Innovative conversion kit offers a cost-effective solution to adopt more environmentally friendly transportation for students across the province

Winnipeg, MB on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – Today, Manitoba’s first low carbon school bus successfully converted from diesel to electric power is rolling out of RRC Polytech’s Vehicle Technology and Energy Centre (VTEC)  – demonstrating the viability of a cost-effective unique process to electrify current fleets and reduce the environmental impact of using fossil fuels. 

“Our work on the electric school bus conversion kit is the latest example of how applied research collaborations with industry partners support market-driven innovation and product development,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “This project is an example of the applied research expertise and facilities RRC Polytech has developed over the last 20 years that contribute to advancing technologies to support Manitoba’s energy transition.”

Funded by the Government of Manitoba’s Conservation and Climate Fund and the Canadian Shield Foundation, the diesel to EV school bus conversion kit is the result of a collaborative project that brought together the experts at RRC Polytech’s VTEC, Noble Northern and Seven Oaks School Division. The conversion kit reduces greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions, cuts costs for schools and the government, and offers an affordable alternative to factory-built electric buses.

“Manitoba is committed to advancing clean transportation solutions that protect our environment while ensuring safe and sustainable mobility for students,” said the Honourable Mike Moyes, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “We’re thrilled that the result of this collaboration – proof of concept for the conversion of diesel school buses to electric power – not only offers an alternative to importing costly technology, but the potential to stimulate our local economy through job creation and growth.” 

The project began in August 2023, when the Seven Oaks School Division provided a suitable bus for conversion and students from RRC Polytech’s Heavy Equipment Mechanic Program removed its diesel engine before transferring the bus to principal industry collaborator, Noble Northern. VTEC’s research team joined their experts on the groundwork for converting the bus, including the preliminary design for the electric drive system, which eventually led to the procurement of electric motors, batteries, controllers, inverters, and other essential accessories in the conversion kit. After the installation and commissioning phase, the newly converted electric school bus was returned to RRC Polytech for rigorous environmental performance evaluations within MotiveLab™ VTEC’s climatic chamber. 

“RRC Polytech’s VTEC is proudly regarded as a Canadian leader in EV technology. By seeking cost-effective methods to reduce emissions and source renewable energies for fuel for fleet vehicles like school buses, we are helping to build and maintain a sustainable future while training the workforce of tomorrow,” said Jojo Delos Reyes, Program Manager, Vehicle Technology and Energy Centre. “This project also allowed us to deepen our relationship with industry experts, Noble Northern and build on the knowledge that we acquired while working together converting the Arctic Tundra Buggy which will undoubtedly benefit our next partners and projects.” 

Even with labour costs considered, retrofitting an existing diesel bus using the conversion kit saves over $100,000 on the price of purchasing a new factory-built Type C electric school bus, freeing up valuable budget for administrators to reinvest directly into the classroom while still significantly reducing their carbon footprint. The benefits of converting just one bus also include saving up to $11,000 in fuel costs and reducing 21.6 tonnes of CO2 emissions per school year (approximately 39 weeks). Other advantages of switching to this technology include lower maintenance costs and elimination of air and noise pollution.

The unveiling event featured remarks from Fred Meier, Jojo Delos Reyes, Tye Noble, President, Noble Northern, Logan Oxenham, MLA for Kirkfield Park, and the Right Honourable Edward Schreyer, the former Governor General of Canada, former Premier of Manitoba, and founder of the Canadian Shield Foundation. Guests from industry, community, government, and across our campuses even hopped aboard for a quick ride.  

“This successful collaboration has proven what is possible – now we’re ready to literally drive it forward,” said Delos Reyes. “Our next steps are to explore commercialization and scaling possibilities of the conversion process and to connect with partners who are interested and motivated to adopt this new technology.”

Landmark $1.25 million donation to have an impact on more than 200 students per year, including Skilled Trades students and Indigenous learners through RRC Polytech’s Introduction to Trades program  

RRC Polytech is now set to help even more students build a brighter future in the skilled trades thanks to a $1.25 million gift from Qualico, announced today at the College’s Notre Dame Campus.  

The gift expands capacity in RRC Polytech’s Introduction to Trades program, a unique program for Indigenous learners to build specialized skills and gain direct entry into the RRC Polytech trades program of their choice. The gift also supports the creation of a new Navigator position – a role that helps to increase student participation and wrap-around supports. 

“RRC Polytech and Qualico share a common vision of building strong communities with a skilled and talented workforce that is diverse and representative. This donation further exemplifies Qualico’s dedication to reconciliation and their efforts in creating equitable environments for everyone to learn and work,” said Fred Meier, President & CEO, RRC Polytech. “Qualico’s support will benefit countless students and will bolster programming in our skilled trades and technologies department, which will in turn help build a stronger industry here in Manitoba.”

Qualico’s gift provides additional support to RRC Polytech’s School of Skilled Trades and Technologies and the creation of 10 annual awards for Construction Trades students – one of the largest available for skilled trades and technologies students, at $5,000 each. 

“This support for RRC Polytech is the next logical step in the strong partnership between our organizations,” said Kevin Van, President & CEO, Qualico. “Qualico feels compelled to give back to our community, and working with RRC Polytech is a clear choice because of their commitment to student success and building Manitoba’s infrastructure and economy.” 

Qualico has previously supported RRC Polytech through a $150,000 donation to establish the Skilled Trades and Technology Centre, which opened in 2018, and by providing assistance to RRC Polytech students through scholarships, awards and work-integrated learning opportunities. 

Qualico’s support will also benefit the College’s annual Skilled Trades kickoff event, which connects employers with skilled trades students – establishing important connections for future careers after graduation. This gift serves to increase work-integrated learning support for RRC Polytech’s Certificate Trades programming – carpentry, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration and air conditioning, and cabinetry and woodworking. 

“Qualico is proud to work with RRC Polytech and to hire many of their grads, because we know that students graduate from the College equipped with not only the technical skills and experience to take them far, but the cultural competency that will allow them to integrate in our workplace and make a difference in their communities,” said David Eggerman, Qualico Regional Vice-President, Manitoba & Saskatchewan.  “Qualico and RRC Polytech both recognize the vital role that tradespeople play in supporting Manitoba’s future, and we’re thrilled that this partnership will support a stronger and more inclusive workforce for the trades in our province.”

UM and RRC Polytech establish new partnership for students pursuing engineering

A new partnership between the province’s largest post-secondary institutions is creating a made-in-Manitoba pathway to earning an engineering degree.

Students graduating from Red River College Polytechnic’s (RRC Polytech) Engineering Technology programs are now eligible for direct entry into a department program in the Price Faculty of Engineering at the University of Manitoba (UM), creating career options and opportunities for new graduates or industry professionals looking to level up.

This new partnership provides RRC Polytech Engineering Technology graduates the ability to further their education and earn an engineering degree in Manitoba, allowing students to experience the benefits of both programs through an accelerated approach. Pathways are available for up to ten RRC Polytech graduates per year applying to UM’s Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering programs in Fall 2025.

“We’re thrilled to see this partnership with RRC Polytech become a reality. This will mean an easier transition for students, as we work together to develop and keep engineering talent here in Manitoba,” says Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor of UM. “UM’s Price Faculty of Engineering offers a comprehensive range of professional degree programs, co- and extra-curricular co-op, internship, and design opportunities to meet students’ interests, and it also offers the first-in-Canada Department of Engineering Education.”

This opportunity is open to RRC Polytech students graduating in 2025 as well as graduates from the last ten years.

“This partnership creates an invaluable pathway for graduates of RRC Polytech’s Engineering Technology programs to continue their educational journey right here in Manitoba. RRC Polytech and UM have a strong relationship, and this articulation agreement creates more opportunities for student mobility between our institutions. Most importantly it keeps talent here in Manitoba to support our industry and economy,” says Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech.

A recent report from the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Canada West Foundation noted that over the past decade there has been more youth (aged 15 to 34) leaving the province than arriving, with one of the key factors being a lack of opportunities for career advancement. RRC Polytech and UM work closely with industry through program advisory councils and regular discussions about bolstering the province’s economy and providing training for the skills of tomorrow.

For Price Industries, it’s an important part of growing and attracting a strong local workforce.

“For decades, I have had the privilege of hiring and working with graduates from RRC Polytech’s Engineering Technology programs and UM’s Price Faculty of Engineering. Both institutes produce incredible talent that has been vital to the success of our company, and both institutes are our preferred providers of engineering talent, many of whom now lead our various business units. I’m championing this partnership because I know that individuals who take both programs will elevate their own professional skill level and help companies grow and succeed in a multitude of industries,” says Dr. Gerry Price, Chairman and CEO of Price Industries.

This collaborative approach between the post-secondary institutions leverages existing strengths in research, facilities, equipment, infrastructure, and curriculum with the shared goals of supporting student achievement leading to increased graduate numbers, increasing diversity of students, offering high-quality program delivery, and ensuring research success. Both RRC Polytech and UM strive to meet Manitoba employer needs for a diverse workforce through recruitment of under-represented students into Engineering programs.

“It is important for Manitoba’s Polytechnic and Manitoba’s U15 university to be collaborating on education and training opportunities, and we know that the dual credentials are highly valued in industry and support career mobility for the graduates in fields that are important to Manitoba’s economy and growth,” says Marcia Friesen, Dean, Price Faculty of Engineering.

Manitobans of all backgrounds can access an engineering degree through this partnership and existing pathway programs, including supports for Indigenous students through RRC Polytech and UM’s respective programs, Pathway to Engineering Technology Program and Engineering Access Program (ENGAP).

“No matter their level of education or career experience, students can obtain a diploma and degree in engineering and accelerate their career options. This type of cross-institutional agreement will provide clear steps and support for students to adapt seamlessly from classroom to industry,” says Derek Kochenash, Dean, School of Skilled Trades and Technologies, RRC Polytech.

This new agreement is available for students graduating from the following programs at RRC Polytech:

• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Municipal Engineering Technology
• Structural Engineering Technology
• Geomatics Technology
• Environmental Engineering Technology

Applications will close June 1, 2025 for the Fall 2025 start date.

In Fall 2026, the agreement is expected to have additional articulation pathways available for RRC Polytech graduates applying to Biosystems, Electrical and Computer Engineering programs at UM.

For more information about the partnership please contact: collegerelations@rrc.ca

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) will be able to more than double childcare spaces at the Notre Dame Campus daycare, thanks to funding from the federal and provincial governments announced yesterday.  

Through the Canada-Manitoba Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, the College’s will receive support to add 74 new childcare spaces to the R.R.C. Early Childhood Centre Inc. 

“Childcare continues to be one of the barriers that prevent Manitobans from accessing post-secondary education and training. RRC Polytech is committed to creating more pathways to education and enhancing the student experience, and we’re thrilled to have the support of the federal and provincial governments to create these new spaces and help us achieve this,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “These new spaces represent an opportunity for potential learners who would otherwise be unable to attend full-time programs; and for staff and community members who have been unable to find convenient, quality childcare solutions.” 

RRC Polytech’s Early Childhood Centre currently has 53 spaces, serving current students, staff and community members.  

“R.R.C. Early Childhood Centre Inc. has been serving staff and students of RRC Polytech for the past 50 years. We are excited to see our program grow to serve more people within the RRC Polytech community,” said Samantha Henry, Executive Director for R.R.C Early Childhood Centre Inc. “We look forward to our continued partnership with RRC Polytech to ensure that we can continue to provide high quality child care and support families, as they pursue their post-secondary education and training or pursue their careers and grow their families.” 

The expansion to RRC Polytech’s Early Childhood Centre was part of an announcement made by the Honourable Jenna Sudds, Minister of Children and Social Development for the Government of Canada and the Honourable Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning for the Province of Manitoba. 

“Child care is a vital support for parents, families and communities and that’s why we need to meet parents and children where they are,” said Sudds in a release. “We’ll continue to work with Manitoba to find new innovative solutions to creating more affordable child care spaces, to reduce waitlists and to grow the early childhood workforce, to fit parents needs, where and when they need it the most.” 

“We’re investing in child care spaces to meet parents and caregivers where they’re at to make life easier for families,” said Schmidt in a release. “Our government continues to build the child care system as a whole – creating spaces that meet the needs of families, offering programming to attract and support child care professionals and investing in learning outcomes for a quality early education experience.” 

The governments of Canada and Manitoba are funding 128 new child care spaces between RRC Polytech and the University College of the North’s Thompson campus. These spaces are in addition to those previously announced at nine other post-secondary campuses across the province, for a combined total of over 800 new spaces at Manitoba post-secondary institutions and a total investment of $60.5 million. 

Further details about the construction and anticipated opening date for the RRC Polytech expansion will be shared with the College community as they are available. 

Read the full release from the Federal and Provincial governments 

Opportunities in Early Childhood Education Continue to Grow 

RRC Polytech’s Early Childhood Education and  Early Childhood Education (ECE) Workplace programs have limited spaces available for Fall 2025. The workplace program allows experienced child-care assistants working in licensed child-care programs across Manitoba to remain employed while obtaining the specialized skills needed to be an ECE Level II.  

Interested applicants are encouraged to visit RRC Polytech’s Open Doors event tonight to speak to instructors and learn more about the rewarding career possibilities in early childhood education. Open Doors runs from 5:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. this evening at the Notre Dame Campus and Exchange District Campus.

Manitoba’s Polytechnic receives largest tri-council grant ever awarded to a College – over $24 million in federal Lab to Market funding

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis – Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) has been chosen to lead a national network of post-secondary institutions and collaborative partners to bring more academic research ideas to reality, support Indigenous business and drive economic growth.

As part of a national innovation strategy to increase entrepreneurship and research commercialization across Canada, RRC Polytech has been awarded $24.1 million in federal funding over five years through a Lab to Market grant – becoming one of four network leaders to share in a total investment of $95.3 million. 

Administered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) in collaboration with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), this is the largest tri-council grant ever awarded to or led by a College in Canada. 

“For over 20 years, RRC Polytech has been solving industry problems and training tomorrow’s future leaders through applied research, and today we are honoured to continue to build on our strengths as a polytechnic and lead this collaborative nationwide network through the largest ever tri-council investment in a college,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Our shared goal is to find solutions for the challenges that all Canadians are facing. This network combines the unique abilities of researchers at colleges and universities and connects them directly with industry and community to accelerate innovation.”        

“Canada is home to world-class researchers, who generate ground-breaking technologies and innovations, and they need support to successfully commercialize their work,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry in the government news release. “Through these networks, researchers will receive the support they need to bring their innovations to market, benefiting communities from coast to coast to coast.” 

The College-University Lab to Market Network for Entrepreneurship and Research Commercialization spans eight regional hubs from B.C. to Nova Scotia and brings together 38 post-secondary institutions, along with other collaborators – including RRC Polytech’s Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah, one of three Indigenous hubs.  

The support of Indigenous business growth is a foundational objective. Tailoring mentorship and resources to support Indigenous entrepreneurs while ensuring all research respects the principles of OCAP® (Ownership, Control, Access and Possession) is a shared goal that differentiates this network from other proposals that were considered. 

Another unique element is including both colleges and universities as they traditionally take a different approach to research. The network is designed to maximize the strengths of all contributors. 

Canadian researchers continually make discoveries with extraordinary potential across all sectors of the economy and society, but additional guidance and support is required for their ideas to become the next great products and processes. The infrastructure and expertise in industry-facing applied research found at Canada’s colleges and polytechnic institutions is critical for translating university-led academic research into innovation for the market and community users.  

“This investment is a significant step in supporting Canadian researchers by giving them the tools, resources, and support they need to turn their ideas into real-world solutions,” said the Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister of Sports and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, who was at the Notre Dame Campus to make the announcement. “By connecting academic research with industry, we are helping to create new opportunities for innovation and economic growth across Canada.” 

The network will provide researchers with what they need to transfer scientific, social, and service innovation to market or to community users.   This support includes the sharing of best practices; digital resources to enhance awareness and knowledge of commercialization processes; mentorship and business coaching; financial assistance; and access to an established Canada wide network of Technology Access Centres. 

RRC Polytech’s strong reputation for collaboration, commitments to deepening partnerships and Truth and Reconciliation and central location made it a natural fit to lead the network – another first, considering its size and scope.    

“The college, university, community, and industry partners in this initiative are the links in a chain of innovation and entrepreneurialism,” said Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Executive Director, Research Partnerships and Innovation, RRC Polytech.  “By working together to ramp up productivity through the commercialization of Canadian research and IP, we’ll enhance our global competitiveness and positively affect all aspects of life for Canadians – economic, social or environmental.” 

The Lab to Market initiative provides stable, long-term funding for all disciplines within the natural sciences, engineering, the social sciences, the humanities, and health. RRC Polytech will immediately begin building capacity to lead its network of participants dedicated to fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that accelerates the economic and societal impact of Canadian research. 

“Lab to Market grants bridge the gap between research ideas and their translation into economic and social innovation,” said Professor Alejandro Adem, FRSC, President, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. “I can’t wait to see the results that will emerge from this new initiative!”

Co-applicant institutions:

British Columbia Institute of Technology, Cégep de Sherbrooke, Cégep de Thetford, College of the North Atlantic, Humber Polytechnic, Lethbridge College, Loyalist College of Applied Arts and Technology, MacEwan University, Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology, Mount Saint Vincent University, New Brunswick Community College, NorQuest College, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Northwestern Polytechnic, Nova Scotia Community College, Olds College, Red Deer Polytechnic, Saint Mary’s University, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Selkirk College, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, University College of the North, University of Alberta, University of Lethbridge, University of Manitoba, University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, United College – University of Waterloo, Western University, Yukon University 

Collaborating partners:  

MTA, NorthForge, Mitacs, Polytechnics Canada, Tech Access Canada, C2R2, Applied Pharmaceuticals Innovation, Edmonton Regional Innovation Network, CARIN, Calgary Innovation Coalition, Innovation Saskatchewan, Cultivator powered by Conexus, Synchronex, Axelys, Springboard Atlantic, Atlantic Colleges Atlantique

Forty-three students in two of Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech)’s Pathway programs – Pathway to Information Technology and Pathway to Engineering – are starting their second term strong thanks to free technology from Lenovo.

“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.”

As the winter term begins, Warren Beleyowski, Account Executive from Lenovo is joining 11 students from the Pathway to Engineering Technology programs for a visual demonstration of how they are integrating Indigenous perspectives into the field of engineering, providing them with a more sustainable approach to the industry. Photo opportunities and interviews with RRC Polytech students and faculty, and Warren Beleyowski, are available.

When: 12:30-1:00 p.m., January 14, 2025

Where: Indigenous Student Support Centre, Second floor of F Building, RRC Polytech, Notre Dame Campus (1055 Notre Dame Avenue)

The Lenovo Thinkpad X13 Gen 4 laptops were given to the students at the beginning of the Fall 2024 term, and students will be able to keep them even after their programs come to an end this spring. The College’s Pathway programs are designed to equip Indigenous Manitobans with the support and skills needed to confidently transition into specific RRC Polytech programs.

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 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.”

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.

“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.”

Throughout the month of January, RRC Polytech is waiving the registration fee for First Nations (Status and non-Status), Métis and Inuit learners to any RRC Polytech program. Waiving application fees during this period is part of RRC Polytech’s ongoing strategy to increase Indigenous enrolment and reduce barriers to education. With over 150 programs to choose from, including seven Pathways and introductory programs through the School of Indigenous Education, qualified learners can find the perfect program to fit their needs and provide the credential needed to start a career. 

The Schroeder Foundation reaches a milestone of $18.2 million in support to RRC Polytech with new $1.25 million donation to provide full-ride scholarships for Winnipeg students.

Winnipeg, MB on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis – More Manitoba students can breathe easy knowing they won’t have to pay for their program at RRC Polytech thanks to a $1.25 million donation from Walter and Maria Schroeder, through the Schroeder Foundation.

This most recent donation from the Schroeder Foundation comes on the heels of a $15 million donation to create the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts, 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, are changing the lives of their “Schroeder Students” at RRC Polytech 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.

“Supporting students who might need financial support to complete their education is important to us,” 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. 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.”

The donation will support students like Veronica Ade – Schroeder Scholarship recipient and a second-year Business Administration student with dreams of opening a storefront for her hair braiding business after graduation.

“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 want to thank the Schroeder Foundation for the opportunity, I really don’t know how to thank them enough.”

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.

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 were awarded in 2023 with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Manitoba Outstanding Philanthropist Award. The Schroeders are the largest donor of full-ride scholarships at RRC Polytech and in 2022 were awarded an Honorary Bachelor of Education Degree from the College for their steadfast dedication to removing barriers to education for Manitoba youth.

High volume of completed projects ranks first among peer institutions in annual research rankings 

For immediate release:

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis – RRC Polytech’s Research Partnerships and Innovation (RPI) celebrates its 20th year by continuing to lead Canada’s medium-tier colleges in applied research projects, with 222 completed in 2023 alone. The College secured 146 research partnerships and saw a 94% increase in industry investments over the previous year, showcasing its growing influence. Re$earch Infosource released its annual rankings of the country’s top research colleges yesterday.

“These results reflect RRC Polytech’s proven track record with two decades of applied research success and the trust we’ve built with partners across all sectors,” said Jamie Wilson, VP of Indigenous Strategy, Research, and Business Development. “Applied research is a cornerstone of our identity as Manitoba’s polytechnic, offering our technology, expertise and facilities to identify affordable and effective solutions to challenges faced by businesses and communities alike.”

RRC Polytech has made its mark in diverse fields, from developing bioplastic food packaging to pioneering diesel-to-electric bus conversions. The Centre for Automation and Manufacturing Technology Transfer (CAMTT), located at the College’s Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics, launched this fall, is the latest addition to its capabilities, focusing on Industry 4.0 technologies like robotics, additive manufacturing, and AI.

Manitoba’s businesses continue to invest in this work and trust the expertise of the College’s research teams, fuelling confidence in funders of research endeavors. Over the last 5 years, RRC Polytech’s granting council revenue ranks second among its peers at nearly $16 million, funding projects like robotic precision improvements and 3D vision systems that leverage the institution’s expertise in advanced manufacturing.

“We’re solving real-world problems for our partners at all stages, from growth and productivity to adopting new tech to creating sustainable processes,” said Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Director of Research Partnerships & Innovation.

“Through applied research collaborations, RRC Polytech has proudly been making things possible in Manitoba for 20 years and our operation and leadership role within the innovation ecosystem continues to grow.”

Notably, RRC Polytech is the only post-secondary in Canada that integrates research into its Indigenous Strategy portfolio, underscoring its unique commitment to social innovation and Indigenous growth in Manitoba.

“Applied research connects our faculty, staff and students, provides invaluable experience through work-integrated learning and helps to create a problem-solving mindset across our College community,” added Wilson. “We’re driving alignment, innovation, and progress that elevates all Manitobans.”

As one of Canada’s leading polytechnics, RRC Polytech continues to expand its influence, creating solutions that make a difference in Manitoba and beyond.

Learn more at rrc.ca/research.

About the Rankings
Re$earch Infosource annually ranks Canada’s top research colleges based on performance metrics such as research income, partnerships, and completed projects. Institutions are categorized by size to ensure accurate comparisons. RRC Polytech consistently ranks among the top performers in the medium-tier category, earning recognition for its research excellence, innovation, and industry impact.

Culinary Arts students to transform fresh donated turkeys into creative dishes

Winnipeg, MB on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis – RRC Polytech is thrilled to once again host this year’s Iron Chef Turkey Competition tomorrow, providing Culinary Arts students with an opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity in preparing turkey dishes while competing for prizes. The competition is made possible by generous turkey donations from Granny’s Poultry, and sponsorship from Manitoba Turkey Producers (MTP).

“The competition will not only celebrate the culinary student’s talent but also emphasize the importance of hands-on learning in the culinary arts. It’s an opportunity for students to refine their cooking skills, try new flavours, and practice presenting dishes under pressure,” said Karl Oman, Chef Instructor in the Culinary Arts program at RRC Polytech and competition organizer.

“We’ve been doing this for 15 years now, giving students a great opportunity to practice their cooking skills, and win prizes that supports their future,” said Oman.

Held at the Paterson GlobalFoods Institute (PGI), the event will start at 10 a.m. Over the course of three hours, eight students will prepare an appetizer and entrée using fresh whole or ground turkey provided by Granny’s Poultry. Participants will have 15-30 minutes to plan their dishes and will be judged on taste, presentation, and creativity.

Manitoba Turkey Producers (MTP) is sponsoring the event with prize money of $1,000 for first place, $750 for second, and $500 for third. Two MTP representatives will also join the judging panel.

“We’re proud to sponsor this competition and support these young, aspiring chefs as they develop skills that will take them far in their careers,” said Velangeline Lachance, Communications Manager at MTP and one of the judges. “We hope they continue to incorporate turkey into their dishes as a versatile, year-round ingredient.”

Granny’s Poultry, a brand of Exceldor Cooperative, the largest poultry cooperative in the country, has supported this event for over a decade, providing fresh turkeys to help students hone their culinary skills. This year, they donated 12 whole fresh turkeys and a case of ground turkey.

“We’re thrilled to donate our turkeys for the competition. These students are the next generation of culinary talent who will be cooking globally and shaping the future of the food industry. Supporting their growth and innovation is something we’re incredibly proud to be a part of,” said Barclay Uruski, who is on the Exceldor Cooperative Board of Directors.

Media is invited to attend tomorrow’s competition to learn more about the event, meet the participants, and tour the facilities.

Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024

Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Location: Red River College Paterson Global Foods Institute,

Exchange District Campus

504 Main St, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0T1

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis Nation – RRC Polytech is excited to announce Ron Drepaul, General Manager at Magellan Aerospace Winnipeg and a 1987 graduate of the College’s Business Administration program, as the recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Graduate Award. This prestigious honour will be presented to Drepaul on November 28, 2024, at the Manitoba Aerospace All-Star Awards Dinner. 

The Distinguished Graduate Award celebrates alumni who have made remarkable contributions to their industries, communities, and RRC Polytech. Drepaul’s career at Magellan Aerospace spans over 35 years, during which he rose from the shop floor to General Manager. Today, he oversees 700 employees and leads major projects that strengthen Manitoba’s role in the global aerospace sector. Known for his commitment to mentorship, partnership, and community impact, Drepaul exemplifies the values that RRC Polytech instills in its graduates. 

“Ron’s journey is an inspiring example of what RRC Polytech stands for: the belief that education, hard work, and resilience can transform lives,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO of RRC Polytech. “Ron’s story, from his early days at RRC Polytech to his current role as an industry leader, showcases our graduates’ potential to create lasting impact—not only in their fields but in their communities. We are proud to honour him as this year’s Distinguished Graduate.” 

Reflecting on the award, Drepaul shared his gratitude for his education and the opportunities it created. “Receiving this award feels like coming full circle. My time at RRC Polytech shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined back then, and it taught me the power of collaboration, hard work, and saying ‘yes’ to new challenges,” he said. “This recognition is humbling, but it’s also an opportunity to remind students and young professionals that, with the right attitude, the sky is the limit.” 

Under Drepaul’s leadership, Magellan Aerospace has become an invaluable partner to the College. It hires co-op students, creates career pathways, and supports applied research initiatives like the Advanced Composites Manufacturing Centre. Drepaul is passionate about using his platform to encourage RRC Polytech graduates to enter Manitoba’s growing aerospace sector. 

“Working in a technology-driven field with a Business Administration diploma shows that education can lead to places you may never expect. I hope this award sends a message to students that they don’t need to have everything figured out right away—they need to keep learning and stay open to new possibilities.”   As the 2024 recipient of the Distinguished Graduate Award, Drepaul joins an esteemed group of RRC Polytech alumni whose achievements reflect the college’s mission to produce skilled and innovative leaders. His story exemplifies the limitless possibilities that can unfold through dedication, mentorship, and community support.