Indigenous Education

Programs

Launch Your IT Career with Confidence

December 4, 2025

Gain the technical expertise and industry experience to progress into advanced IT programs.

Take a confident first step toward a career in information technology with RRC Polytech’s Pathway to Information Technology Programs. This preparatory program helps you build the foundational knowledge, technical skills and learning strategies you need to succeed in IT and transition smoothly into a diploma program. You’ll explore essential concepts in IT, including software, hardware, networking, cloud services, cybersecurity, and full-stack development, while developing problem-solving, communication and professional skills that employers value. With hands-on projects, applied learning and wrap-around support, you’ll gain the confidence to progress in your studies and career.

Upon completing this pathway, you’ll be prepared to apply for reserved seats in the following progression programs:

  • Application Development and Delivery
  • Cybersecurity
  • Full Stack Web Development
  • IT Operations

These programs equip you with advanced, career-ready skills such as software development, network administration, information security, and cloud management, and include work-integrated learning experiences to build industry connections. Learn from the experiences of past students:

Take the first step toward your IT career — learn more about the Pathway to Information Technology Programs and register for Fall 2026.

Prioritize your well-being: access Indigenous counselling support

November 27, 2025

Connect with Indigenous counsellors for guidance, care, and success.

College life can be exciting and full of new opportunities, but it can also bring challenges that affect your mental health and well-being. Counselling Services at RRC Polytech are here to support you through personal struggles, help you develop strategies to manage stress, and guide you toward a balanced, fulfilling college experience. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your academic success — it helps you stay focused, resilient, and confident as you navigate your studies and life beyond the classroom.

RRC Polytech offers flexible counselling options via phone or video conferencing, making it easier to access support no matter where you are. For students seeking culturally safe guidance, Indigenous counsellors are available to provide care that respects your values, experiences, and community connections. To meet with an Indigenous counsellor, simply complete the Counselling Services registration form and indicate your preference. Learn more and take the first step toward support at rrc.ca/counselling.

Step Into Healthcare with Confidence

November 20, 2025

Prepare for a rewarding future in healthcare.

Build the knowledge, technical skills and confidence you need to transition into RRC Polytech’s health programs and begin a career helping others.

Through Pathway to Health Programs, you’ll strengthen your academic foundation while exploring the many exciting and in-demand careers in health care and medical technology. You’ll practice hands-on skills, develop strong study habits and connect with supportive instructors who are invested in your success.

This program gives you the chance to discover your strengths, gain practical experience and prepare yourself for the rigorous learning ahead. With tailored supports and opportunities to grow your skills, you’ll set yourself up for success in RRC Polytech’s health sciences programs.

After completing this pathway, you’ll be prepared to apply for limited reserved seats in the following programs:

  • Dental Assisting
  • Nursing
  • Paramedicine – Primary Care Paramedic
  • Science Laboratory Technology
  • Veterinary Technology
  • Diagnostic Medical Sonography
  • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Medical Radiologic Technology

Read about these Success Stories in Pathway to Health Programs:

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Take the first step toward your healthcare career — learn more about the Pathway to Health Programs.

Power Your Passion with Introduction to Trades

November 13, 2025

Are you ready to explore a variety of rewarding skilled trades and kickstart your career?

The Introduction to Trades program at RRC Polytech is designed to help Indigenous learners upgrade their knowledge, build specialized skills, and prepare for entry into a trades program of their choice—or start a career right away.

This full-time certificate program emphasizes hands-on, interactive learning in modern shop spaces. You’ll gain practical experience, create projects, and explore a range of technical skills while connecting with experienced instructors, invited speakers, and potential employers. The program also supports your academic growth and career readiness by strengthening skills such as collaboration, note-taking, time management, and professional communication.

Introduction to Trades may also count as credit toward your future trade program, potentially reducing your first-year course load. Prepare to enroll in RRC Polytech programs including:

  • Automotive Technician
  • Carpentry
  • CNC Machinist Technician
  • Collision Repair and Refinishing
  • Electrical
  • Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic
  • Marine and Powersports Technician
  • Plumbing
  • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician
  • Welding

A special thank you to Qualico Developments Ltd. for their generous support of this program, helping provide an incredible learning experience for students.

Read about the impact of the program and student experiences:

Start your journey toward a rewarding skilled trades career today. Check out the Introduction to Trades program explorer page for more information and to register for the next intake in Fall 2026.

Elders, Grandmothers & Knowledge Keepers at RRC Polytech

November 6, 2025

Connect, learn, and grow through Indigenous guidance and cultural support.

Indigenous worldviews are grounded in relationships—with ourselves, each other, the land, and the Creator—and it is through these connections that wisdom, guidance, and life teachings are shared. At RRC Polytech, Elders, Grandmothers, and Knowledge Keepers play a vital role in supporting students and staff, offering cultural teachings, spiritual guidance, and community-based mentorship that strengthen learning, wellness, and connection to Indigenous ways of knowing. From one-on-one appointments to classroom visits and participation in ceremony, their presence enriches the College community and fosters understanding, respect, and growth for everyone.

The Elders-in-Residence, Grandmothers-in-Residence, and Knowledge Keepers-in-Residence come from diverse Indigenous backgrounds and bring decades of experience in leadership, education, and community service. They are available to meet with students and staff across both the Notre Dame and Exchange District campuses, providing guidance, teachings, and cultural support. To book time with an Elder, Grandmother, or Knowledge Keeper, or to learn more about the program, contact the Indigenous Support Centre Coordinator and plan ahead to ensure a meaningful and respectful experience.

Learn more and book a session ›

Build Your Future in Engineering Technology

October 30, 2025

Strengthen your math, science and technical skills while exploring the exciting world of engineering technology.

Prepare for success in the engineering technology field by building the academic foundation and essential skills you need to transition into a diploma program. In this preparatory program, you’ll strengthen your knowledge of math, science and technical concepts while developing effective learning strategies, professional communication and problem-solving skills.

Through hands-on projects and applied learning, you’ll explore civil, electrical, mechanical and power engineering technologies — discovering how each area connects to real-world industries and career opportunities. By the end of the program, you’ll be ready to progress into a diploma program with the confidence, skills and support to thrive.

Graduates of Pathway to Engineering Technology Programs can apply for reserved seats in:

  • Civil Engineering Technology
  • Electrical Engineering Technology
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Power Engineering Technology 4th Class

Read about these Success Stories in Pathway to Engineering Technology Programs:

Take the first step toward your engineering career—learn more about the Pathway to Engineering Technology Programs.

Take Your First Step with Pathway to Business, Creative Communications and Digital Technology Programs

October 23, 2025

Are you ready to take a confident first step toward post-secondary success?

The Pathway to Business, Creative Communications and Digital Technology Programs at RRC Polytech helps Indigenous learners prepare academically, socially, and personally for rewarding careers in business, communications, hospitality, and digital media.

Throughout the program, you’ll strengthen your academic foundation, develop essential technical skills, and practice learning strategies that set you up for success. You’ll also benefit from a supportive community that infuses Indigenous culture into your learning journey and provides wrap-around supports to help you reach your goals.

After completing this pathway, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for reserved seats in the following RRC Polytech programs:

Admission Information

Applicants must submit proof of meeting admission requirements within 15 days of applying, unless otherwise noted. If applying within six weeks of the program start date, documentation is due within five days.

This program is open only to Manitoba residents of Indigenous ancestry (Status, Non-Status, Inuit, or Métis). Applications from those who do not meet these criteria will be cancelled without a refund of the application fee.

For Regular Admission, applicants must provide proof of Grade 12 graduation or enrolment. If applying while enrolled, official final grades confirming successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall entry, or by the deadline in the admission letter. Proof of Indigenous ancestry is also required.

For Mature Student Admission, applicants must be 19 years or older, have been out of high school for at least one year, and not meet the regular admission requirements. Mature applicants must also provide proof of Indigenous ancestry (Status, Non-Status, Inuit, or Métis).

Discover how the program has already helped learners find strength and opportunity:

Take the first step toward your future. Register for the next intake in Fall 2026 — visit the program explorer page for more information.

Academic Liaison & Resource Coaches – Indigenous Academic Support at RRC Polytech

October 16, 2025

Indigenous students at RRC Polytech have access to Academic Liaison and Resource Coaches—your personal guides for academic success.

Whether it’s one-on-one tutoring, group sessions, or coaching, these supports help you develop study skills, goal setting strategies, time management, and other tools to excel in your courses with confidence.

Your Academic Liaison & Resource Coach can help you retain information, improve test-taking skills, manage procrastination, and balance student life with self-care. They also provide guidance on how your coursework connects to your career goals and can connect you with additional tutoring services if needed. Reach out to Jeff Boychuk (jboychuk66@rrc.ca) at Notre Dame Campus or Adam Bacchus (abacchus@rrc.ca) at Exchange District Campus to start building the strategies and skills to succeed at RRC Polytech.

Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award

October 9, 2025

Mínwastánikéwin is an Ininimowin word that means ‘to set it right.’

General RRC Polytech Application Required

The deadline to submit applications for the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award is January 31, 2026.

The Mínwastánikéwin Award honors the resilience, strength, and voices of Indigenous students at RRC Polytech. Supported by the College community through campaigns raising awareness of Indigenous-led initiatives like Orange Shirt Day and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit People Honouring and Awareness Day, this award celebrates reflection, culture, and the ongoing journey of Truth and Reconciliation.

In 2025, Dakota artist Dasia Chatkana’s Orange Shirt design, showing a trail of footprints into a dark forest, pays tribute to children who survived Residential Schools, while Métis artist Shayre Curé’s Red Shirt, featuring a handprint over a woman’s mouth, honors Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit People.

Indigenous full-time students can apply by submitting proof of Indigenous heritage, a General RRC Application, and a one-page essay on what Truth and Reconciliation means to them. The deadline is January 31, 2026, via email to financialaid@rrc.ca. Last year, the award celebrated the voices of Kayla Frobisher and Elizabeth Ford.

For full details, see the Awards, Bursaries, and Scholarships Catalogue.

Navigation Coaches – Your Year-Round Support at RRC Polytech

October 2, 2025

At RRC Polytech, Indigenous students have access to Navigation Coaches — your go-to resource for guidance, support, and campus navigation all year long. Whether you need help understanding College processes, accessing community services, finding tutoring, or connecting with other support team members, Navigation Coaches are here to guide you every step of the way.

Your success isn’t just about academics — your health, wellness, and daily life matter too. Navigation Coaches can help you figure out next steps for everything from childcare to technology resources, ensuring you have the support you need to thrive both on campus and beyond. Let us help you make the most of your time at RRC Polytech.

Meet the Navigation Coaches ➔

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.