They came, they saw, they built some outstanding snow sculptures. 

RRC Polytech’s third Snow Me the Money! winter engagement contest has come to a close, just in time for the Spring thaw. Despite unpredictable temperatures this year, there were 10 teams who enthusiastically responded to take part in the contest.  

Each team was willing to take time out of their busy schedules to have some winter fun, show off their creativity, and enjoy the company of their teammates while working together to beautify the NDC campus, and Campuses across the province to raise climate action awareness. 

 Congratulations to this year’s winners: 

• 1^st place: Sea Five  

• 2^nd place: Cloud Niners 

• 3^rd place: Health Care Aides Selkirk – Team Busy 

Snow Me the Money! invites our community to come together and have some fun during Winnipeg’s chilly winter season. While the prize is an enticing incentive, the true goal of the contest is to connect with our classmates, co-workers, colleagues, friends and family in a fun activity that boosts morale and mental health. 

But it’s much more than a lighthearted romp in the snow – Snow Me the Money! highlights the harsh realities of climate change and encourages us all to fight for a future where snowy, fun-filled winters are the norm for generations to come. 

At RRC Polytech, we strive to ingrain sustainability in everything we do. There are several College initiatives that are aimed at tackling climate change, such as: 

• Our commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), including Goal 13: Climate Action, through the signing of the SDG Accord. 

• Our efforts to create sustainable campuses – demonstrated by the award-winning Manitou a Bi bii daziigae, a building designed to near net zero efficiency. 

• Research Partnerships & Innovation’s ongoing partnerships with industry to create clean energy solutions for the real world – such as the all-electric bus, the EV Tundra Buggy, and conducting air tightness tests to provide insights into cost-effective measures for reducing energy usage at buildings throughout the province. 

• Our recently released Sustainability Strategy, a comprehensive plan that guides us towards a more sustainable future for RRC Polytech and our broader community. 

The driving force behind Snow Me the Money! is Maria den Oudsten, who has been organizing similar competitions through her Sweet Sorrow Snowman Foundation for years. 

Maria den Oudsten, along with her late husband Jan, presented one of the largest gifts from an individual donor in RRC Polytech’s history – 1.5 million dollars to support students and researchers in Manitoba’s heavy vehicle sector.  

We want to thank Maria and her family for their ongoing support of RRC Polytech and for donating the cash prizes, and for inspiring us all to build a better tomorrow. 

Thank you to all who participated! 

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.

Red River Co-op presents cheque for first installation of $150,000 donation

At RRC Polytech, culinary education extends beyond recipes—it builds connections to heritage, self-confidence, and economic reconciliation. Thanks to a $150,000 donation from Red River Co-op, the College’s Culinary Skills (Indigenous) program is creating more avenues for students to develop essential skills, explore traditional ingredients and techniques, and engage in impactful culinary research.

“Our contribution to RRC Polytech is rooted in Red River Co-op’s commitment to fostering local talent and supporting economic growth within the communities we serve,” said Craig Gilpin, CEO of Red River Co-op. “We recognize that Indigenous communities may face systemic barriers to education and employment, and we believe it’s important to help address these inequities by creating meaningful opportunities today. By supporting Indigenous students in culinary training and research, we hope to see graduates bring their skills and knowledge to their communities, drive local innovation, and inspire a more inclusive and culturally enriched culinary industry.”

The program’s class size has grown to 15 students, increasing demand for resources. Red River Co-op’s donation will help meet these needs, said Tracy Brant, Associate Dean, School of Indigenous Education at RRC Polytech. “It’s about ensuring every student has access to tools, ingredients, and experiences that connect them to cultural roots while equipping them for successful futures in culinary arts.”

Culinary Instructor Chef Patrick Anderson sees this expansion as a chance to teach more students about the origins and traditions of Indigenous food. With the donation, the College can support the students in purchasing costly ingredients like game meats or equipment like dehydrators and smokers, so students can prepare traditional foods like pemmican and jerky. “This isn’t just about recipes,” he said. “It’s about grounding students in their cultural roots and the history of food on the plains.”

Beyond the kitchen, Red River Co-op’s support reduces financial barriers for students by covering essentials like chef coats, knife kits, laptops, and even bus passes—critical items often not funded by community grants.

That’s encouraging news to Keegan Thomas, a first-year student from Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation. He said the donation will directly benefit he and his peers. “Having funds available to help purchase equipment we need makes a huge difference. Right now, we’re often sharing things like scales, which can slow us down. It could also help cover costs for bus passes, which makes getting to class easier.”

Keegan, who initially considered a career in lab research, looks forward to the culinary research opportunities made possible by Red River Co-op’s support. The gift will fund bursaries that enable him and other students to participate in culinary research projects hosted by RRC Polytech’s Prairie Research Kitchen. These projects allow students to explore Indigenous ingredients, scale recipes, and address issues like food waste.

“I think every cook is a bit of a research scientist, fine-tuning recipes as they go,” said Anderson. “The Prairie Research Kitchen lets us perfect recipes down to the molecule, and this donation will allow us to explore unique, captivating Indigenous ingredients, bringing students even closer to their culinary heritage.”

Mavis McRae, Director of the Prairie Research Kitchen, highlights the broader impact: “We’re encouraging Indigenous students to use their culinary skills to create new food products. By learning to preserve and utilize local resources, they gain the skills to create sustainable, self-driven food solutions that honour their heritage, while contributing to food security and economic sovereignty within their communities. These projects are part of the College’s larger commitment to economic reconciliation and resilience.”

The ultimate value of Red River Co-op’s generosity is the confidence it instills through the opportunities it creates to nourish others, says Anderson.  “When students see their dishes enjoyed by people at events where they get to share their story, it reinforces that their skills are valuable and their heritage matters. It builds confidence and reminds them that they’re on the right path.”

Do you want to build a snow man? Of course you do! Manitoba is a winter playground that we all love to enjoy and at this time of year we’ve got lots of snow to go around! In “Manisnowba” we show our joy of spending time outdoors in winter proudly. That sentiment is especially clear on RRC Polytech’s campuses when the Snow Me the Money! contest is underway. 

For the third year in a row, RRC Polytech students, staff, and faculty are challenged to create epic snow sculptures for the chance to win one of three cash prizes valued at $1000, $500 and $250. Between March 3-6 groups of classmates, colleagues or co-workers will gather to build unique snow creations on campuses across the province.  

Register a team to build your take on a classic snowperson or get creative and build something new! In past years, groups have created snow cars and semis, snow bears, snow construction workers, snow students, snow drums, and more.  

The contest is sponsored by Maria den Oudsten, a generous member of our donor community who has a passion for snow and has been organizing similar competitions through her Sweet Sorrow Snowman Foundation for years. Her main goal with these competitions is to raise awareness about global warming and to encourage climate action around the world. 

Snow Me the Money! reminds us of all the joys we have in our winter climate, and the importance of protecting it all while getting us together for some fun. 

How the contest works 

Register a team and help create a welcoming “snow village” across our campuses! 

Groups at Notre Dame Campus (NDC) are encouraged to build their sculptures along Route 90 in front of the Jan den Oudsten Vehicle Technology and Research Centre (VTRC) and near the main entrance off Notre Dame Avenue.  

Teams from the Exchange District Campus (EDC) are welcome to come to NDC to build their masterpieces where space and snow are more accessible. Teams from Stevenson and our regional campuses can take part at designated locations on their campuses. 

1. Assemble your team, gather each team member’s email address, and decide on a team name. Then have your team captain sign up your team through the registration form online! Teams can consist of staff, students, and faculty. Family members are also welcome to participate. There is no limit on the number of members per team. Please note that teams must be signed up to be eligible to win prizes. Registration cut off is March 3, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. 

2. Build your snow sculpture between March 3-6, 2025. 

3. Snap a photo of your snow sculpture and send it to Lisa Moore at limoore@rrc.ca before the contest closes at 12:00 p.m. on March 6, 2025. Submissions will be entered to win one of three cash prizes valued at $1000, $500 and $250. Additional prizes may include small amount gift cards and various small tokens of participation. 

4. Maria den Oudsten will be our judge and will select the three cash prize winners. 

5. Attend the celebration wrap up event on March 7, 2025, at NDC to find out if you’ve won some cash! Pizza, cookies, and refreshments will be provided. Those at other campuses who are unable to attend the celebration event will be contacted if they are chosen as a winner. Prize money for the top three snow creations will be awarded to the captain on behalf of the team.  

Contest rules and regulations: 

1. Participants must not interfere with the building of competing sculptures or deface, devalue, or destroy them. 

2. Sculptures will not be monitored, and contest organizers are not responsible for any random acts of vandalism. 

3. No power tools can be used in the construction of your sculptures. 

4. If props are used in any snow sculptures, they must be cleaned up by the end of the day on March 7, 2025. 

5. Participants who fail to comply with RRC Polytech’s safety guidelines and our Respectful College and legal policies as outlined at RRC.ca may be removed from the contest. 

6. The skill-testing question of (10 × 4) – (15 ÷ 3) =? provided on the entry form must be correctly answered to be eligible for the randomly drawn prizes. The odds of winning the grand prizes or raffle depend on the number of entrants. 

7. The contest is free of charge, and no purchase is necessary to register. 

By participating in this contest, participants agree:  

• (a) to be bound by these Contest rules and the decisions of RRC Polytech and the Sponsor, whose decisions are final;  

• (b) to the use of the participant’s, likeness, voice, image, recording, video footage, contest entry submission and statements in connection with this contest and the promotion thereof;  

• (c) that if selected as the winner, you give RRC Polytech the right to publish or broadcast your name, likeness, voice, image, recording, video footage or statements for editorial, promotional, advertising and publicity purposes, without compensation other than the value of the prize offered.  

• (d) to release and indemnify and hold harmless RRC Polytech, the sponsor, and all their respective officers, directors, employees, owners, agents, contractors, representatives, successors and assigns from any liability in connection with or arising out of this contest. 

Now, get ready to bundle up, head outside, and enjoy the snow and team camaraderie as you create the best snow sculptures yet!  

Captains, please register your teams HERE 

Lenovo’s generous donation of technology is providing 43 students with the tools they need to excel in two of Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech)’s Pathway programs, setting them up for success as they begin their second term.

As a global leader in technology, Lenovo knows access to technology is crucial for any student entering a post-secondary program. This gift, in the form of Lenovo Thinkpad X13 Gen 4 laptops, supports 43 students in two of RRC Polytech’s Pathway programs. This allows them to complete their programs with the latest systems being used in their fields today and eliminates any worries students may have about not having a laptop or not having access to the latest software. The laptops were given to students at the beginning of the Fall 2024 term, and they will be able to keep them even after their programs come to an end this spring.

“The financial cost of accessing technology like laptops can pose a barrier and make it difficult for some students entering a post-secondary program,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Lenovo is eliminating that barrier by ensuring students have their own technology they can use in and out of the classroom. This gift is already boosting each student’s confidence in their abilities, enabling them to pursue their chosen paths with the assurance that they are prepared to excel in both their future education and the workplace after graduation.”

The College’s Pathways are exploratory and preparatory programs that provide Indigenous Manitobans with the skills and supports required to move into selected RRC programs – ultimately helping aspiring students successfully transition from community to classroom to career with confidence.

Part of this learning involves integrating Indigenous perspectives and encouraging a new way of thinking about the disciplines they are learning – as was demonstrated today by the Pathway to Engineering students who shared how the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing can give them a more sustainable approach to the engineering industry. Warren Beleyowski, Account Executive, Lenovo, joined the students along with faculty in the Indigenous Student Support Centre for the demonstration.

A key element of the two programs – Pathway to Information Technology (supported by RBC Future Launch) and Pathway to Engineering Technology – is computer usage. Cindy Hacking is an instructor in the Pathway to Engineering program and was delighted to hear of the support her students were receiving.

“We are deeply grateful to Lenovo for their generous donation to our students. This gift leveled the playing field, ensuring every student had the tools they needed to succeed,” said Cindy. “For the students who already owned laptops, it eased their burden by allowing them to keep a device at home. This act of kindness empowered our students to focus on learning from day one and created an environment of equality and opportunity. Lenovo has made such a meaningful difference in our students’ education.”

Students like Kayleen Balfour rely on technology to succeed in the programs – though in-person labs are a critical component of their studies, so are digital systems and online assignments and reading materials.

“Having this laptop has been a blessing. It really helps me separate school from my personal things, letting me better concentrate on my studies without distractions,” said Kayleen, a student in the Pathway to Engineering program. “I know the laptops are also making a big difference for other students who didn’t have access to a computer at the beginning of the course too.”

Kayleen has worked with several construction companies since graduating high school and after the pathway program plans to take the Civil Engineering Technologist program to specialize in project management or architecture. She says she is glad she is taking the pathway program to transition back into being in school after several years of being in the workforce – something made easier by receiving the Lenovo laptop at the beginning of the program.

“Lenovo is proud to help support the future leaders of tomorrow,” said Beleyowski. “By providing students with the technology they need to complete their programs, we strive to bridge access gaps and help them on their path to success.”

This is the second time that Lenovo has provided laptops to students. In 2023 another cohort of Pathway to Information Technology students received laptops for their studies.

Entering a new chapter and starting a post-secondary program can be scary and exciting all at once but for some students, financial barriers can make this transition more difficult. Walter and Maria Schroeder and their Schroeder Foundation are helping to eliminate that barrier for some students, so they don’t have to worry about finances as they begin their post-secondary education journeys. Instead, allowing them to focus on what is most important when entering post-secondary education, their learning.

The Schroeder Foundation’s most recent gift of $1.25 million comes on the heels of a $15 million donation, the largest ever received by RRC Polytech, announced just three months prior – now bringing the Schroeder Foundation’s total contribution to RRC Polytech to $18.2 million. Walter and Maria, born Winnipeggers, have a place in their hearts for Manitoba students. Their commitment is changing the lives of their “Schroeder Students” who receive their scholarships.

“Walter and Maria are making a tremendous impact for students,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “This incredible donation is yet another example of how the Schroeders are easing the way for students in their post-secondary education journeys. The lives of more than 200 students have already been changed thanks to their generosity and more will be changed in the years ahead. They are setting an inspiring example of the impact that philanthropy can have –whether it’s investing in state-of-the-art spaces and programs or eliminating financial barriers to higher learning.”

The existing Schroeder Scholarship fund was established in 2018 to help eliminate financial barriers to education for students. To date, the Schroeder Scholarship fund has supported 213 students from Winnipeg high schools, and this most recent gift will continue to support even more students over the next five years.

“It’s important to us to support students who might need financial support to complete their education,” said Walter Schroeder. “We know that not everyone can afford to attend post-secondary education, but we don’t believe that should be a barrier, so we created and continue to fund Schroeder Scholarships to give students at RRC Polytech the opportunity to get ahead in a career path of their choice without having to think about how they are going to be able to afford it.”

Veronica Ade is a Schroder Student in her second year of the Business Administration program – a path that she hopes will help her open a storefront for her hair braiding business after graduation. She’s been braiding hair since she moved to Canada as a refugee in 2018 and runs the business out of her home but dreams of having her own store and employees.

“When I found out about the scholarship I couldn’t believe it – I’m not sure I ever would have been able to go to school without it,” says Veronica. “I couldn’t imagine having to pay school fees while also paying rent. I want to thank the Schroeder Foundation for the opportunity, I really don’t know how to thank them enough. I hope they can continue supporting more students like me.”

Walter and Maria Schroeder were awarded in 2023 with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Manitoba Outstanding Philanthropist Award, and with their continued support of students pursuing higher education, it is not hard to see why. As the largest donor of full-ride scholarships at RRC Polytech the Schroeders are proving their steadfast dedication to removing barriers to education for Manitoba youth.

The Schroeder Scholarship fund covers the full tuition costs of nearly all programs at RRC Polytech for the recipients, as well as textbooks and access to wraparound supports like the transition to college program offered by the college.

Charles Panggat is a Schroeder Scholarship recipient and graduated from the Culinary Arts and Hospitality program in 2023. Since graduating Charles has worked in various kitchen environments – now working as a sous chef at a local Filipino restaurant where he is able to take his classic culinary training and apply it to foods from his own culture.

“Getting the scholarship really helped me focus on actually going to school and doing the best I could without having to worry about my financial situation,” said Charles. “I was able to enter my career right away without debt. Getting this support from the Schroeder Foundation really put my mind at ease and that was the biggest thing.”

He says the supports available to him as a Schroeder Student were a huge help as he adjusted to college life – especially getting started in a program shortly after the pandemic. Since graduating Charles now returns to support the summer orientation for other Schroeder Students, helping them understand what the college experience is like and answering any questions they might have.

The Schroeder Foundation’s donations are in support RRC Polytech’s comprehensive campaign In Front of What’s Ahead, the College’s largest fundraising campaign ever with the aim of transforming learning and research spaces, amplifying RRC Polytech’s impact, and enhancing the student experience.  

Walter and Maria Schroeder are two incredibly strong members of a community that supports students at RRC Polytech. They had previously donated $2 million towards the Schroeder Scholarships and this $1.25 million top-up to the fund will continue to impact even more students in the coming years – helping them reach for their dream careers just like Veronica and Charles.

As 2024 draws to a close, we want to take this opportunity to THANK YOU for your wonderful support of RRC Polytech through our In Front of What’s Ahead comprehensive campaign – the largest fundraising campaign in the College’s history.

In November 2021, we launched this campaign to fuel our five-year strategic plan with the goals of enhancing student life, transforming our spaces, and amplifying our impact.

Thanks to supporters like you, our In Front of What’s Ahead comprehensive campaign has now raised $87,876,615 and is poised to be a historic success that shapes the lives of our students, and the future of our province, for the better.

Through your investment and generosity, these funds are directly impacting thousands of RRC Polytech learners and enabling the College to raise the bar on the exceptional education it delivers every day. Since launching our campaign, we’ve been the grateful recipient of many gifts worth celebrating. Here are just a few highlights:

• With a transformational gift of $15 million from Walter and Maria Schroeder, RRC Polytech’s new Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts launched this past September. The Schroeder Institute paves the way for continued growth and opportunity in the creative arts for RRC Polytech, its students, and the province of Manitoba.

• Last summer, the Price Family Foundation provided a leadership gift of $10 million to spearhead the Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics, which will allow RRC Polytech to bridge critical skills and labour gaps in the manufacturing sector.

• As a first-time donor to the RRC Polytech, The Canerector Foundation is making a big impact for skilled trades in Manitoba through their generous $500,000 gift to the College. This donation supports the creation of the Canerector Foundation Scholarship in Skilled Trades and funds the Girls Exploring Trades and Technology (GETT) Camp over the next five years.

• Johnston Group was inspired to invest $250,000 in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, the College’s downtown hub for technology, collaboration and community. Their donation goes towards the programs and spaces that foster the next generation of innovators and not only supports RRC Polytech but is a direct investment in downtown Winnipeg and the community the College is proud to continue building there.

We are humbled and inspired by our supporters — a broad range of individuals, businesses (large and small), foundations, staff and alumni. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students. To learn more about our In Front of What’s Ahead comprehensive campaign, please go to the Donor Community section of RRC Polytech’s website.

Wishing you a warm and wonderful holiday season.

With gratitude,

David Petis
Executive Director, Advancement
RRC Polytech

“Your generosity and support have given me the opportunity to continue my education and pursue my dreams, and I cannot thank you enough.”

–  Ning, Manufacturing CAD Student

“I want to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support. Your contribution has made an impact on my academic journey, allowing me to pursue my passions and excel in my studies.”

– Benjamin, Business Information Technology Student

The Flynn Group of Companies has made a transformative investment in future trades professionals through a $200,000 donation to RRC Polytech’s School of Skilled Trades and Technology. Flynn’s first major gift to the College, the donation will support bursaries and updated learning spaces to provide students with a closer connection to the industry as they journey from classroom to career.

“For Flynn, this donation is a way of honouring our roots while investing in the future of skilled trades in Manitoba,” says Dave Sterling, Flynn’s Regional Operations Manager.  “Though we’ve grown into a multinational company, we’ve always remembered where we started. Giving back to the community that supported us and fostering the talent that will shape our industry and economy is at the core of our mission.”

As a leading North American building envelope contractor, Flynn operates over 35 branches in Canada and the U.S., shaping skylines and communities. The company’s commitment to RRC Polytech goes beyond financial support: Flynn also serves on an industry advisory committee, ensuring curriculum relevance.

“Flynn’s generous donation will significantly impact students and programs across the School of Skilled Trades and Technology,” says Derek Kochenash, Dean of the School.

 “The funds will support equipment, infrastructure, and programming in key trades like roofing, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical – fields that align closely with Flynn’s needs. Partnerships like these are the ‘secret sauce’ of RRC Polytech, enabling us to provide modern, applied learning experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges. With Flynn’s support, we can continue to produce the skilled workforce that not only drives their success but also strengthens our entire community.”

Flynn’s connection to RRC Polytech isn’t just institutional – it’s personal. Over 80% of Flynn’s workforce comprises RRC alumni, including new President and CEO Dan Sims. A 2008 RRC grad who began his Flynn journey as a drafting technician, Sims credits the College with laying the foundation for his career. “RRC gave me the skills, confidence, and problem-solving mindset to excel in this industry,” says Sims. “Now, as part of Flynn’s leadership, I’m thrilled to give back to the place that started it all.”

Flynn’s donation funds a redesigned classroom in RRC Polytech’s A Building, transforming it into a versatile space for lectures and hands-on activities. Accommodating 40 students, the room will include flexible seating and whiteboards for collaborative learning.

Tammy Harper, who oversees Civil Engineering and Construction programs at RRC Polytech, sees this classroom upgrade as a powerful message to students. “It tells them that their chosen profession is valued and respected by leaders in the industry.”

This investment also includes bursaries to ease financial pressure. “We want students focused on their education, not on how they’ll pay for it,” Sterling explains. “Trades are essential, in demand, and we’re committed to seeing RRC graduates enter the workforce ready to make an immediate impact.”

Flynn’s commitment to RRC Polytech also includes guest lectures and workshops led by Flynn professionals. These sessions will cover key industry topics like quality control in manufacturing and sustainable building practices, bridging theory and practical application to give students a well-rounded, industry-ready education.

“For us, it’s about more than just funding,” adds Sterling. “By bringing our experts into the classroom, we’re sharing knowledge that encourages continuous learning and excellence—values we hope resonate with these students long after they graduate. Skilled trades are the backbone of our economy, and we want students to feel the pride and purpose in that.”

On October 11, thanks to a generous sponsorship from IG Wealth Management, Indigenous high school students had the opportunity to participate in RRC Polytech’s ACE IT Camp at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, where they learned how they could apply an education in information technology into future careers.

“The students loved the hands-on activities and the chance to be on campus. It was very valuable for them to hear from current students and staff involved in the program – I think it opened their minds to the variety of IT options across all fields of work and the experience showed them the versatility that a career in IT provides,” said Hailey Skrumeda, teacher, Southeast Collegiate.

Read the full story on the Indigenous Education blog.