path.  

A common sight for visitors to RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus every fall is swarms of Civil Engineering Technology students, honing their skills and surveying the College’s exterior grounds using state-of-the-art equipment.

Much of this important work happens because of the generous support of Lewis Instruments, central Canada’s leading supplier of measurement technology products, which provides the up-to-date gear that supports students’ learning outcomes – the same tools they will use once they enter industry.

“Lewis offers emerging technology in our advanced training that provides crucial exposure to the latest in technology,” says Tammy Harper, Chair, Civil Engineering Technology – Infrastructure at RRC Polytech. “Thanks to Lewis’s ongoing support, students in our Civil Engineering Technology, Geomatic Technology, and Construction Management programs are prepared for their future careers working in construction or as land surveyors once they graduate from RRC Polytech.”

Over the next five years, Lewis Instruments has pledged to provide over 2.5 million dollars in equipment to support RRC Polytech’s Civil Engineering Programs.

“Lewis Instruments proudly stands on over 75 years as a survey equipment supplier in central Canada,” says Nolan Klassen, Sales Manager at Lewis Instruments. “For 25 years as of 2024, we have aligned ourselves with RRC Polytech, providing support by equipping students with the latest in surveying technologies. This partnership not only gives students the needed hands-on experience, but also ensures a seamless transition from academia to the workforce.”

Lewis Instruments also supports future generations of civil engineer technologists through two awards: the Lewis Instruments Ltd. Scholarship & Louis Picard Memorial award, which provides $1,500 each to two students each year.

To recognize this ongoing support, RRC Polytech is naming Civil Engineering Technology’s Surveying Room (A120) after the company. This room is where this equipment is housed and where the students begin their journey into surveying.

“By equipping students with the tools they will encounter in their future roles, we contribute to their readiness for the industry, earning positive feedback from our business clients,” continues Klassen. “This collaboration demonstrates our strong commitment to the education and seamless integration of skilled graduates into the business sector.”

The relationship between RRC Polytech and Lewis Instruments is the perfect example of RRC Polytech’s strategic commitment to deepening partnerships to maximize prosperity across industry and community – a mutually beneficial collaboration that directly connects industry with future members of the workforce.

“Lewis Instruments has always been open to new ideas and opportunities to support our program and training. They continually go above and beyond to bring industry standards and emerging tech to our students,” says Harper. “They will also reach out to our instructors to explore the new technology to provide Lewis Instruments with feedback on their own industry training and understanding of how the new tech will be received by industry.”

Valuable support from donors like Lewis Instruments means RRC Polytech can continue to deliver and transform programs within its School of Skilled Trades and Technologies. This support empowers students with the most current tools, materials, and resources to prepare them for their future careers upon graduation.

On the first Tuesday after Black Friday, millions of people around the world support the global movement that is GivingTuesday. It first began in 2012 and has become one of the biggest fundraising days of the year driven by the generosity of people. GivingTuesday 2024 falls today, December 3.

RRC Polytech is the fortunate recipient of incredible generosity from its staff, students and extended community. One example of this is Greg Grande, an electrician and a member of the Facility Management team at RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus.

When Greg Grande installed a new EV charging station at the RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame campus this fall, he did it with one goal in mind: honouring his father Angelo’s spirit of generosity and passion for innovation.

Growing up, Greg remembers his dad as a man who was always fixing, building, and teaching. Angelo was the type who greeted each day with a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality and a keen eye for how things worked. His enthusiasm for new technologies left a deep impression on Greg.

“He was always into the next big thing, sometimes before the rest of us even knew about it,” says Greg. “Our house was always filled with the latest gadgets.”

Angelo’s expertise was boundless. As a concrete worker, plumber, electrician, and carpenter, he spent a lifetime mastering his trades and sharing his knowledge with anyone who needed a hand – be it a young apprentice or a neighbour struggling to build a backyard smokehouse.

To those who knew him, he was affectionately called “Maestro Angelo,” a nod not only to his skill but to his deep commitment to community service. Angelo’s devotion ran so deep that the City of Winnipeg even named a street after him – ‘Angelo Grande Bocce Way’. The street name commemorates how he taught people from all walks of life to play the game that meant so much to him, forging a stronger community in the process.

When Angelo passed away in 2021 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s, Greg found himself searching for a meaningful way to continue his dad’s legacy. It wasn’t until he bought an electric vehicle that the idea struck him: donating a charging station to RRC Polytech, where he’s worked for nearly 25 years, would honour both his father’s memory and passion for innovation “while giving back to a place that’s given so much to me.”

The new charging station aligns with RRC Polytech’s commitment to environmental responsibility, offering students and staff an accessible way to support sustainable practices. Located in M Building, it’s part of the College’s larger efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and encourage eco-friendly choices within the campus community.

Soon, a plaque in Angelo’s memory will be placed at the charging station, serving as a tangible reminder of the Grande family’s belief in giving back. “I don’t want his name to be forgotten,” says Greg, his voice full of emotion. “Maestro Angelo” may have been a term of respect, but to Greg, it’s also a call to action – a reminder to lift others up and leave things a little better than you found them.

For Greg, this gift is only the beginning. “My dad always said, if you’re going to give back, give back double.” He hopes this tribute will inspire others at RRC Polytech to find their own ways to make a difference – just as Angelo would have wanted.

Learn more about the ways you can support RRC Polytech.

Schroeder is a name that is synonymous with education in Manitoba. Walter and Maria Schroeder, born Winnipeggers and Manitobans, have formed their legacy around ensuring Manitoba students are set for success.

Today their legacy of giving is given an entirely new meaning – the Schroeder Foundation’s transformational gift of $15 million – the largest in RRC Polytech’s history – paves the way to continued growth and opportunity with the creation of a new prairie-based media arts hub: the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts (the Schroeder Institute).

This gift brings opportunity for RRC Polytech and its students, and for the creative sectors that thrive in the heart of Canada. For more than 70 years, creative thinkers explored ideas and sharpened their skills at RRC Polytech, and this gift re-energizes what is possible – enhancing programs, expanding innovation opportunities, and strengthening ties to industry.

Manitoba is a flourishing creative engine proving it is competitive across the prairies, the country, and beyond. Local training and talent are crucial to the success of the businesses that choose to operate here, and that is where RRC Polytech, and the Schroeder Institute, come in.  

“RRC Polytech and the Schroeder Foundation have a shared vision for the future and what we can make possible through education, collaboration, and research,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO RRC Polytech. “The Schroeder Foundation’s decision to make this tremendous investment in RRC Polytech reflects that there are visionaries invested in our community who recognize the value of what we are doing here to support students on their way into careers in creative industries. This gift today will enable us to create so many more opportunities for Manitobans and our creative industries together.”

This partnership is a representation of the movie-worthy story arc that the Schroeder family and RRC Polytech share – a history of humble beginnings leading to a path of advancing technology and industry in Canada and beyond. The Schroeder family and their foundation share the commitment to creating opportunity in Manitoba that RRC Polytech holds as a guiding principle.

RRC Polytech began as a small community college, and after almost a century of continuous growth and innovation, it is now a leader in producing job-ready graduates. This gift, and the creation of the Schroeder Institute, further cements RRC Polytech as a trusted partner that industry can rely on to produce job-ready grads and support existing employees with opportunities to expand their skills.

The Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts is where students push the limits of their skills and build their networks and industry connections. They are taught by instructors with a wealth of industry experience who support them as they learn the skills necessary to break into a career in their chosen field.  

Developed with a 14-person advisory committee deeply entrenched in creative industries to guide programming, the Schroeder Institute always has an edge on what the industry needs. 

The Schroeder Institute launches today with 12 core programs, but continues to enhance its offerings. Two new programs – Animation and Entertainment Production Management – launches in the fall of 2025 and industry informed micro-credential programs designed for current professionals to increase their skillsets will soon be added.

The Schroeder Foundation is an ongoing partner of RRC Polytech supporting student success, such as providing scholarships for their “Schroeder Students.” Now, this latest, and largest, investment of $15 million to ensure top creative arts programming, is a continuation of that support and legacy of giving in the spirit of furthering education.

“Maria and I grew up in Manitoba and will always be Winnipeggers. We believe in the work that RRC Polytech is doing to support students and the industries they aspire to be a part of,” said Walter Schroeder.

“We have lofty goals for the Institute. We believe it can attract creative sector industry partners – and students – from across Canada and around the world to Manitoba and Winnipeg, where they will discover the advantages of working, studying, and living here. And we believe the Institute can create pathways for secondary learners – like the students we support through Sisler’s CREATE program – to accelerate their careers in their home province. We can’t wait to see these relationships grow with other Winnipeg high schools and we are excited to support the Institute.” 

The Schroeder Institute will create a pipeline of newly skilled employees, foster deeper collaboration with industry and for the first time, RRC Polytech is creating an applied research program to foster innovation in emerging technologies in creative sectors.  The College’s ACE Project Space, alongside the Research Partnerships and Innovation team, will undertake projects aimed at establishing Canada’s leadership in animation, virtual production studios, and user-experience testing.

Areas of applied research opportunity within the Schroeder Institute are diverse and immense, from leveraging AI in media creation, exploring how to best utilize immersive technologies like virtual or augmented reality in productions, and how to reduce the carbon footprint of production.

Headquartered in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, and located in the heart of the Exchange District, the Schroeder Institute gives students direct access to the creative core of Winnipeg, while they learn in state-of-the-art facilities with top industry-grade equipment and tools.

The Schroeder family has long impacted Manitobans seeking higher education and today, that continues full speed ahead with the launch of the Schroeder Institute. Manitobans for many years to come will remember where they started their careers, and the name Schroeder will forever be a part of their stories.

“This gift from Walter and Maria through the Schroeder Foundation towards RRC Polytech’s comprehensive campaign “In Front of What’s Ahead,” is a rare example of truly transformational philanthropy that will uplift our community, industry partners, and students for generations to come,” said David Petis, Executive Director, Advancement, RRC Polytech. “It demonstrates what is possible with the support of community partners who believe in the value of a Polytechnic education and providing opportunities for young people looking to break into industries they are passionate about.” 

Learn more about the Schroeder Institute and how it will create opportunities for many students in the years ahead.

On July 2, Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) began its Youth Camps for 2024 welcoming 160 campers, the most campers in RRC Polytech’s history, to its Notre Dame Campus. Thanks to the support of the Carolyn Sifton Foundation (the Foundation), 100 of those campers are attending at no cost.

“In keeping with Carolyn Sifton’s concern for the welfare of children, the Foundation supports projects in education, social services, and art and culture designed to assist youth in developing to their fullest potential,” said Micah Sifton-LaLeune, Board Member of the Foundation.

“There is a great benefit to providing access to the summer camps and programs offered by RRC Polytech to allow children to learn new skills, develop their interests and expand their creativity. We look forward to seeing how this donation makes a positive impact on Winnipeg children and their families, enabling them to have a joyful summer filled with learning and exploration.”

The Foundation’s $40,000 donation to RRC Polytech’s In Front of What’s Ahead Comprehensive Campaign is supporting the College’s Youth Camps and made up to 100 spots available this year for campers who may not otherwise have been able to attend. Donations like this one can open doors and provide opportunities for young people, giving them the chance to learn in environments they would not normally have access to.

“These camps make learning fun and give campers a memorable experience that they can look back on when they are thinking about their future education and career. It is important to us that these camps are accessible to as many young people as possible,” said David Petis, Executive Director, Advancement, RRC Polytech. “The Carolyn Sifton Foundation is helping that goal be a reality this year by providing funding for more than two thirds of our campers. We are grateful that so many kids can take part this year thanks to the support of the Foundation and the vision of Carolyn Sifton.”

This year the College is offering seven camps, the most ever offered on campus, six of which have spots supported by the Carolyn Sifton Foundation. The camps being supported by the Foundation this year include Budding Business Leaders, Design Your Dream Room, Indigenous Cultural Exploration, Out and About Photography, Sweet Treats Baking Camp, and Wheels in Motion.

The camp offerings continue to diversify and grow in response to labour market trends and thanks to the support of donors like the Carolyn Sifton Foundation. Whether engaging with Indigenous culture, constructing a valve cover racer, exploring trades and technology, or playing classic camp games, campers have had a fun-filled experience at RRC Polytech’s youth summer camps this year.

The 2024 camps are nearly complete, but youth initiatives are available throughout the year. View more youth opportunities available on RRC Polytech campuses.

Concord Projects, longtime supporter of RRC Polytech, continues to positively impact learners with the recent announcement of $100,000 donation that will support the growth and success of RRC Polytech’s skilled trades and technologies programs, including Architectural/Engineering Technology, Construction Management, and Structural Engineering Technology.

Nolan Ploegman, President and CEO of Concord Projects says that the gift was more than a strategic donation—it’s an expression of the symbiotic relationship between education and industry.

“We have about 33 staff members who are RRC Polytech grads, including some members of the senior leadership team. We always want to be intentional about the way we recruit the latest talent, including demonstrating appreciation for institutions like RRC Polytech for helping students get the training they need,” said Ploegman.

Concord Projects is invested in student success through the financial support they provide with awards, while also ensuring that as industry evolves, students have access to the latest tools and equipment they will use when they enter the workforce. Every few years, RRC Polytech is able to purchase new equipment and refresh lab spaces thanks to the generous support of donors like Concord Projects.

In addition to supporting RRC Polytech’s content delivery, Concord Projects helps students directly every year through the $2,000 Concord Projects Award, which is awarded to a third-year Construction Management student with volunteer involvement in the community to help offset the cost of tuition.

Derek Kochenash, the Dean of the School of Skilled Trades and Technology, recognizes that students rely on funds like the Concord Projects Civil Engineering Award to focus on their studies and not have to worry about juggling a job between classes.

“We’re very grateful for the gifts we get from partners like Concord Projects; they consistently step up to help us provide the education and training that contribute to RRC Polytech’s reputation in industry,” he said.

The 2023 recipient of the Concord Projects Award, Hayley Lecuyer, says the award definitely relieved some of the financial strain she’d been experiencing as a third-year Construction Management student.

“I felt super honoured when I found out I won and it was a huge confidence booster. With six courses every semester and work placements, it’s hard to fit working part-time into the schedule,” said Lecuyer.

Concord Projects regularly provides support to the community through the Concord Projects Foundation, which exemplifies the values and principles at its core: philanthropy, community and pride of employment. Their vision to enrich the quality of life for all people impacted by their projects is regularly demonstrated through their commitment to helping us provide first-rate education to tomorrow’s workforce.

RRC Polytech is proud to recognize Concord Project’s latest support by naming T2-18B on the second floor of the STTC “The Concord Projects Classroom.”

“We’re excited to establish more recognition at the College through the naming of the classroom; whether it’s our staff who take courses to upskill or students that could one day be part of our team, we’re looking forward to people seeing that mutual recognition of our partnership at the STTC,” said Ploegman.

November 15 is National Philanthropy Day, and two of RRC Polytech’s most prolific supporters are being celebrated for their years of philanthropy in Winnipeg and across Canada.

RRC Polytech, along with the University of Manitoba, are pleased to have nominated Walter and Maria Schroeder for the 2023 AFP Awards in the Outstanding Philanthropist category. The Schroeders received the award at a ceremony this afternoon.

“Walter and Maria Schroeder’s work has truly been transformative, and today RRC Polytech is so proud to celebrate their contributions with our community as Manitoba’s 2023 Outstanding Philanthropists,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. 

“The Schroeder Foundation has awarded hundreds of full post-secondary scholarships to institutions in Winnipeg – including more than 180 to RRC Polytech – which includes tuition, books, and wrap-around supports. The Schroeder Foundation students now also have the opportunity to participate in the Transition to College program, which helps them start their programs with the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed on day one.”

The Schroeder Foundation donates millions of dollars to organizations every year, with a focus on improving healthcare, providing economic education, and empowering youth and Indigenous communities across the country. The Foundation currently invests more than three million dollars annually in Winnipeg alone.

The Schroeders grew up in Winnipeg with a lifelong belief in helping others. In 1976, Walter founded a Canadian-based bond rating agency called Dominion Bond Rating Service, which became one of the world’s premier agencies. After selling their company, the Schroeders focused their energy on philanthropy and The Schroeder Foundation was born.

However, their journey of philanthropy originally began in 1955, when Maria came to Canada as a refugee after escaping across West Germany’s border. As a grade 11 student, Maria told her teacher at Daniel McIntyre High School that she was making the difficult decision to leave school to work and support her family. Her teacher then relayed the story to the school principal, who showed up at Maria’s home one evening and convinced the family to send her back to school. Over the course of the year, he provided financial support which empowered Maria to complete her education.

This story served as inspiration for the Schroeders’ own commitment to giving back. Since 2018, they have directly impacted a total of 194 unique students at the University of Manitoba and RRC Polytech. They have also provided scholarships to 67 students of the Sisler High School CREATE program to attend Vancouver Film School, and provided merit awards and scholarships to students at St. John’s High School and Sisler High School – amounting to more than 700 individual awards per year.

Brittany Smith, RRC Polytech’s 2023 Lieutenant Governor’s Medal recipient and graduate of the Legal Assistant Certificate Program experienced financial hardship and homelessness and described feeling as if her dream was slipping away until she received a lifeline in the form of a full tuition scholarship to attend RRC Polytech from the Schroeder Foundation.

“At the time, I could barely afford to eat so without the generous support of the scholarship I was granted, there was simply no way I would have been able to even think about attending post-secondary. I was so excited and felt so much relief when I was offered an option to work my way out of the tough spot, I was in. It motivated me to keep going and I cannot thank Walter and Maria enough for the impact they’ve made in my life.”  

The Schroeder Foundation provides fully-paid scholarships to RRC Polytech, which includes tuition, books, and wrap-around supports. The Schroeder Foundation students now also have the opportunity to participate in the Transition to College program, which helps them start their programs with the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed on day one.

“The first day, I remember being stressed out and I was even worried about getting there on time, but someone immediately recognized me and my stress went from 100 to zero in seconds,” said Jileen Easter, current Pathway to Business student and recent participant in the Transition to College program. “I didn’t have to worry about getting lost because everything was explained to me. I think if I had started college without the program, I wouldn’t have my student ID or know where I could go for lunch or anything,” she said.

“Schroeder students” begin their post-secondary journeys with the confidence that they have Walter and Maria’s support, along with an entire community cheering them on.

To date, The Schroeder Foundation has donated more than $2 million towards six previous cohorts and helped support more than 180 RRC Polytech students achieve post-secondary success.

RRC Polytech has previously honoured Walter and Maria Schroeder with an Honorary Bachelor of Education degree in October 2022, in recognition of their dedication to removing barriers to education for Manitoba youth.

Loewen apprentices in front of the display wall they created.

An apprentice at Red River College Polytechnic only spends a few weeks in the classroom – the rest of the time is paid, on-the-job training. Recently Loewen Windows and Doors (Loewen) donated a display of premium luxury windows and doors to the Skilled Trades and Technology Centre, these displays are used for in-classroom learning by apprentice students. Five Loewen apprentices spent part of their time in the classroom building the display wall.

“Seeing the product and actually getting to do the finished millwork was really cool,” says Ashely Berard, Apprentice Cabinetmaker. “It was a different take on what I would usually do.”

“Having the model and the wall provided was very helpful, because you learn how to work around the issues that you only read about,” added Josh Johnston, Apprentice Cabinetmaker.

As the leading manufacturer of premium windows and doors in North America, Loewen understands the importance of quality materials and skilled artisans who meticulously craft each made-to-order piece. Their commitment to expert craftspeople has continuously resulted in an award-winning business. Apprenticeship training provides on-the-job skill development at Loewen with levels of technical training at Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech).

“Coming to the College allows you to go through the whole spectrum of jobs and techniques and you can try new things,” said Josh. “It helps to develop new skills and learn the theory compared to just building, so you can adapt your knowledge that you’ve read into actual work you do.”

Ashley and Josh just completed their second level of training and are currently working full-time at Loewen before they return to RRC Polytech to complete their third of four levels this fall.

“Loewen works hard to create a culture where team members succeed,” said Todd LeRoy, Vice President, Manufacturing, Loewen. “We know that apprenticeship students have the know-how to be successful when they get here and we’re ready to help them grow into whatever role they’re hoping to achieve as their careers develop.”

Loewen’s apprentices are offered a top-up program where they can earn 95 percent of their wages while attending RRC Polytech for approved apprenticeship programs.

“When you go back to work [at Loewen], you’re utilizing all the things that you’ve learned in school and you’re like ‘oh, wow, why didn’t I think about doing it this way before?’ and you’re using your skills and you can feel and see your own progression, which is so important,” said Ashley. “Having the school experience give you the standards of what things should be, and it helps you connect your skills and quality with things like time management. School helps put it into perspective.”

Loewen recently pledged $40,000 towards RRC Polytech’s In Front of What’s Ahead campaign over the next five years. Funds will be used towards three key funding priorities including transforming learning and research spaces, amplifying RRC Polytech’s impact and enhancing the student experience.

“Partners like Loewen make such a difference to the College,” said Derek Kochenash, Dean, School of Skilled Trades & Technologies. “They not only provide apprenticeship opportunities, but they employ apprentices through their training and beyond; they have truly invested in the College’s future for all students.”

RRC Polytech currently offers over 35 apprenticeship trades through Apprenticeship Manitoba including three programs that partner with Loewen. Loewen has opportunities for students in almost all business areas, but consistently employs engineering, drafting, and marketing graduates.

“Our partnership with RRC Polytech isn’t just about filling vacancies,” said Carrie Jones, Director, Human Resources, Loewen. “Our partnership means we can invest in our community and support students in their education and in their career. Our province is changing and that means we need to support the future of today’s learners.”

Only through partnerships with companies like Loewen is RRC Polytech able to provide access to training, supports and certification of skilled students to help meet the needs of Manitoba.

Jan den Oudsten standing outside of the building named after him at RRC Polytech. He stands with his wife and son.

It was just four years ago that Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) celebrated one of the largest gifts in our history from an individual donor – that donor was Jan den Oudsten and his wife Maria den Oudsten and the gift was $1.5 Million to support students and research in Manitoba’s heavy vehicle sector, including transit.

Jan den Oudsten passed away on Wednesday, March 29 in the Netherlands, at the age of 92.

Jan den Oudsten was the founder and former president of New Flyer Industries and the inventor of leading-edge transit technology. He spent the latter years of his life supporting the next generation of heavy equipment and vehicle technology students, and he was a true pioneer in his contributions the vehicle research sector.

Through the generosity of the den Oudsten family, RRC Polytech’s Jan den Oudsten Vehicle Technology & Research Centre (VTRC) has been an integral part of milestone events including creating a course for electric buses for Winnipeg Transit and the Canada’s National Defense, as well as partnerships with Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group) to create Certification for Electric Vehicle Technicians.

“The generosity of Jan den Oudsten and his family have truly benefited thousands of students every year – our graduates are equipped with the skills and education necessary to become leaders in their fields because of the training they receive at VTRC,” says Fred Meier, President and CEO.

RRC Polytech’s Vehicle Technology & Energy Centre (VTEC), housed in VTRC, has helped develop the first electric Tundra Buggy and supported the testing on New Flyer Industries Group electric transit bus and coach, including the latest generation of hydrogen fuel cell bus. Many of these developments would only be possible through the philanthropy and support of the den Oudsten’s.

“We send our deepest condolences to Maria den Oudsten, their son Bob den Oudsten and their families. Jan den Oudsten’s innovative spirit, gift of leadership, and generous nature will be always remembered,” added Fred.

Den Oudsten’s contributions to the vehicle research has made significant impact around the world. Jan den Oudsten purchased New Flyer in 1986 and introduced European accessible low-floor technology to North American transit market. He was also involved in pioneering hydrogen fuel cell technology applications and introduced a 60-food articulated diesel-electric hybrid bus.

He was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2021 for his innovations and contributions to the North American transportation market.

To acknowledge Jan den Oudsten’s passing, RRC Polytech will be lowering flags to half-mast on Thursday, April 6, 2023.

Richard Chisel felt a pull to pursue the Environmental Engineering Technology program at RRC Polytech. It wasn’t the prospect of employment or his passion for chemistry – it was his Indigenous culture.

“The whole field gets me right in the heart, being Indigenous, we’re supposed to be land defenders, and yet corporations are polluting the lands and only getting minor fines for doing so much damage,” said Richard. “There should be more responsibility to the damage done.”

His path to RRC Polytech wasn’t linear, but that’s what makes Richard so passionate. Richard suffers from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and is on medication to manage the trauma he experienced at a young age. After run-ins with law enforcement and feeling held back, Richard made a choice to do something different.

“I grew up in the North End [of Winnipeg] and I saw a lot of stuff happen when I was younger,” said Richard. “And when I got older, I started looking into education – I wanted to be able to support myself and realized it was time to get educated.”

Richard started his journey at RRC Polytech with the Pathway program, which he said prepared him to enter the Environmental Engineering Technology program. Pathway programs help to provide the skills and support needed to transition into college programs.

“The Indigenous supports that are available are amazing and they go above and beyond to make sure that you fully understand the content,” said Richard of his favourite part of studying at RRC Polytech.

Richard is currently working on a project for one of his classes where he’s reviewing the Brady Landfill’s plan to have a greater focus on composting.

“I love chemistry, I excelled in chemistry, and I made the decision to purse this field because it made sense – environmental organic chemistry – it just seemed to fit,” said Richard. “After I’m done at RRC Polytech, I think I want to take the joint program called Applied Environmental Sciences.” 

With graduation only being one year away, Richard is getting ready for what’s next.

“I want to help counteract climate change by reducing emissions from waste,” said Richard. His passion coming through as he goes on to explain the damage people are committing. “By educating people to reduce the amount of waste and begin composting, things can be processed in a controlled environment and the gases are captured and used for energy,” Richard shared.

With no shortage of future plans, Richard is incredibly grateful to Akman Construction for a $1,500 scholarship towards his program.

“I would like to thank Akman Construction for selecting me as a recipient of this award. The additional financial support contributed to my learning outcomes by assisting with my medication costs which aided in regulating my sleep schedule and helped me focus on my learning,” said Richard.

Richard is the first recipient of the Akman Construction Environmental Engineering Technology award. The award is given to a student who has a focus on the environment and sustainability. Akman Construction recently pledged $150,000 to RRC Polytech to create the scholarship as well as support for the College’s In Front of What’s Ahead Comprehensive Campaign.

“Akman Construction is proud of our commitment to LEED goals in building construction, and we believe being sustainable is imperative to our company,” said Jared Akman, Director of Operations, Akman Construction. “Richard is the perfect recipient of our first award. He truly embodies the spirit of building a sustainable community. I look forward to working with him one day.”

In 2018, Akman Construction began working on RRC Polytech’s newest building, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, which one of the most innovative buildings in Canada featuring little to no carbon emissions. Another stipulation in this project was the Indigenous Employment Strategy, which ensured that 20 per cent of all workers were to be of Indigenous decent – Akman Construction went beyond that, estimating 45 per cent Indigenous participation, as well as offering training, support, and mentorship for those on site – many of whom are RRC Polytech grads. 

“We are constantly looking for talented people who share our values when it comes to sustainable construction, and the grads that come from RRC Polytech constantly meet the industry needs,” said Akman. “We are excited to be supporting the next generation of students who will shape the future of construction in Manitoba.”

Akman Construction was established in 1912 by the Akman family after Aaron Akman immigrated to Winnipeg from Russia and has been a family business for over 100 years. Akman Construction began by constructing single family homes and has grown to develop residential apartment building and several commercial projects across Manitoba, including RRC Polytech’s Manitou a bi Bii daziigae and Roblin Centre at the Exchange District Campus and the Skilled Trades and Technology Centre at the Notre Dame Campus. Akman Construction has been a proud supporter of RRC Polytech since 2002.