When Qualico announced its partnership with RRC Polytech in May 2025, it affirmed a shared commitment to building accessible pathways into skilled trades. Less than a year later, that commitment is already evolving. 

With continued support from Qualico, the Introduction to Trades program has been redesigned to better meet the needs of industry. Beginning September 1, 2026, the program will transition into Skilled Trades – Foundations, which features increased capacity, strengthened basics, and clearer pathways into future trades education and careers. 

“What excites us most is the scale and momentum of what’s coming next. The program’s formal capacity is almost doubling which means more people will have access to training and career pathways in the trades,” says David Eggerman, Senior Vice-President, Supply Chain, Qualico. 

Skilled Trades – Foundations is a 15-week program designed specifically for First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners. While retaining the hands-on, exploratory nature of the former 20-week Introduction to Trades program, the updated certificate places a stronger emphasis on foundational skills essential for long-term success in the trades, including mathematics, science, and communication. 

“With a shorter timeline, hopefully there won’t be as many stressful school weeks for students and that’ll help them focus,” said Mark Anderson, Navigation Coach for the School of Indigenous Education. Anderson works directly with students to help them access resources at the Polytech – both academic and cultural. 

Learners are introduced to a range of skilled trades through shop experiences, applied learning, and connections with prospective employers. Indigenous knowledge is embedded throughout the curriculum to support learners’ confidence and sense of belonging as they prepare for the next steps in education or employment. 

“A lot of students are really engaged with the cultural activities because they’ve never had the opportunity to learn that way,” said Anderson. “This spring, the students got to make drums with the Knowledge Keeper-in-Residence. They started with scraping the hides, then worked on tanning, and right down to lacing them on the frames. It was a really great takeaway for them – getting to do that is really motivating.” 

 Introduction to Trades previously accepted 32 students across two intakes per year. Now, Skilled Trades – Foundations will welcome up to 60 students across three intakes per year. This growth allows more learners to access training that aligns with updated skilled trades start dates at RRC Polytech and ensures smoother transitions into apprenticeship programs and entry‑level employment. Like Introduction to Trades, Skilled Trades – Foundations will earn graduates direct entry into any RRC Polytech trades program. 

In addition to program expansion, Qualico’s elevated partnership also includes the Qualico Trades for All Award, which provides direct financial support to students pursuing training in the skilled trades. The award helps ease financial pressures and helps recipients focus more fully on their studies and career goals. 

“When I submitted my application for the award, I honestly felt hopeful but unsure if I would actually receive it,” says Chloe Jessop, an Electrical student that graduated from Introduction to Trades. “I knew how much this opportunity could help me continue pursuing a career in the trades, but there were so many deserving applicants. Receiving the award while I was in the middle of my pre-employment program was an incredible feeling. It gave me a lot of confidence in myself and reminded me that the hard work I had been putting into my education and training was being recognized and supported.” 

The evolution of the program to Skilled Trades – Foundations reflects what’s possible when education and industry work together. Through increased capacity, enhanced curriculum, and targeted student support, Qualico’s partnership with RRC Polytech is helping learners build momentum toward meaningful careers. 

“Looking back, we’re most proud of how quickly this partnership moved from vision to real, tangible impact. In just one year, we’ve seen students engaging directly with industry through classroom presentations, site tours, and conversations with our teams and trades we partner with. Hearing directly from students during site tours and events reinforced that early industry exposure really does matter. It’s helping students see a future for themselves in the trades, and that’s exactly why this partnership exists,” says Eggerman. 

Together, we are strengthening communities, supporting Indigenous learners, and helping ensure a vibrant future for the skilled trades in Manitoba and beyond. 

“What I look forward to most in my future career is continuing to learn and grow within the electrical trade while building a stable future for myself. I enjoy the hands-on aspect of the work, problem solving, and seeing the results of what I build. I’m also excited about the opportunity to work alongside experienced tradespeople, continue developing my skills, and eventually become a journeyperson myself. I hope to inspire other young people, especially those entering trades programs, to pursue opportunities they are passionate about,” says Jessop. 

For more information about Skilled Trades – Foundations and to get started on your application, visit the Program Explorer and take the first step toward building a future in the trades.