In the creative arts industry, navigating the unknown is par for the course. But even the most creative among us may need an extra boost in exploring one of the greatest challenges of our time: climate change.

Enter RRC Polytech’s Schroeder Institute for Entertainment and Media Arts. The Schroeder Institute, in partnership with BizForClimate, is making sure the next generation of creatives is well-equipped to work sustainably, with the “Made to Work Here: Sustainability in Manitoba’s Creative Industries” session – an engaging exploration of how sustainability is shaping the future of the creative industry.

“Creativity has the power to shape the way people think, feel, and act, which is why it’s so important for those working in creative industries to understand sustainability,” says Kirk Johnson, Dean of the School of Business, Information Technology and Creative Arts, RRC Polytech. “By learning how to make thoughtful, responsible choices in their work, creative artists can work to inspire audiences while also contributing to a more sustainable future.”

The session features a presentation on the key concepts of sustainability in the creative sector and why they matter for the industry’s future growth. Following the presentation is a panel featuring industry professionals sharing their experiences in rolling out sustainability in storytelling, practice, and in ways that solve local problems.

RRC Polytech will also reinforce its commitment to sustainability at the event, by signing the BizforClimate pledge.

Panel speakers:

• Kyle Schmitz, Founder of Teenage Astronauts
• Dee King, Co-Founder of ZenFri Inc.
• Samantha Leigh, Production Team Lead of Green Spark Group

“A growing industry trying to compete on the world stage doesn’t often care how they grow, and that’s been Canada’s creative sector over the decades,” says Dee King, Co-Founder of ZenFri Inc. “But as we get closer to Canada’s Net Zero Targets across all sectors, it is a growing concern for Producers, Funders and Creatives. Thankfully, sustainability requires out-of-the-box thinking which creative professionals excel at, so there is no shortage of solutions, big or small.”

The event is free and open to everyone. To learn more and register, please click here.

Many of the foundations of a polytechnic education – applied learning, adaptability, and strong partnerships – were on full display as RRC Polytech hosted a challenge during the Manitoba leg of The Amazing Race Canada.

“Creating opportunities for people to test their skills, work together, and grow through experience is what we do every day at RRC Polytech,” said Jayne Geisel, Associate Dean, Construction Trades at RRC Polytech. “In our labs and classrooms learning happens by doing, and every challenge is an opportunity to build confidence, capability, and career-ready skills.”

The project also demonstrated RRC Polytech’s commitment to lifelong learning.

“We hope our appearance on the show not only spotlights RRC Polytech’s capabilities but helps to demonstrate that every experience, victory or failure, adds to your long-term growth,” said Geisel. “Whether you’re in a classroom, at a job site, in the comfort of your own home, there is always something new that you can learn – and the rewards of practicing lifelong learning are truly amazing.”

If you missed the episode on September 8, it can be streamed on CRAVE or the CTV app.

This fall, as RRC Polytech welcomes new and returning students and staff, we are sharing important updates about campus safety, health and security. These resources are intended to help you stay informed, connected and supported throughout the year.

Exchange District Campus (EDC) Hours and Access

• Monday to Friday – 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and student and staff access only from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. 
• Saturday and Sunday – 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., swipe card or buzz-in access only

At the Exchange District Campus (EDC), students and staff and faculty are required to scan their valid RRC Polytech-issued ID card upon arrival at a designated entrance. This process is an extra layer of security to verify individuals are permitted to be on campus. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we continue to proactively enhance security measures to best support everyone on campus.

Designated Campus Entrances at EDC:

• The Roblin Centre – North and South Atrium doors
• Manitou a bi Bii daziigae – Elgin Plaza doors
• Paterson GlobalFoods Institute – Main Street and King Street doors

Additional card readers control access to elevators and spaces above the first floor. This helps students and staff reach the spaces they need while keeping public areas—including Tim Hortons, the Campus Store and Student Services—accessible to visitors.

Visitor and Contractor access:

Approved visitors, including service personnel, guests, contractors and people visiting in support of RRC Polytech programs, may continue to access the campus. All visitors and contractors must check in with Security Services when they arrive. Contractors working on campus must provide a valid piece of photo ID, such as a driver’s licence. A Security Services team member will direct guests to their destination as needed.

Students and staff are encouraged to get or replace their RRC Polytech ID card. The card is required to enter the Exchange District Campus and access facilities such as fitness centres and certain rooms. To learn how and where to get a student or staff ID card, visit rrc.ca/ID.

Notre Dame Campus (NDC) Hours and Access

• Monday to Friday – 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and student and staff access only from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. 
• Saturday and Sunday – 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., entrance though Building C (Security doors)

To access NDC during regular weekday hours, students and staff can enter through available building entrances. Visitors and contractors must check in with Security Services in Building C upon their arrival. Contractors working on campus must provide a valid piece of photo ID, such as a driver’s licence. 

After Hours Access:

Between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on weekdays, students and staff may enter campus only through the east-side doors of Building C. On weekends, Building C is the only campus entrance available.

South Winnipeg Campus (SWC) Hours and Access

• Monday to Friday – 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and student and staff access only from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Staff, students and faculty may remain on site until 10:00 p.m., with Security using the period from 10:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. to secure the facilities.
• If you need to access the campus after 8:00 p.m., please enter through the main entrance at 130 Henlow (facing Kenaston) for both the Henlow and Fultz buildings. For the Pembina campus, please use the main entrance doors. 
• If Security is temporarily unavailable, please contact 204-632-3828 for assistance.  

From Monday to Friday, students and staff can enter SWC through available building entrances. Contractors and visitors must check in with Security Services at 130 Henlow for the Fultz and Henlow buildings, or at 1551 Pembina for the Pembina building. They must also present valid photo ID.

Weekend hours:

Weekend access at Henlow, Fultz and Pembina is from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Security will begin securing the buildings at 3:30 p.m. and will complete the process by 4:00 p.m. Staff working on campus during these hours are asked to notify Security before departing.

After Hours Access:

For campus entry between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekdays, students and staff must call Security Services at 204-632-3828.

Upcoming Campus Closures

Please note that all RRC Polytech campuses are closed for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Wednesday, September 30, 2026. For further information about upcoming closures visit rrc.ca/dates. 

Campus Alerting System

The Campus Alerting System sends out important and time-sensitive safety updates to staff and faculty members’ RRC Polytech-issued phones. Students are encouraged to sign up to receive alerts and email notifications by joining the Campus Alerting Microsoft Teams Site. 

Safe Walk and Safe Ride

Safe Walk and Safe Ride are services that provide escorts for students and staff between two points on campus or to a point near the campus, including parking lots. To access Safe Walk or Ride services, call:

• EDC – 204-949-8305
• NDC – 204-632-2323
• SWC – 204-632-3828

Health Services

RRC Polytech Health Services offers students and staff mental health support, sexual health education, injury and illness assessments, student medical plan development, and connections to internal and external resources such as Student Support Services, Klinic and the Crisis Response Centre.

In most cases, you do not need a Manitoba, provincial or international health card to access Health Services. A health card may be required if you are referred to another service, such as QDoc.

Health Centre Locations:

• EDC – located at W103 (first floor, William building), re-opens as of Tuesday, September 8.
• Drop-in from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., no appointment required
• NDC – located at HM08 (mall level, H building)
• Drop-in from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., no appointment required

Students and staff at the South Winnipeg Campus can access Health Services by calling 204-632-2238 or emailing healthservices@rrc.ca.

Personal Belongings

Do not leave personal belongings unattended at any RRC Polytech campus, including in locked classrooms or breakout rooms. RRC Polytech is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged unattended property.

Feedback and Questions

Thank you for your ongoing support and feedback. If you have questions or suggestions about safety, health or security at RRC Polytech, email safety@rrc.ca. Your input helps us continue to improve our approach across all campuses.

From predictive maintenance and quality control to production optimization and data-driven decision-making, AI applications are becoming more common on factory floors and throughout manufacturing operations. As new tools, platforms and capabilities emerge at a rapid pace, many industry professionals face a growing challenge: keeping up. 

To address this need, RRC Polytech has launched Artificial Intelligence for Advanced Manufacturing, a micro-credential course designed to provide a practical introduction to machine learning, deep learning, generative AI and smart manufacturing. Through hands-on, industry-focused projects, participants learn how to transform manufacturing data into actionable insights and apply AI tools to real-world operational challenges. 

“Success in today’s fast-changing world belongs to organizations that embrace emerging technologies,” says Ayodele Ibinaiye, Chair, Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics at RRC Polytech. “You do not need to be an AI expert, but you must understand enough to recognize opportunities and turn innovation into efficiency.” 

Manufacturers already manage complex production schedules, operational demands and evolving customer expectations. Adding AI to the equation can feel overwhelming, particularly as organizations work to understand which technologies are worth exploring and how they can be applied in practical ways. 

“This course gives students the opportunity to create AI models tailored to the advanced manufacturing sector and execute practical, hands-on AI projects,” says Vikram Banthia, Director of RRC Polytech’s Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics.  

“By examining advanced manufacturing processes and technologies that could be improved by implementing AI solutions, students will gain the necessary skills to thrive in the advanced manufacturing sector.”  

While the need for human-powered manufacturing expertise is here to stay, understanding AI’s capabilities, limitations and practical applications is becoming an increasingly valuable skill. As technology continues to evolve, staying informed may be one of the most important ways manufacturing professionals can prepare for what’s next. 

Learn more about the AI for Advanced Manufacturing micro-credential here.

The following was published in the Winnipeg Free Press on September 1, 2026

By: Jamie Wilson

When we talk about barriers to education, what usually comes to mind are tuition, cost of books or access to technology.

But, after years of listening to Indigenous students, families, elders, communities, and organizations across Manitoba, we heard something else. For many, the biggest barrier to post-secondary education is having a safe place to live, where their culture is honoured and resources are accessible.

Jordan was living in a tent in downtown Winnipeg for the first few weeks of his time at RRC Polytech.

Before attending Pathways to Business, he had been progressing in his journey to sobriety for a while. He knew he needed to keep that momentum going, and the opportunity came when he saw a poster for the program. Jordan saved up money from social assistance to apply, and was accepted for the 2024 fall term.

Barely a month into the program, a fire destroyed his tent and all his belongings.

It was then that he reached out to our staff for help. He shared what had happened, the troubles that he faced trying to come to school, and asked how we might be able to help.

Staff rallied to support him — they secured emergency housing before helping him transition into regular housing. With that support, Jordan could safely focus on schoolwork without having to worry about where he’d sleep at night.

Earlier this year, RRC Polytech released Our Roadmap Forward: Ensuring the Success of Indigenous Students. The report identifies 73 interconnected factors affecting Indigenous students’ applications, enrolment and success in post-secondary education. It’s the culmination of years of engagement and research through RRC Polytech’s Overcoming Barriers for Indigenous Students project.

This work affirmed that educational success does not begin in the classroom. It begins with whether a learner has reliable transportation. Whether they can access childcare. Whether they have the identification needed to open a bank account or register for services.

And, perhaps most importantly, whether they have a safe and stable place to call home.

We have a housing affordability crisis in Canadian post-secondary education, with 72 per cent of students spending more than 30 per cent of their income on housing.

Compounding this issue is the reality that Indigenous, Black, and equity-deserving post-secondary students experience housing insecurity at disproportionate rates. Off-reserve Indigenous households are 17.8 per cent more likely to live in housing that falls below national adequacy standards.

Keeping our focus on Indigenous students, the relationship between housing and education is often even more complex. When these students come to RRC Polytech, housing becomes the foundation on which everything else depends.

The findings in Our Roadmap Forward demonstrate that housing intersects with nearly every other challenge Indigenous students may face. A stable address makes it easier to obtain identification, establish banking services, access health care, secure childcare, connect with support programs, and maintain consistent transportation to campus.

It is particularly important for learners transitioning from the child welfare system, those returning from involvement with the correctional system and those caring for children or elders.

Housing cannot simply be another box to check on a list of student supports.

It is the place from which all other support becomes possible — it is student success infrastructure.

The conversation about Indigenous education must also recognize a broader truth.

For generations, colonial policies forcibly removed Indigenous children from their families and communities under the guise of education. Residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, and the child welfare system all deliberately separated children from their languages, cultures, and support systems, which have caused lasting harm that continues to affect families and communities today.

Today, Indigenous learners are choosing education for themselves to strengthen their families and communities. But, too often when they make that choice, many encounter barriers that make participation more difficult than it should be.

An uncomfortable question worth asking is: if Canada once found the resources to forcibly house Indigenous children in church-run institutions, why do Indigenous learners now struggle to find safe, affordable housing when they voluntarily seek higher education?

We need to lead the conversation with answers and actions. We are going to change the narrative around education for Indigenous learners.

Reconciliation requires more than acknowledging the past. It requires removing the barriers that persist into the present. At the same time, we must avoid forcing a choice between learning in cities and staying in home communities. Indigenous learners need both. Expanding opportunities in communities while ensuring learners can access safe housing when relocation is necessary are complementary goals, not competing ones.

Investing in Indigenous student success offers generational return on investment. Not only does it create opportunities for individuals, it helps build stronger families whose members see post-secondary in their future and in turn builds stronger families, healthier communities, and a more prosperous country.

Jordan went on to become the 2025 Pow Wow valedictorian and received a $16,000 scholarship from a major financial institution, where he worked over the summer.

If we are serious about reconciliation in Canada, we must recognize a simple reality — education cannot thrive without safe, affordable housing.

Before students can focus on learning, they must know they are safe. And before we can expect Indigenous learners to overcome barriers, we must be willing to remove them.

Jamie Wilson is vice-president, Indigenous strategy, research and business development at RRC Polytech.

A microgrid testbed, a prefabricated housing construction project, and an upgraded user experience/user interface (UX/UI) research lab at RRC Polytech are set to benefit from more than $2 million in federal funding, according to an announcement yesterday from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI).

RRC Polytech was the only institution to be awarded the maximum of three projects. These projects will receive funding from CFI’s College Fund and represent three out of 23 projects to receive the support nationwide.  The College Fund is part of a larger investment of more than $118 million that will support 357 research infrastructure projects at 68 institutions throughout the country.

The projects will also receive additional matching funds thanks to Research Manitoba, totaling $2,079,656. These investments strengthen Manitoba’s research infrastructure and support world-class innovation across a range of disciplines. Funding for these key infrastructure projects is possible thanks to increased funding for Research Manitoba from the Government of Manitoba.

“This new funding expands RRC Polytech and its Research Partnerships and Innovation department as a national leader in renewable energy research and development, sustainable construction, and digital technologies,” said Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Executive Director, Research Partnerships & Innovation, RRC Polytech. “Thanks to CFI, our existing research infrastructure will receive the support needed to confront the very real challenges our region is facing.”

The funding will support the development of Microgrid Testbed facilities on the RRC Polytech campus – technology that will enable communities to develop energy sources and grid resilience in northern and Indigenous communities across the province.

Through RRC Polytech’s Vehicle Technology & Energy Centre, the microgrid testbed will expand applied research capabilities related to vehicle-to-grid and battery energy storage. The microgrid will enable exploration of optimal performance, reliability, and resiliency of multiple Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), including storage (battery and thermal), a solar emulator, a diesel genset, and various additional assets such as electric vehicles and chargers. The technology facilitates research into energy efficiency, performance, and optimization, strengthening the Manitoba Cluster and fostering research, skills development, education, and the commercialization of technologies.

The CFI funding will also establish the new Prairie Prefab Lab, an energy-efficient prefabricated (prefab) housing project spearheaded by RRC Polytech’s Building Efficiency Technology Access Centre (BETAC). Modular and prefab construction provide an innovative solution to Canada’s affordable housing crisis, offering a scalable, cost-effective solution – particularly for remote communities across the prairies.

“This investment creates critical infrastructure that enables the construction industry to demonstrate, test and validate full-scale prefab and modular building solutions.,” continued Galaugher. “By reducing barriers to innovation and commercialization, we are helping accelerate the next generation of resilient community infrastructure for the prairie region.”

The funding allows BETAC to acquire a full-size structural testing system, enabling the enterprise to evaluate complete building assemblies under real-world conditions. The new equipment was identified through extensive industry consultation, including 10 in-depth interviews with sector leaders and will allow BETAC to evaluate complete building assemblies under real-world conditions.

The College Fund support will also support RRC Polytech’s Applied Computer Education (ACE) Project Space to acquire specialized equipment that will expand its UX/UI Research Lab into a nationally recognized hub for human-centered design. Featuring enhanced testing and observation spaces, including a dedicated control room, the lab will bring together researchers, students, industry, Indigenous and community partners to co-create solutions that address challenges in climate resilience, health equity, digital inclusion, workforce development, and sustainable technologies.

The upgraded facility will support the development of practical, culturally responsive tools and services for sectors such as healthcare, education, and smart cities, advancing innovation while strengthening RRC Polytech’s commitment to sustainability, reconciliation, and community impact.

Applied research colleges play a unique role in Canada’s innovation ecosystem by working in collaboration with industry and end users to solve real world challenges. These investments strengthen RRC Polytech’s ability to test, validate and demonstrate new technologies accelerating their path to adoption.

CFI’s College Fund supports applied research and technology development with Canadian industries and communities to strengthen Canada’s economy and improve our quality of life. A full list of funded projects is available at Innovation.ca.

RRC Polytech welcomes the recent announcement by the Government of Canada of an additional $2 billion to help provinces and territories expand skilled trades training capacity through Team Canada Strong.

This investment recognizes the importance of strengthening the entire skilled trades system, from pre-apprenticeship through to certification, to help build the workforce Canada needs for housing, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, defence, and clean energy.

As Manitoba’s polytechnic, RRC Polytech is helping train the next generation of skilled trades professionals today, and is well positioned to do even more to support the workforce that will build Canada’s future.

We appreciate the federal government’s continued engagement with provinces and training institutions, and the Province of Manitoba’s leadership in advancing apprenticeship modernization and advocating for investments that strengthen long-term training capacity.

We look forward to continuing to work alongside both governments to expand training capacity, reduce barriers to skilled trades careers, and prepare the highly skilled workforce Manitoba and Canada need for generations to come.

Information for new students at RRC Polytech’s South Winnipeg Campus:

Our teams at RRC Polytech have worked together to ensure you have the support, services, and resources you need for a successful start to your academic journey. 

Over the coming weeks, we will continue to share important information about campus life, student services, key dates, and what to expect as classes begin. Our goal is to make the transition into your program as smooth as possible and help you feel confident, connected, and ready for the term ahead. 

We know this has been a period of change for many members of our campus community, and we recognize that uncertainty can sometimes create questions. Throughout this process, our focus has remained on supporting students and ensuring you have access to the information and assistance you need. We are grateful for your patience, understanding, and commitment to your education. 

To help keep you informed, we will provide regular updates by email and through our transition information webpage. These updates will include important reminders, campus information, student supports, and other details to help you prepare for a successful semester.

We are excited to welcome you to campus this fall and look forward to supporting you as you begin your studies. Thank you for choosing RRC Polytech and for being part of our community. We are committed to helping you achieve your goals and make the most of your student experience.

Where to go with questions about the transition:

If you have questions that have not yet been addressed, please send them to transition@rrc.ca. Questions will be monitored and directed to the appropriate teams within MITT and RRC Polytech.

Student Support Services  

Students at the South Winnipeg Campus can access a wide range of supports designed to help them succeed throughout their educational journey, including: 

• Academic Advising 

• Accessibility Services 

• Library and Academic Services  

• Tutoring and Academic Coaching  

• Career Workshops and Employment Supports 

• International Student Supports 

• Indigenous Student Supports 

Information about each of these services can be found at rrc.ca/support. 

Accessing Services 

At this time, services will primarily be available by appointment and may be offered online or in-person, while we work out the on-campus schedule. Services may be available on a drop-in schedule. More information will be shared throughout the fall as the demand for services is identified.     

RRC Polytech Students:

To access student support services, students can visit rrc.ca/support or the Student Success Centre (Student Support Centre) in Room 101.1 at the Henlow building. A staff member will be stationed in this space throughout the week to help connect students with the services they need.  

MITT Students:

To access student support services, students can email studentservices@mitt.ca or visit the Student Success Centre (Student Support Centre) in Room 101.1 at the Henlow building.  A staff member will be stationed in this space throughout the week to help connect students with the services they need. 

MITT Student Services will split time between the Henlow and Pembina buildings to provide advising, counselling, and one-on-one career and employment supports at both sites. 

Ryan will be available for student advising: 

• Henlow building (Room 101.11): Monday, Wednesday, Friday 

• Pembina building (Room 107): Tuesday and Thursday 

David will be based in the Pembina building  in Room 122.2 and will be available to meet students at the Henlow building for one-on-one career and employment conversations by appointment. 

Student Counselling Services 

MITT student counselling services will continue to be provided by our counsellor, Nedu, who will be available on the following schedule: 

• Henlow building (Room 101.12): Tuesday, Thursday 

• Pembina building (Room 107): Wednesday, Friday 

Indigenous Support Services  

At SWC, RRC Polytech students can access Indigenous Support Services through the Aazhogan Centre (Indigenous Support Centre) located at 101.15 in the Henlow building. This smudge-friendly space is open to all students and staff and serves as a welcoming place to connect with Indigenous supports. An Indigenous support team member will be based in the adjoining office from Monday to Friday to support students and help them connect with the appropriate resource or person.  

Phyllis Crow, Knowledge Keeper, will be available at SWC on Fridays, and efforts are underway to expand on-site access to Elders and Knowledge Keepers throughout the week.  

Sports, Recreation and Wellness Services  

Campus Well-Being events and activities will be planned at the SWC. A schedule will be shared on a monthly basis and will also be available at rrc.ca/well-being. 

Students can access sport, recreation and wellness activities and facilities at the Notre Dame Campus (NDC) and Exchange District Campus (EDC), including gym facilities, fitness classes, intramural sports, and drop-in gymnasium use with access to a variety of sports equipment.  

To access the Loft Fitness Centre at the North Gym (NDC) and the Fitness Centre at the Roblin Building (EDC), just present your student ID card at the front desk.  

Laptop Loaner Program (MITT Students, only) 

MITT’s laptop loaner program will continue to be available to MITT students. This program is designed to provide temporary access to laptops for students who require a short-term replacement if their own laptop needs repairs or replacing.  

To submit a request for a loaner laptop, contact studentservices@mitt.ca to schedule an appointment.  

Students’ Association Events  

Students at the SWC can participate in RRC Polytech Students’ Association events taking place on campus, starting with the SWC Welcome Back Party on September 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in The Deltas at the Henlow building.  

Campus Hours and Access 

 As an update to information previously shared, a reminder that the current open hours at SWC are: 

• South Winnipeg Campus buildings at Henlow, Fultz and Pembina are open Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Staff, students and faculty may remain on site until 10:00 p.m., with Security using the period from 10:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. to secure the facilities. 

• If you need to access the campus after 8:00 p.m., please enter through the main entrance at 130 Henlow (facing Kenaston) for both the Henlow and Fultz buildings. For the Pembina campus, please use the main entrance doors. 

• If Security is temporarily unavailable while conducting a patrol, please contact 204-632-2323 for assistance.  

Weekend hours: 

Weekend access at Henlow, Fultz and Pembina is from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Security will begin securing the buildings at 3:30 p.m. and will complete the process by 4:00 p.m. Staff working on campus during these hours are asked to notify Security before departing. 

Food Services  

As part of the South Winnipeg Campus integration of services, beginning next week, RRC Polytech will oversee delivery of food services for the South Winnipeg Campus, including catering, vending, public use, microwaves, and event-related expectations. The focus for fall 2026 is service continuity, clear points of contact, and practical support for staff and students while specific details continue to be confirmed. 

Cafeteria 

The Bridge Café, located in the Henlow building (Room 158), will be operated by Dexterra Food Services. It’s a public space available to staff, students, and external guests. Hours of operation and service details are being finalized and will be shared in a future update. 

Microwaves and Shared Food Spaces 

Public microwaves for students are available in the Bridge Café in the Henlow building and in the lunchrooms in the Pembina and Fultz buildings. If a public microwave is not functioning or requires cleaning, contact rrcfoodservices@rrc.ca. 

Safety Services at the South Winnipeg Campus 

MITT and RRC Polytech share a strong commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of all students, staff, and campus visitors. Safety remains a top priority for both institutions. As you prepare to begin your studies at South Winnipeg Campus (SWC), we want to share important information about the safety and health services and resources available to support you throughout your time at RRC Polytech.  

RRC Polytech’s Safety and Health team provides safety services across the South Winnipeg Campus (Henlow, Fultz and Pembina buildings), helping ensure students have access to safe learning environments, safety resources, and support when needed. 

RRC Polytech will have a dedicated Safety and Health Officer (SHO) who will provide support at the South Winnipeg Campus buildings. They will be stationed at Henlow and will be available to provide support and services to the Fultz and Pembina buildings. Staff or students at SWC can reach out to safety@rrc.ca to connect with the team with any questions or concerns. 

Respiratory Fit Testing Program 

Students in the welding program are required to wear respiratory protection while participating in practical learning activities. Students who require respiratory protection will receive information from their program about respirator fit testing requirements and how to book an appointment. 

Respirator fit testing is conducted on campus by RRC Polytech Safety and Health Officers and Technicians. If you have previously completed a fit test in the last two years, please bring your fit test records and respirator to your appointment. 

The cost of a respirator fit test is $164 for students and is due at the time of your appointment. 

For more information about fit testing or to book an appointment, contact safety@rrc.ca. 

Safety Policies and Resources 

All students learning at the South Winnipeg Campus are expected to follow RRC Polytech’s safety policies and procedures. These policies meet or exceed Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health requirements and help ensure a safe and consistent learning experience across all campuses. 

Students can access RRC Polytech safety policies and procedures through Schedule E. You can also use the following resources to: 

• Report a Hazard 

• Report an Incident 

• Request an Ergonomic Assessment 

If you have questions about safety services or need assistance, please contact safety@rrc.ca. 

Student ID cards at SWC 

The Student Support Centre at SWC will be located at 101.1 Henlow Campus and students can begin visiting this location for Student ID cards and other support beginning on Monday, August 24. 

Students can also access these services at the Notre Dame Campus and Exchange District Campuses. 

Student Printing

Xerox printers are currently being installed and will be configured similarly to other RRC Polytech campuses. Students and staff will be able to use these printers after adding them to their device and authenticating with their RRC Polytech credentials (email and password) or by swiping their RRC Polytech-issued ID card at the machine. View the instructions for adding a printer.

MITT students and staff will continue to have access to the Kyocera printers currently located at the South Winnipeg Campus. Some of the Kyocera printers may be relocated or removed due to operational or space requirements.

Parking

RRC Polytech is providing advance notice of parking changes at South Winnipeg Campus (SWC) that will take place between Fall 2026 and January 2027.  

Parking operations at SWC have transitioned to RRC Polytech. For the Fall 2026 term, the existing staff and student parking fees and practices will remain in place for all current and new students.

SWC students who require parking for the fall, including RRC Polytech and MITT students, should email parking@rrc.ca for enrollment instructions. 

For casual daily parking, please use the Hangtag app.

Upcoming change: Effective January 1, 2027, parking rates will be increased from $25/month to $70/month to align with rates and a consistent approach for the parking programs RRC Polytech operates.

For any parking-related questions, please email parking@rrc.ca.

Wi-Fi Network

For the fall term, RRC Polytech staff, faculty and students will access the RRC Polytech Wireless Network by entering their credentials (Polytech email and password).

Locker Rentals

Due to an unexpected delay from the manufacturer in delivering the combination locks, locker rentals are not yet available for the South Winnipeg Campus. We now expect lockers will be available for in-store and online rentals beginning Tuesday, August 25. 

Locker rentals for all incoming RRC Polytech South Winnipeg Campus, Exchange District Campus (EDC) or Notre Dame Campus (NDC) students are available through the online Campus Store, HUB (login required), or by visiting the EDC or NDC Campus Stores in person. For in-person locker rentals, please bring your RRC Polytech student ID card.

Locker rental costs:

• 10-month term – $51
• 4-month term – $31
• 10-week term – $18.50

Update on Program Schedules

We have received questions from students about when they can expect fall schedules to be available in HUB. Academic and Scheduling teams are actively working on finalizing the program schedules and uploading this information as soon as it becomes available. We know how important this information is for students to access, and we appreciate your continued patience as we work to have this information posted as soon as possible.

Textbooks and course materials available at the Campus Store

RRC Polytech has two physical Campus Store locations at the Exchange District and Notre Dame Campuses, and an online store, for textbooks, course materials, branded merchandise and more.

Course material lists for the Fall 2026 Term will begin to be available the week of August 3, by visiting the RRC Polytech Campus Store website – Shop Course Materials page. Because course information is still being finalized with programs, not all material lists will be available immediately. Updates will continue to be posted as information becomes available, so please check back if you do not yet see your course information.

For students attending RRC Polytech’s South Winnipeg Campus this fall, the options for getting your textbooks and course materials include:

• In-person at the Notre Dame Campus Store
• Ordering online with pick-up at the Notre Dame Campus store
• Ordering online with delivery to an address within Winnipeg (shipping costs may apply.)

Visit the online Campus Store ›

Xin (Saxon) Xiang says his confidence soared this spring when he took home gold in Aerospace Technology at the 2026 Skills Canada National Competition. He competed in five projects over the course of a two-day competition, and finished each project with a clean workstation and completed paperwork.

 With a love for tools and hands-on problem-solving, Xiang pursued an education in the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) program at RRC Polytech after coming to Canada from China.

He graduated from the program in April before competing at Skills Canada in May. Competitors received limited information about the projects a month before the two-day event to help them prepare for the upcoming competition – with clues involving a turbine engine, sheet metal, aircraft, component, and electrical wiring interconnection projects.

Xiang says that he highly anticipated the competition and read through all provided documentation to gather as much information as possible. He inferred what the projects could potentially be with what he could reasonably assume, including time limitations and solo completion.

One day before the competition, competitors had the chance to view the tools and equipment available for each project during orientation, which gave Xiang a fuller picture of what kind of projects he could expect. However, only a small subset of the tools displayed were actually needed to complete the tasks, with the rest serving as distractions. For the first project, competitors simulated a daily inspection for landing gear, which raised issues that needed troubleshooting – straightforward and simple.

The second project, Xiang says, was much more difficult. Part of the wing mock-up was damaged, so he consulted diagrams to calculate the requirements for the repair. He used the available tools to cut out the damaged area and construct a patch that sat flush with the surface of the wing mock-up. By the time he finished with cleanup and the paperwork for the repairs, he asked a judge how much time he had left and half an hour remained.

“I was really proud of that project,” Xiang said. “It was really not that easy.”

Following the first day’s projects, Xiang says that he felt much calmer than he did the night before. He credits a phone call with instructor Kevin Hussey with helping him analyze the situation and come up with more ideas about what the next half of the competition would bring.

“I reminded him that the objective of competition itself wasn’t necessarily about winning – I know from experience that it’s a place where people can make connections and get hired,” says Hussey. “It’s more about the experience and meeting other competitors. He took the initiative to read all the literature provided at the competition. Not a lot of other competitors might take the time to take that initiative.”

The second day featured three projects and started strong with a project that surprised Xiang – a PT6 turbine engine hot section inspection.

“I assumed each project could be achieved by one person, but during the pre-competition briefing, the judges mentioned that if we needed help, we could ask for their assistance. I had assumed the projects would be small enough for one person to handle, not expecting that asking for help would even be allowed. It was a complete surprise to find out otherwise — but since I had already read through the full inspection documentation, it was still within the scope of what I’d prepared for. I knew exactly what to do and dove right into it.”

The fourth project presented a defective anti-ice valve of the type used in a Boeing 737’s anti-ice system. Xiang said that while he was still reviewing the diagrams and the manual, the competitor beside him had already begun troubleshooting. However, the time he invested in reading upfront paid off later – his actual troubleshooting process was fast and efficient, allowing him to verify his estimates and identify all the issues with fifteen minutes to spare. For the fifth and final project, Xiang was presented with rigging an aileron– which was a nice and easy project to wrap up the competition.

After he completed the competition, Xiang says that one of the judges approached him and said that it was really enjoyable to watch him work.

“The competition confirmed for me the value of working strictly by the documentation, I believe the results I achieved were a direct result of following the manuals and materials closely. This experience also helped me understand the difference between learning in school and working in industry, where manuals are constantly updated by manufacturers, and staying closely aligned with the latest documentation is essential,” says Xiang.

Christopher Lalonde, AME Instructor, says that the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer program requires adherence not only to academic standards, but the regulatory requirements outlined in the Policy Manual as a Transport Canada Approved Training Organization. Students prepare to become well-rounded practitioners in all aspects of aircraft construction, inspection and maintenance while cultivating an appreciation for the significant responsibility of the aerospace industry.

“Xiang exemplifies these principles,” says Lalonde. “His achievements reflect not only competitive success, but also his development into a respected colleague who has earned the confidence of his instructors. During his time in the program, he consistently demonstrated diligence, a strong work ethic, and a serious approach to his tasks, balanced by a calm and positive demeanor.”

Hussey says that Xiang’s win is very exciting and a great way to promote the AME program in industry, and hopes to raise more support from partners to help more students achieve excellence like Xiang.

Now with a gold medal, Xiang says he’s looking forward to building his portfolio in industry and earning his Aircraft Maintenance Engineer ‘M’ license.

Cassandra (Cassy) Foy grew up helping her dad – a heavy-duty mechanic and “big car person” – in the garage.

“I figured maybe I’d try auto body. So I tried it in high school and I ended up liking it and kept at it,” said Foy.

Foy has worked as a Refinishing Apprentice at ACX St. James for the last three-and-a-half years, while also enrolled in the Collision Repair apprenticeship program at RRC Polytech.

She learned about the Skills Manitoba and Skills Canada competitions from former coworker Ashley Weber, who won gold in car painting at Skills Canada in 2016.

Equipped with industry experience, skills gained through the Collision Repair program, and encouragement from her manager at ACX, Foy first competed in the 2025 Skills Manitoba competition.

In 2025, Foy took home silver medals in car painting at the provincial and national levels.

“Attention to detail is one of Cassandra’s strengths. She would always ask a lot of questions and get clarification on what she needed to do,” said Mark Klimchuk, Collision Repair instructor.

This year, with her manager’s support, she competed again at Skills Manitoba and took home gold, qualifying her for the Skills Canada competition.

Foy’s training and preparation leading up to national Skills competition focused on her biggest challenge – colour tinting and matching. She worked one-on-one with the paint representative at ACX, spent more time spraying in the booth, and, in her words, “kept doing what I do every day.”

“[For paint matching] we use cameras now – they scan the car, and a computer finds the closest colour formula for you. In the competition, they give you a formula, and you have to use a colour chart to adjust it yourself and get as close as possible manually,” noted Foy.

The hours spent perfecting her colour matching skills paid off. Foy not only took home gold in car painting at Skills Canada, but also received the Best of Region distinction, awarded to the competitor with the highest overall score from their province across all competitions.

Reflecting on the highlight of the national Skills competition, Foy said, “Getting the Best of Region award – I didn’t even know it existed. I was really surprised.”

Foy also fondly recalls the opportunity to meet new people and see different trades in action.

“It was interesting seeing how other competitors do things differently. […] Sometimes I’d look over and wonder if they were doing something right, and then second-guess myself. But you just have to trust what you know.”

Right now, Foy is focused on continuing her career at ACX and finishing school. Looking ahead, she has thought about eventually opening her own business.

“My husband is an automotive mechanic, so we’ve talked about opening a dual shop where I handle body and paint and he does mechanical work.”

Congratulations to Cassy Foy on taking home the gold, the Best in Region award, and for representing RRC Polytech on the national stage.

Visit the Skills Canada website to view the complete list of 2026 winners.