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.

A new dual-credit program at Steinbach Regional Secondary School (SRSS) is giving Grade 12 students an accelerated entry into Manitoba’s healthcare workforce, thanks to a partnership with RRC Polytech. The initiative is designed to support both students and the region’s urgent need for trained healthcare professionals. 

The Health Care Aide (HCA) dual-credit program, delivered in collaboration with RRC Polytech, offers students a direct pathway into postsecondary education and employment. By integrating college-level curriculum into the high school timetable, students can earn both their Grade 12 credits and RRC Polytech certification by June. 

“This partnership represents a major step forward, and I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing what additional opportunities and collaborations may grow from it in the future,” said Sheri Stoupe, Regional Campus Manager for RRC Polytech’s Steinbach Campus. 

“This initiative offers an incredible pathway for local high school students. For some, it will be the beginning of a meaningful and rewarding career in health care. For others, it will serve as a valuable steppingstone into further health-related programs and postsecondary training. No matter the direction each student chooses, this program opens doors that might not have been accessible otherwise.” 

Support from the Bethesda Foundation played a key role in the program’s launch, with the Foundation providing a $1,000 bursary to each participating student, helping to further reduce the cost of the program.  

“It’s also a tremendous win for industry,” continued Stoupe. “The demand for Health Care Aides in Steinbach and the surrounding region continues to grow, and programs like this help strengthen the workforce while supporting students in building real-world skills and confidence.” 

Read more in this article from Steinbach Online. 

Seven Indigenous students enrolled in RRC Polytech’s Pathway to Business, Creative Arts, and Digital Technology programs are now well on their way to pursuing their academic and career goals, thanks to CIBC’s ongoing generosity and commitment to advancing education.  

Through the CIBC Building Pathways to Education Award for Indigenous Students, CIBC is providing critical financial support and demonstrating their commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility (EDIA). The award alleviates financial barriers, empowering recipients to focus on their studies, explore their potential, and fully engage in the RRC Polytech experience. 

“I am extremely grateful to CIBC. This money has helped ease my financial burden and helped me focus more on my studies,” said student Brandon Selkirk. 

CIBC has established bursaries of a minimum of $2,000 each, which assist students with educational expenses and are available to all students enrolled in the program. Students apply by submitting a statement outlining their career goals and explaining how this bursary will impact their educational journey. 

“CIBC is proud to partner with RRC Polytech to help make education more accessible, flexible and inclusive while creating access to opportunities for Indigenous prosperity in Canada,” said Heather Wagner, Senior Vice President, Region Head, Central Canada. “By supporting education awards like the CIBC Building Pathways to Education Award for Indigenous Students, we’re investing in future leaders and helping build stronger, more inclusive communities. Together with partners like RRC Polytech, we’re creating a world where everyone’s ambition can become a reality.” 

The award serves to relieve the financial burden for students, allowing them to concentrate more fully on their studies. 

“I would like to sincerely thank CIBC for awarding me the $3,000 Tuition Bursary. This support has made a real difference in my life as a student. It has eased the stress of my residence fees and helped me adjust to my new living situation without the constant worry of groceries and monthly payments,” said Kaya Barkman. 

The Pathways program offers an entry to admission for Indigenous learners who have faced barriers to accessing or succeeding in post-secondary education. These barriers may include social, economic, or cultural challenges; limited formal education; or geographic isolation that makes attending post-secondary institutions challenging. 

“Because of this bursary, I’ve been able to focus more on my studies and personal growth rather than financial concerns. Your generosity has lightened my load in ways that mean more than words can express, and I’m truly grateful for your support and belief in students like me,” continued Barkman. 

This investment reinforces RRC Polytech’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation by promoting equitable access to post-secondary education and fostering an environment that values inclusion, respect, and success for all learners. 

“The CIBC bursary has helped me greatly with financial stresses. This has allowed me to maintain my focus in school as I’ve been having some car problems recently. Because of the bursary, I’ve been able to tackle those problems, which allows me a reliable and safe way to make it to classes every day,” said Tyler Nykiforuk. 

Through this partnership, CIBC is helping to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce while driving long-term social and economic growth in our communities. The impact of this support will continue to shine through the accomplishments of students who are empowered to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to Manitoba’s evolving industries. 

To explore the full list of RRC Polytech’s awards, scholarships and bursaries, please visit this page.  

Walter and Maria Schroeder are two of the newest Officers of the Order of Canada, as recognized by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada on December 31, 2025. 

The Schroeders, longtime supporters of RRC Polytech, are two of 80 new appointments Her Excellency has recognized, which includes 6 Companions, 15 Officers and 59 Members. 

The Schroeder Foundation is behind RRC Polytech’s largest donation in history: a $15-million gift to launch the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts. 

In partnership with RRC Polytech, the Schroeders founded the Institute to support ongoing opportunities for students at RRC Polytech, and to foster growth and development in Manitoba’s creative arts industry. 

The Schroeder Institute now offers 14 core programs, including Animation and Entertainment Production, and the recently added Information Security postgraduate diploma. 

The Schroeder Foundation also offers fully funded scholarships to hundreds of RRC Polytech students, covering tuition, textbooks, and comprehensive support services. 

In December 2024, the Foundation celebrated a significant milestone: providing a total of $18.2 million in support to RRC Polytech. This achievement was followed by an additional $1.25 million donation, complementing the earlier $15 million gift to establish the Schroeder Institute, enabling even more full-ride scholarships for Winnipeg students. 

Students supported by the Schroeder Foundation can also take part in the Transition to College program, designed to equip them with the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed from the very first day of their studies. 

In recognition of their commitment to breaking down educational barriers for Manitoba youth, Walter and Maria Schroeder received the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Manitoba Outstanding Philanthropist Award in 2023. RRC Polytech also honored them in 2022 with an Honorary Bachelor of Education degree. 

After years of building critical infrastructure across Canada, Amrize knows firsthand how essential the skilled trades are — and how important diversity is within the industry.

“We build roads, we build bridges, and still to this day, there are very few women in this field,” said Tina Larson, Amrize Building Materials, Vice-President Southern Alberta.

Last week, more than 90 young women and female-identifying students from high schools across Winnipeg spent the day at RRC Polytech participating in the Jill of All Trades event. Students participated in hands-on activities and learned skills in trades and technologies, like how to wire a doorbell, build a birdhouse, and virtually weld.

This is Amrize’s third year supporting Jill of All Trades – their support is critical in ensuring RRC Polytech can continue to host these events for the community.

Larson had the opportunity to speak to the students, and for her, supporting an event like this is personal.

“I worked with electricians, mechanics, and grew up on a farm, but there weren’t a lot of girls in those trades. In fact, there was nobody,” she said.

Tina sees a great opportunity for young women to “try on different hats” and discover what they’re capable of.

“There are so many hats you could choose from,” she said. “Pick the one you like and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t wear that hat.”

This marks the third year RRC Polytech has hosted Jill of All Trades. The event is meaningful because it opens the door for young women, female-identifying, and non-binary learners to explore careers in the trades.

Jayne Geisel, Acting Associate Dean, Construction, provided welcoming remarks to kick off the event.

“Seeing students light up when they realize they belong here is exactly why we do this,” she said. “To address this need and close this gap, students have to know very early on that there is a place for them in this industry.”

Students rotated through sessions in:

• Construction (building a birdhouse)
• Transportation (changing a tire and programming EV vehicles)
• Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Technology (circuit board building)
• Welding (virtual welding simulation)
• Robotics (programming a robot)
• Civil Engineering Technology (testing pollution in water and soil, and testing heat and moisture in buildings)
• Construction Electrical (wiring a doorbell)

These workshops provided participants with an opportunity to experience a variety of trades firsthand alongside RRC Polytech faculty, many of whom understand the importance of representation in trades and have plenty of industry experience.

“As women, we’re used to seeing ourselves in so many other fields, and AI can’t take over trades. People need power; they need electricians,” said Sarah Bartlette, instructor of Electrical Trades at RRC Polytech. “It’s an incredibly diverse industry. It doesn’t need to feel big or scary. The girls can pick any avenue they want, because they can.”

For high school student Lyla, the day was a chance to step outside her family’s unintentional pattern and explore a future she actually wants and is interested in pursuing.

“Everyone in my family is a doctor,” she said. “But I’m not doing that. I want to go into mechanics.”

By the end of the day, many students, just like Lyla, were energized and more confident about seeing themselves in a trade

Jill of All Trades allows students to step into spaces they might never have imagined themselves in. The impact of this experience taught them skills they can use for the rest of their lives; it opened doors, built confidence, and helped them picture a future in fields where women have historically been underrepresented.

Jill of All Trades demonstrated the shared commitment of Amrize and RRC Polytech to foster a diverse, inclusive, and future-ready workforce.

For more information about trades and technologies programs at RRC Polytech, please click here.

Brady Zdrill thought his first day back at RRC Polytech for his second year in the paramedicine program would be a typical orientation day, until his instructors gave him a mysterious instruction: make sure your family comes, too. 

In a heartfelt ceremony, Brady was presented with the inaugural “Be Like Fab” award, which was established in memory of a man whose life, though taken far too soon, was defined by kindness, compassion, and devotion to others. 

Fabio Imbrogno died suddenly on July 26^th, 2023, and his family credits the paramedics who were there in his final moments for treating them with extraordinary respect, warmth and dignity, which has had a lasting effect on the family. 

“The day Fabio died so tragically is a day that forever changed the lives of me, my children, and our entire family,” said Fabio’s wife, Natalie Imbrogno. “It was a moment that split our lives into ‘before’ and ‘after,’ leaving a pain we will carry with us always. Yet within that devastating evening, we felt we were surrounded by first responders whose presence brought humanity, dignity, and deep compassion at a time when we needed it most. The paramedics on scene were our superheroes.” 

The role of “superhero” is one Brady knew he wanted to pursue since before he started high school. 

“Since I was really young, I knew I wanted to do a job that would help people,” he said, noting that he and his mom helped care for his grandma when she was quite sick.  “Just knowing that I would get to be there to make someone’s day better, and that every time I’d go to work would be so rewarding. This is a job where you’re helping people, every day.” 

For Natalie and her family, Brady perfectly embodied Fab’s values. 

“Fabio lived his life on the values of respect for all those in his life. He led with kindness and believed that as human beings we all make mistakes, but those mistakes should not define us,” she said. “He poured his entire heart into his family; for him, nothing mattered more than creating a home filled with safety, laughter, and unconditional love. He approached every role in his life – husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend – with total dedication.”  

Knowing that he represents those qualities has been a motivating force as Brady continues his studies. 

“It’s really inspiring to me that I was chosen to receive this award, knowing that I embody all the qualities he did,” he said. “The family talked about how he was helpful and caring – offering a helping hand to anyone in need. Knowing that I’m that person in my class, in my community – that’s really rewarding.” 

Receiving the award has driven Brady to study even harder.

“Knowing that I’m that leader, the person that people look up to, it’s a great feeling. Receiving the award is nice, but knowing that people see me as having the qualities as Fabio is a reward in itself.” 

Valued at $1,000, the “Be Like Fab” Award will be presented annually to a student entering the second year of the Paramedicine – Primary Care Paramedic program, recognizing not just excellence and skill, but also the compassion and humanity Fabio Imbrogno embodied. 

 “This award is a powerful reminder of the impact education, generosity, and community can create, ensuring Fabio’s legacy of lives on through the future paramedics who follow in his footsteps,” said Natalie. “I want to extend a special thank-you to the young students entering this incredibly meaningful and rewarding field of paramedicine. Your courage in choosing this path, your willingness to learn, and your dedication to being there for people on the worst days of their lives is truly life-changing.” 

Her message for all paramedics is one of gratitude.

“You may not yet realize the magnitude of your impact, but families like ours feel it profoundly. The compassion you will bring into the world, and the lives you will touch, will matter more than you can imagine. Your role is not only as lifesavers but as protectors of the living and the grieving. We are forever grateful,” she said.

When Jed Manaloto first learned he’d received the Gary Coleman Award for Inner City Scholars, one feeling stood out: relief. 

“When I stumbled upon the email saying I’d gotten the award, I felt the burden ease right away,” he said. 

The first-year Information Security student had been preparing to apply for student aid when he discovered his education at RRC Polytech would be fully covered, thanks to the generosity of Gary Coleman and the scholarship he established in 2019. 

“This scholarship program is a way of saying thank-you and giving back to the community, because the community has been very kind to me over the years,” Coleman has said. 

The Gary Coleman Award was created to remove financial barriers for students from Winnipeg’s inner-city schools who have demonstrated academic excellence. Its goal is to provide “full ride” support, allowing students in business, technology, and information security programs to focus on their studies and career development without the stress of paying for tuition, supplies, textbooks and other necessary supports. 

“We started small, which has given us the time to fine tune the program in terms of criteria and the selection process,” said Coleman. “While the program stalled during Covid, it is now growing, with the goal of supporting even more students over the next decade and beyond.”

A Pathway to Cyber Security 

Manaloto’s passion for cyber security began in his first year at Sisler High School. 

“I focused on cyber security for all four years in high school, and decided to continue on this pathway,” he said. “With all the work I’d done at Sisler, I was able to get direct entry into the post-grad program at RRC Polytech.” 

Sisler offers Canada’s first Network and Cyber Security Academy, which equips students with technical and soft skills to thrive in the digital economy. While graduates are considered job-ready, Manaloto wanted additional training to strengthen his career prospects. 

“This program stuck out to me because of the history it has, with lots of Sisler cyber security students choosing this path. It felt like an extension of what I was pursuing at Sisler.” 

Overcoming barriers 

Manaloto and his family moved to Winnipeg five years ago after living briefly in London, Ontario, following their immigration from the Philippines. As newcomers, finances were tight. 

“I was all set to apply for a job just to support my education, when I found the award and saw that I was eligible to apply for it.” 

The scholarship is available to graduates of eight inner-city schools in Winnipeg who have been accepted into select RRC Polytech programs, including Applied Accounting, Business Administration, Application Development and Delivery, Data Science and Machine Learning, IT Operations, and Information Security. 

The award and its far-reaching impacts

Past recipients of the Gary Coleman Award include Selina and Semhar Gerezgiher (Business Administration/Applied Accounting), Cedrick Maglaque (Application Development and Delivery), Raven Tiroy (Business Information Technology), and Regina Arroza (Business Administration). 

“Receiving the Gary Coleman Award has been incredibly meaningful. It eased financial stress and allowed me to focus fully on my studies. More importantly, it gave me a strong sense of encouragement,” said Semhar Gerezgiher, who plans to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of Manitoba’s Asper School of Business after completing her program. “Knowing that the College and the donor believe in my potential has boosted my confidence and motivated me to keep striving for excellence in my academic and career goals.”

Semhar’s sister Selina, another recipient, agrees: “Receiving the Gary Coleman Award didn’t just help pay for my post-secondary education, it genuinely helped me discover my career path,” she said. “Before this scholarship, I was someone who tended to play it safe. I probably would have chosen a field like nursing, even if it didn’t align with my passions, and ended up unhappy in the long run. This award gave me the freedom to explore different areas in my studies without worrying about financial pressure. Through that exploration, I discovered a passion for business that I didn’t even realize I had. It shifted my goals too; I’m no longer motivated only by wanting to make my immigrant family proud. I now have a clear vision for my future.”

“Because of the opportunities this scholarship opened up, I was also able to gain meaningful experience through the Students Temporary Employment Program with the Government of Manitoba, where I applied the business knowledge I’ve been building. This award didn’t just support my education, it changed the direction of my life.” – Selina Gerezgiher

“Receiving the Gary Coleman award has impacted me a lot,” echoes Cedrick Maglaque, whose parent was suddenly unable to work, leaving the family unable to provide the necessary financial support. “I then had to start working different jobs in order to help pay for school costs and also help at home with certain bills. Due to that, I was honestly struggling to focus on my studies.

“Receiving this award significantly helped to reduce my financial burden and allowed me to concentrate on my studies more. It has motivated me to keep pushing harder and continue working hard towards my goals. I’m so very thankful to have been considered to receive the award.”

Looking Ahead 

Winning the award has allowed Manaloto to focus on his studies and participate in extracurricular activities, such as “capture the flag” cyber security competitions that sharpen his technical skills. 

“If I didn’t get the award I’d be thinking of job applications right now, but now I can focus on certifications in the field because I have the extra time to study,” he said. 

As for the future, Manaloto is keeping his options open. 

“After I graduate, I’m going to do my best to look for a job in the industry,” he said. “I’m hoping to get my foot in the door and see where it takes me.” 

For more information about the Gary Coleman Award for Inner City Scholars, please click here. 

A longstanding relationship with one of Manitoba’s premier construction enterprises has led to a generous investment in the future of skilled trades. RRC Polytech is celebrating a $40,000 donation from Penn-co Construction Canada, which will directly support scholarships and awards with the School of Skilled Trades & Technology. 

“Penn-co is guided by high standards, which is why we are proud to support RRC Polytech,” said Rick Penner, Vice President Human Resources, Penn-co Construction Canada. “We have many success stories from RRC Polytech grads that go back many decades. Every year there are new people from RRC Polytech beginning their career paths with Penn-co, both in the office and on the jobsite with the trades, Civil Engineering Technology program, and Btech (Bachelor of Technology) Construction Management.” 

Along with hiring RRC Polytech grads, Penn-co also supports the Polytech’s work-integrated learning program – the organization has three Construction Management students working on their summer co-op this year. 

“Penn-co’s support is a powerful example of industry stepping up to invest in the next generation,” said Derek Kochenash, Dean of the School of Skilled Trades & Technology. “Their generosity will have a lasting impact – not just on our students, but on the communities they’ll go on to build.” 

Penn-co’s support helps to remove financial barriers for students pursuing careers in the construction trades. These awards will empower students to focus on their studies, gain hands-on experience, and graduate ready to contribute to the workforce. 

Penn-co’s investment will also boost student supports and programming within the School of Skilled Trades & Technology, allowing the Polytech to enhance programs, equipment, and tooling – empowering students to kickstart their careers after graduating. 

For more information on RRC Polytech’s awards and scholarships, please click here. 

Chloe Jessop’s journey to the trades is a uniquely Gen Z one. 

“I watched a lot of YouTube videos about how to make things, and knew I wanted to do that too,” she said with a laugh. 

On May 26, 2025, Jessop spoke on a panel with fellow Introduction to Trades student Alex Graham, along with Cabinetry and Woodworking student Logan Loewen and Darren Chambers, Vice-President, Star Plumbing and Mechanical, about the future of skilled trades in Manitoba. 

The conversation was moderated by Derek Kochenash, RRC Polytech’s Dean of the School of Skilled Trades & Technologies, and was part of a larger announcement to celebrate Qualico’s recent donation to RRC Polytech: $1.25 million to support skilled trades programming at the College. 

The donation expands capacity in Intro to Trades and provides additional support to the School of Skilled Trades and Technologies, with the creation of 10 annual awards for Construction Trades students – one of the largest available for skilled trades and technologies students, at $5,000 each.  

“This monumental gift addresses key needs not only here at RRC Polytech but will create a ripple effect of positive change for the industry here in Manitoba,” said Fred Meier, President & CEO, RRC Polytech. “Thanks to Qualico, RRC Polytech’s Introduction to Trades program will grow and expand, allowing even more Indigenous learners to build specialized skills and gain direct entry into the RRC Polytech trades program of their choice.”

Qualico’s gift underscored the importance of drawing more young people like Chloe, Alex and Logan to the trades, to support a workforce that’s currently facing a labour shortage. 

“A strong skilled trades workforce is essential to building the homes, infrastructure, and services that our communities rely on,” said David Eggerman, Regional Vice-President, Qualico. 

“By investing in education and training, we’re taking a practical and forward-looking approach to helping bridge the gap between the growing industry demand and shortage of trades professionals. This commitment supports the development of a stronger, more inclusive talent pipeline, creating long-term benefits for students, our communities, and the industry.” 

The event began with a blessing from Grandmother Janice Millar, a grandmother-in-residence at RRC Polytech, as well as remarks from Min Mike Moroz, Minister of Innovation and New Technology, who brought greetings from the province that emphasized the importance of the collaboration. 

Qualico’s donation will also support more work-integrated learning programming for RRC Polytech’s Certificate Trades programs: carpentry, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration and air conditioning, and cabinetry and woodworking.  

“Applied learning is at the heart of what we do at RRC Polytech – it’s what sets us apart as a polytechnic institution,” said Meier. “This gift will increase opportunities and connections between students and industry, while furthering our joint commitment to the values that make our institutions – and communities – so strong.”

For Chloe Jessop, industry support from Qualico is the perfect complement to a college experience she’d previously thought of as “just a dream.”

“In the Intro to Trades program, I have never felt more supported as a student. And I don’t say that to be cliché, it’s very, very true,” she said. “From having the support of Grandmother Janice, and the support of our instructors, it’s been an incredible experience. 

“We’re ending our program on June sixth, and it makes me quite sad that I don’t get to have shop experiences each week – getting to do hands-on projects and bring them home and say ‘look, Mom – I made this!'”

For more information on Qualico’s support of RRC Polytech, please click here. 

After a decade in the music industry, managing some of Canada’s biggest artists like Carly Rae Jepsen and Marianas Trench, Kayley McGrath knew she was ready for a change. 

“I loved the work and gained amazing opportunities through hard work, but I knew there was a rapidly approaching ceiling on that career,” said the second year Business Administration student. “I love helping people and when researching and deciding on what I’d like my future to look like, I knew that Human Resources was an area where I could problem solve and help make a positive workspace for others. I chose the Human Resources Management program at RRC Polytech because of their reputation within the workforce.” 

McGrath was one of more than 700 students to attend RRC Polytech’s largest-ever Directions Business Conference, presented by the Johnston Group, on March 5, 2025 at the RBC Convention Centre. This year’s conference had close to 150 industry members in attendance, ready to network with students and help them jumpstart their careers. 

“The Directions Business Conference is an important employment engagement opportunity; one that gives students the chance to build strong connections with potential employers while they’re still in school, so they have an added advantage once they graduate,” said Fred Meier, RRC Polytech President and CEO, in his opening remarks.  

“Witnessing the relationships between students and industry is one of my favourite parts of working at RRC Polytech, and I know today will be a special day.” 

Throughout the half-day event, students in the Business Administration, Indigenous Education, Continuing Education and Hospitality and Culinary Arts programs had the opportunity to network with the greatest variety of Manitoba businesses of any Directions Business conference to-date – from larger name corporations to entrepreneurs, start-ups, and small-and-medium sized enterprises. 

“My experience was just pure delight, like a tropical salad of sweet tasting fruits!” said second year Business Administration student Latoya Taylor-Johnson. “It was very knowledgeable, and I had the pleasure of speaking with a few businesses that caught my eyes previously.” 

Melodie Richard, Marketing Director at Johnston Group – and Creative Communications graduate and former instructor – was in attendance, providing welcoming remarks to kick off the day. 

“Partnering with RRC Polytech is an obvious choice for Johnston Group – both of our organizations value community, building relationships, and shaping a better future,” she said. “Supporting the Directions Business Conference gave us a front-row seat to witnessing key relationships being formed between students and industry here in Manitoba. Johnston Group is pleased to hire many RRC Polytech grads, because we know they come out of the College with the skills and knowledge to fit in and hit the ground running.” 

Along with Meier and Richard, the conference featured greetings from the Honourable Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training; and keynote speaker Cassandra Carreiro, the founder of Sharecuterie, an Indigenous and woman-owned artisanal charcuterie café and cocktail bar in Winnipeg, who shared her story of shifting from psychiatric nurse to small business owner in the midst of the pandemic – pursuing her passion and leveraging her talent to fill a gap in the market and make her dream a reality. 

“Truly every connection opportunity was beneficial, but I really valued the roundtables.” noted McGrath. “They provided students the opportunity in a smaller group setting to ask questions, relate their studies to their future careers, and create memorable impressions.” 

During the Directions Roundtable Session, presented by Staffmax, representatives from nearly 70 different businesses and organizations hosted students according to their field of interest, inviting them to learn more about the respective organization’s mission, culture and vision. 

“The most valuable part of the day was the interaction with the roundtable,” Taylor-Johnson agreed. “Even though I wish the timing was longer for communicating and being able to speak with more companies. And the best part of the day was the amazingly delicious lunch and fancy desert!” 

The roundtable sessions empowered students to expand their networks, explore roles in various fields, and discover how industry is innovating and solving programs – all while connecting with local organizations that are looking to hire new graduates. 

Students also had the opportunity to boost their professional profiles at the RBC Headshot Lounge, where photographers captured LinkedIn-ready headshots to help take students to the next level. 

“I had a very positive experience at the Directions Conference – I was so pleased with all the relationships RRC Polytech has built, with so many amazing companies in Manitoba,” said McGrath. “I thoroughly enjoyed gaining the opportunity to meet with, hear from, speak with, and create memorable connections with employees, employers, and entrepreneurs that I look up to.” 

Her positive experience in her program inspired an entirely new career path: teaching in her field of study. 

“Something RRC Polytech has fostered in me is my love of working with a group of people to achieve learning new things,” she said. “RRC Polytech has empowered me to see how my experience and educational path partner well together. When I graduate, I want to pursue earning a teaching position, so that I can help students along their educational journey.”