Do you love cooking and want to prepare for success in the fast-paced food service industry?

The Culinary Skills (Indigenous) program at RRC Polytech is designed to help Indigenous learners develop the knowledge, practical skills, and experience needed to thrive in a variety of food service positions.

This full-time certificate program combines classroom learning, hands-on labs, and work experience to build fundamental culinary techniques, in-depth food knowledge, and introductory business skills. You’ll also gain experience, industry connections, and confidence through a paid co-op work placement. As part of your polytechnic education, you’ll receive industry-relevant certifications and training in food handling, fire safety, first aid, and WHMIS, giving you a strong foundation for your career.

The program incorporates Indigenous content throughout the curriculum and offers pre-employment supports to ensure your success. A special thank you goes to Red River Co-operative Ltd. for their generous support of this program, helping make these opportunities possible for students.

Admission Information

Applicants can apply through Regular Admission or Mature Student Admission pathways.

For Regular Admission, applicants must submit proof of Grade 12 graduation or current enrolment. If applying while enrolled, final grades confirming successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall entry or by the deadline listed in your admission letter. Applicants who need to complete an English Language Assessment should not submit transcripts until requested.

For Mature Student Admission, applicants must be at least 19 years old, have been out of high school for at least one year, and not meet regular admission requirements. Mature applicants must still meet the program’s English Language Requirements.

Read about students’ experiences in the program:

• Culinary Connections: Empowering Youth Through Food, Family and Future Pathways
• Prairie Research Kitchen Partnership: Addressing Food Security for Indigenous Communities Across Manitoba
• Culinary Connections: Empowering Youth Through Food, Family and Future Pathways

Ready to turn your passion for food into a career? Check out the program explorer page for more information and to register for the next intake Fall 2026.