Celebrate Indigenous Creativity at the Indigenous Makers Market

A correction has been made to this blog post. We sincerely apologize to Pitâw Mīno Muskîkî for incorrectly listing them as participating in this event. We regret any inconvenience this error may have caused.

RRC Polytech is proud to host an Indigenous Makers Market on Thursday, December 4, from 10am to 3pm in the Library Hallway at the Notre Dame Campus. This one-day market will bring together handmade works, stories, and community — guided by the vision and leadership of The Ode’imin Collective.

• Thursday, December 4 • 10am – 3pm
• Library Hallway, Mall Level, Notre Dame Campus

We invite students, staff, and community members to stop by the market, meet the makers, and support Indigenous artists. Every purchase directly contributes to sustaining Indigenous creativity, entrepreneurship, and youth mentorship.

For questions, contact Sara McIvor-Prouty at smcivor@rrc.ca.

About The Ode’imin Collective

The Ode’imin Collective Holiday Market is gearing up to brighten the season with a warm, community-focused celebration of Indigenous creativity. This festive market brings together a wide range of handmade goods crafted by talented Indigenous artisans, offering everything from beautiful gifts to meaningful pieces that reflect culture, skill, and story.

More than just a place to shop, the market highlights the incredible talent within the community and creates opportunities to uplift local makers. Visitors can connect with artists, learn about their work, and take home something truly unique. It’s a chance to support Indigenous creators, celebrate their contributions, and share in the spirit of the season.

Electrical Alum Alfred Thompson returns to teach program he took in Fisher River Cree Nation

Alfred Thompson walked into the classroom this past spring for the first time in 11 years – and this time, rather than a student, he was the instructor.

In 2014, Thompson took the Electrical program at the RRC Polytech campus in Fisher River Cree Nation. His interest in the industry grew from the problem solving and independence he gained while working hands-on and the satisfaction of seeing results firsthand. Today, he’s in Peguis First Nation, teaching 14 students in the same five-month Electrical program being offered in community from April – November 2025 with extra time to incorporate student success strategies, including Elder support and Teachings.

“[Teaching is] pretty good – I’m myself around the students now. That first day, though, I was practicing before, and I was like, ‘oh man, I’m really gonna just go talk like this in front of other people.’ I was so nervous,” said Thompson.

Read the full story on the MarComm blog.

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.

Become a leader in the field of environmental protection 

RRC Polytech is introducing the new Environmental Studies and Land Relations diploma program – a scientific, land-based program that combines environmental science, fieldwork, and Indigenous knowledge in meaningful, practical ways. This program is designed for learners who want to work directly with the land and support communities. Classroom learning blends with land-based experiences, hands-on research, and Work-Integrated Learning opportunities across Manitoba. 

Throughout the program, students gain essential technical abilities in laboratory work, field sampling, safety practices, and wilderness preparedness across seasons. Courses connect environmental testing with Indigenous knowledge, led in partnership with community Knowledge Keepers and industry advisors. Students develop skills in data collection, environmental assessment, and monitoring of land, water, soil, and biodiversity, which will prepare them to support sustainable resource management with cultural respect. Using a Two-Eyed Seeing approach, students will learn to evaluate environmental impacts, work with community frameworks, and consider reconciliation and sovereignty in environmental planning and management. 

The program emphasizes communication and career readiness. Students build practical skills in writing, speaking, digital fluency, and job preparation, including resumes, interviews, and workplace collaboration. These skills support success in the environmental sector and help students navigate evolving roles in conservation, consulting, and community-based research.

Students participate in a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunity, where they will gain real-world experience with community or industry partners. Whether choosing a paid co-op placement or collaborating on a full-term community or industry research project, students will apply their skills in environmental monitoring, conservation, and land stewardship while developing professionalism, collaboration, and confidence in their chosen field. 

Graduates leave with the ability to build relationships with communities, analyze complex environmental issues, collaborate in research, prepare policy recommendations, and support decision-making processes that honour Indigenous rights and land connections. With a strong foundation in science, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, and applied fieldwork, the Environmental Studies and Land Relations diploma program equips students to become knowledgeable and ethical environmental practitioners committed to stewardship, sustainability, and reconciliation. 

Courses at-a-glance 

Employment potential 

Graduates of the program will be prepared for careers in: 

• Environmental and resource management for Indigenous communities 

• Environmental education and land-based learning  

• Advocacy and policy work in environmental justice 

• Nonprofit organizations focused on Indigenous rights and environmental protection 

• Government agencies involved in land management, conservation, and sustainable development 

• Academic and research institutions 

Registration 

Applications for Fall 2026 will open in February 2026 when the Program Explorer and Catalogue has been updated. Subscribe to this blog to get automatic updates right to your inbox! Scroll the list and select “Indigenous Education.”

For more information on the application process and admission requirements, contact the Indigenous Academic Advisor at indigenous.advisor@rrc.ca.  

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:

• Qualico’s Groundbreaking Donation Adds to Students’ Incredible Experience in Skilled Trades Education
• Skilled Trades Training Extended to Communities in Lake Manitoba and Sagkeeng First Nations

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.

Each year on November 8, communities across Canada gather for ceremonies and vigils to honour the contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous veterans. These events offer a moment to reflect on the long-overlooked experiences of Indigenous peoples in Canada’s military history.

During wartime, Indigenous soldiers served with courage and distinction. Yet, when they returned home, many faced systemic discrimination. Reserve lands were taken by the government — some later granted to non-Indigenous veterans as farmland — while Indigenous veterans were frequently denied the same benefits and support programs offered to others. In some cases, they were pressured to “enfranchise,” a policy that required them to give up their Indian Status and cultural identity in exchange for Canadian citizenship and its associated rights.

It wasn’t until 1994, when Indigenous veterans and their families began advocating for recognition, that these injustices began to gain wider attention. Their efforts sparked a national conversation and helped pave the way for the commemorations we see today.

Now, Indigenous service members are acknowledged and celebrated at all levels for their vital role in shaping Canada’s military legacy. November 8 is not only a day of remembrance — it’s a call to honour truth, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.

To recognize, acknowledge, respect and remember what Indigenous veterans did for our country, we are gifting staff & students commemorative pins. 

Pins can be picked up from the Notre Dame Campus Indigenous Student Support Center (F205).

Stop by 12:00pm-2:00pm to collect your pin.

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 ›

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:

• His Indigenous Culture Called Him to Be a Land Defender – RRC Polytech and Akman Construction Are Helping Him Get There
• RRC Polytech Pathway Students Set for Success Thanks to Free Laptops from Lenovo

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

Pathway Programs for Indigenous Learners

Are you an Indigenous learner interested in a career in business, technology, communications, or engineering but not sure where to begin? RRC Polytech’s Pathway Programs are designed to help you take that first step. These programs nurture your skills, build your confidence, and prepare you for success in full-time diploma studies — all while connecting you to a supportive community that wants to see you thrive.

Join us for the Pathway Programs Information Session on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at 2055 Notre Dame Ave (Room F205) to learn how you can start your journey.

Discover Your Pathway

Each Pathway Program helps you explore your interests, develop essential academic and technical foundations, and access mentorship and career-focused supports. When you complete a pathway, you’ll be ready to apply for reserved seats in related diploma programs, setting you up for continued success.

Pathway to Business, Creative Communications and Digital Technology Programs

If you’re a storyteller, creative thinker, or entrepreneur at heart, this pathway helps you develop the skills to turn your passion into a profession. You’ll explore exciting fields like business, hospitality, marketing, journalism, media production, and digital media design while gaining the learning strategies and technical foundations to succeed in post-secondary education.

After completing this pathway, you’ll be eligible to apply for limited reserved seats in:

• Business Administration
• Creative Communications
• Digital Media Design
• Hospitality and Tourism Management
• Professional Sales and Strategic Marketing

Pathway to Engineering Technology Programs

If you’re curious about how things work — from bridges and buildings to engines and electrical systems — this pathway helps you prepare for a future in civil, electrical, mechanical, or power engineering technology. You’ll strengthen your math, science, and problem-solving skills while gaining hands-on experience that connects classroom learning to real-world applications.

After completing this pathway, you’ll be eligible to apply for limited reserved seats in:

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

Pathway to Information Technology Programs

Interested in shaping the digital world? This pathway helps you build the foundation for a career in information technology, where you can explore areas like software development, cybersecurity, or IT systems management. You’ll develop the technical skills and confidence to move forward in a rapidly evolving, high-demand industry.

After completing this pathway, you’ll be eligible to apply for limited reserved seats in:

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

Take the First Step Toward Your Future

RRC Polytech’s Pathway Programs are more than just a stepping stone — they’re a launchpad for your career and personal growth. They provide a supportive learning environment that honours where you’re coming from and helps you build toward where you want to go.

Come connect with instructors, advisors, and Indigenous supports who will walk alongside you as you move from Pathway to diploma — and into the industry of your choice.

Pathway Programs Information Session

• Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 6pm – 7pm
• 2055 Notre Dame Ave, Room F205

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:

• Business Administration
• Creative Communications
• Digital Media Design
• Hospitality Business Management
• Professional Sales and Strategic Marketing

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:

• Family Strength Inspires Healing and New Career Path

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