Sarah Coyle, an Instructor at RRC Polytech in the Applied Commerce and Management Education program, successfully competed at the World Triathlon Multisport Championships in Pontevedra, Spain in June 2025.

The championships attract 3,500 athletes representing 44 countries. The largest delegations hail from Great Britain, Spain and the United States, with passionate teams ready to chase world titles across a diverse range of disciplines. With a field comprising 69 per cent men and 31 per cent women, the Championships also highlight the increasing diversity of the global multisport community.

“The championships were fantastic overall,” Coyle said. “My goal was to finish strong and see what I was capable of. I achieved that by racing strategically and managing the risks I had, especially during the bike segment of my initial Duathlon—all without overcommitting.”

Coyle showed notable improvement across her age-group events. After securing a 23rd place in the Sprint Duathlon (Run-Bike-Run), she finished 16th in her preferred race, the Aquathlon (Swim-Run).

“I’m incredibly pleased with how I managed my energy throughout the competition, delivering some surprisingly strong run segments,” Coyle added. “My teaching journey at RRC Polytech helped prepare me for and contribute to my achievement on the international stage in many ways.”

Coyle draws a direct parallel between the world of sport and teaching.

“In both the classroom and in sports training, structured planning, long-term goal setting and time management help drive success,” she explained.

“The rapid problem-solving and continuous self-assessment required when teaching a diverse group of students are the exact skills I deploy when dealing with a fast-changing racing environment. Self-discipline and patience are key.”

“I’m grateful for all of the opportunities and camaraderie that working at RRC Polytech has provided to me.”

Following her performance in Spain, Coyle competed in a long-course distance race later this summer, which earned her a qualification spot for the 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

A team of four RRC Polytech Civil Engineering Technology (CET) students made an impressive debut at the GEOWALL student competition during the 2025 GeoManitoba conference, earning third place among undergraduate and graduate teams from across Canada.

The team – made up of Wynter Peterson, Felix Brandt, Phyllis Arent, and Darrion De la Ronde – was tasked with designing and constructing a Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) wall capable of supporting a load of 800 N (approximately 176 lbs). Despite being early in their academic journey and not yet formally trained in MSE wall design, the students took the initiative to study and prepare over the summer, dedicating personal time to learn the theory and practice.

“Over the summer, we went from knowing nothing about MSE walls to knowing enough to build a miniature wall,” said Phyllis Arent. “But as much theory and practice we had, the competition taught us to think on the spot and to roll with the last-minute changes we weren’t expecting. But especially it taught us that working together as a team is not only so rewarding, but a lot of fun.”

Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) walls use alternating layers of soil and specialized reinforcement – usually fabric, plastic, or steel strips – to allow soil to stand at steeper angles and support heavy loads.

In the Geowall competition, RRC Polytech students built a scaled-down version using paper materials, applying real-world soil mechanics principles to test how design choices like reinforcement spacing, wall connections, and soil compaction affect performance. This hands-on experience gave them valuable insight into how these structures behave and fail – knowledge that’s essential for future engineers working with retaining walls and earthworks.

RRC Polytech instructor Steven Harms, who mentored the team, praised their dedication and said participating in competitions like this will give the students additional confidence for their careers.

“The team has been preparing since May. They started by learning the basic theory of MSE walls and spent weekends testing and refining their design. They were also working full-time in summer co-op positions, so their commitment was truly impressive,” said Harms.

The competition, part of the Canadian Geotechnical Society’s annual conference, offered students a chance to engage with industry professionals and peers from across the country.

“It’s a great opportunity to develop technical skills, gain teamwork experience, and build professional networks,” Harms added. “I’m proud of their third-place finish, but even more proud of their dedication and professionalism throughout the journey.”

Arent also credited the polytechnic education model for the team’s success.

“We don’t think we would have been so prepared for the competition without all the hands-on experience we got in the lab. The breaks in-between learning to test our knowledge were really helpful to further our knowledge. The co-op terms RRC Polytech offers are a great opportunity for us to do exactly that. To further our knowledge with hands on experiences, and that was really important to all of us when looking for a place to pursue an education,” she said. “We’re especially grateful to Steven for spending part of his summer teaching us everything we know about MSE walls.”

RRC Polytech’s CET program is a three-year diploma that prepares students for careers in the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects. Students gain a strong foundation in engineering principles, surveying, materials testing, and project management, with a focus on practical, hands-on learning.

Brenda Stoesz, Lisa Vogt, Emilie Jackson, Chris Urbanski

A new book, offering insights from the vocational and polytechnic sector to supporting academic integrity in a changing academic landscape, was launched on October 15 during an event at RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus.

Academic Integrity in Vocational and Polytechnic Education includes 17 chapters written by 34 contributors from Canada and Australia – including four staff from RRC Polytech. Contributors represent faculty, support staff, and educational leaders working in vocational and polytechnic institutions. The book is the first edited volume focused on academic integrity in applied, technical, and trades-based post-secondary education.

The event included a panel discussion moderated by academic support specialist Jackie Jordaan, featuring co-editors Lisa Vogt (Instructor, Construction Management at RRC Polytech) and Brenda Stoesz (University of Manitoba). The panel addressed approaches to promoting academic integrity in vocational and polytechnic contexts.

RRC Polytech contributors Emilie Jackson, Chris Urbanski, and Christine Gray (represented by co-author Lisa Vogt) presented highlights from their chapters. Topics included culturally responsive learning strategies, exploratory meetings in architectural technology, and duty of care in automotive education.

Refreshments were provided by the Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning at the University of Manitoba and RRC Polytech’s Civil Engineering Technology Department.

The book is available as an eBook or Hardcover, and is part of a series called Ethics and Integrity in Educational Contexts.

The Price Institute launches gateway to applied research, innovation, tech transfer and talent for partners in the manufacturing sector – the first of its kind in Manitoba  

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory – the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – As governments, industry and academia work collectively to strengthen Canada’s economy, RRC Polytech’s Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics is proud to launch the Centre for Automation and Manufacturing Technology Transfer (CAMTT) – a vital solution designed to drive technology adoption across the sector while training the workforce of tomorrow.   

Serving as a hub to connect business and industry with applied research, innovation, technology transfer and talent, CAMTT will strengthen our workforce and economy by helping small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Manitoba address productivity through automation, Artificial Intelligence, robotics and mechatronics. By leading collaborative projects as they upskill and reskill in their careers, students at the Price Institute will gain valuable experience solving real-world challenges.  

“The Centre for Automation and Manufacturing Technology Transfer (CAMTT) is a collaborative workspace where industry and academic partners can work together to bridge gaps by accelerating the acquisition and adoption of existing and emerging technology,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Our students will not only be honing their skills by leading applied research projects – their insight, energy and expertise will lead to innovative solutions that support Manitoba businesses in today’s competitive global market.” 

CAMTT is the first of its kind in Manitoba and its new working space can connect faculty, students and partners anywhere in the world. Manufacturers-in-residence will effectively guide teams dedicated to each venture as they experiment to perfect new concepts and processes, under a shared vision.  

An initial success story is already in use on the production line of a local manufacturing leader, and the namesake of the Price Institute. In CAMTT’s inaugural project, a student-led team worked with the Electronics Division of Price Industries to automate a time-consuming manual inspection process. Together, they created a Trainable Automatic Vision System (TAVS) that combines hardware including a camera to capture images of printed circuit boards (PCBs) with trainable software that uses AI to predict and validate if the PCBs pass Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) metrics of production. 

“The students did a great job to get a working test fixture completed, testing accurately and deployed into our production line,” said Mike Nicholson, C.E.T. General Manager, Price Electronics. “We look forward to our next project at CAMTT as we continue integrating components that optimize cost, time, quality, and efficiency.”    

Partners can expect extensive cost-effective collaborative projects that leverage all of RRC Polytech’s research facilities and resources, including funding through the Digital Technology Transformation Initiative, and are positioned for success by maximizing emerging technologies, state-of-the-art equipment and outside-the-box thinking to tackle specific challenges.  

“CAMTT takes an interdisciplinary approach to system, product, and solution development helping manufacturers harness emerging technology to reduce their labor market challenges, while training their future workforce,” said Dr. Vikram Banthia, Director of RRC Polytech’s Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics. “Partner with us to leverage our technology, innovation, expertise, assets and talent and take your project from idea to reality.”  

Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) invests over $795,000 in new applied research infrastructure at the Technology Access Centre for Aerospace and Manufacturing (TACAM)  

For immediate release: October 10, 2025 

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory – the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – RRC Polytech’s leading role in Manitoba’s innovation ecosystem is growing again with new funding announced today by the Government of Canada that will boost applied research capabilities and help support local manufacturers as they transition to Industry 4.0 to build a greener and more efficient tomorrow.  

Created to give researchers the tools they need to think big and innovate, the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) has awarded RRC Polytech’s Technology Access Centre for Aerospace & Manufacturing (TACAM) a $795,443 grant through its College fund, for research infrastructure to advance green manufacturing, automation, and sustainability.  

RRC Polytech has also received an additional $238,633 through the CFI Infrastructure Operating Fund (IOF) to support the ongoing operation of this advanced research infrastructure. 

The funds were awarded to RRC Polytech’s Research, Partnerships and Innovation (RPI) department – the Polytech’s gateway to industry partnerships. 

“This strategic investment helps RRC Polytech move faster in modernizing aerospace and manufacturing, making them more digital and environmentally friendly,” said Janfizza Bukhari, Director of TACAM at RRC Polytech. “It will also build stronger partnerships with industry and support local businesses, especially SMEs, save costs, improve quality, and meet the growing need for greener manufacturing solutions.” 

TACAM is using its latest CFI funding to develop a large-format hybrid manufacturing system that combines 3D printing and machining. It will enable the production of large tooling components such as patterns, molds, and trimming fixtures with minimal material waste. Additionally, expanded heat treatment capabilities for metal additive manufacturing will enhance the prototyping of stress-relieved parts, improving the durability, functionality, and sustainability of manufactured components.  

CFI’s funding model is designed to foster collaboration as institutions must secure the remaining funds through partnerships with provincial and territorial governments, industry and other public, private and not-for-profit organizations. Dimatec Inc. and the National Research Council’s Aerospace Manufacturing Technologies Centre (AMTC) in Montreal are partnering on the total project cost of $1,988,608. 

“This investment by the Government of Canada through the Canada Foundation for Innovation is driving discoveries in areas that matter most to Canada,” said Sylvain Charbonneau, CFI President and CEO, in a government news release. “By equipping universities and colleges with cutting edge research tools and labs that underpin innovation, we help ensure Canada remains secure, productive and globally competitive.” 

RRC Polytech is one of 63 post-secondary institutions across the country, sharing in CFI’s total investment of nearly $134 million to support research infrastructure projects that help propel innovation and build a resilient Canada in a time of intense international competition.   

Through this national initiative, CFI is helping to attract and retain the world’s top talent, train the next generation of researchers, support private-sector innovation and create high-quality jobs that strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life for all Canadians. 

About the Canada Foundation for Innovation 

With a bold, future-looking mandate, the Canada Foundation for Innovation equips researchers to be global leaders in their field and to respond to emerging challenges. Our investments in state-of-the-art tools, instruments and facilities at universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions underpin both curiosity- and mission-driven research that cuts across disciplines and bridges all sectors. The research infrastructure we fund mobilizes knowledge, spurs innovation and commercialization, and empowers the talented minds of a new generation. 

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis Nation –  This evening, 161 nursing graduates from RRC Polytech will be officially welcomed into the profession during the annual pinning ceremony. To reach this point, students have completed the 32-month Bachelor of Nursing program, including a 450-hour senior practicum.  

“Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, and in today’s world – where resilience, empathy, and adaptability are more important than ever – the role they play is vital. This graduating class has shown remarkable dedication, not only in their studies but in their commitment to serving communities across the province, including rural and remote areas. I have no doubt they will make a lasting impact on the lives of Manitobans and help strengthen the future of healthcare in our province,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO of RRC Polytech. 

The pins will be presented by instructors, with representatives from the Manitoba Government, the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba, and the Association of Regulated Nurses of Manitoba in attendance. 

“The pinning ceremony is more than a celebration, it’s a powerful reminder of the dedication, compassion, and resilience that nurses bring to our healthcare system every single day. The Class of 2025 represents the future of health care in Manitoba. I am so proud of each graduate who has chosen this path of service. Many of you have already made an impact in communities across our province, including rural and remote areas, and we know you’ll continue to do so. Our government is committed to supporting nurses and strengthening our healthcare system, because when we invest in you, we’re investing in the health and wellbeing of all Manitobans,” said Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training for the Province of Manitoba. 

There is a high demand for nurses in Manitoba, and nursing graduates often obtain a job in their area of choice. 

“Behind every health-care story in Manitoba is a nurse, someone who listens, advocates, and delivers care when people need it most,” said Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care. “This year’s RRC Polytech graduates are entering the profession at a pivotal time, as thousands of new health-care professionals join the workforce. Their skills and compassion are helping strengthen care teams, reduce wait times, and ensure Manitobans can get care close to home, from Winnipeg to our most rural and northern communities. I thank them for choosing this calling and know they will have rewarding careers.” 

Despite challenges posed by wildfires this past spring and summer, which led to the early return of one student from Pimicikamak Cree Nation and the cancellation of a placement in The Pas due to a provincial state of emergency, RRC Polytech students continued to show resilience and commitment through their practicum placements, expanding on the professionalism and training learned and practiced in the classroom.  

This year’s ceremony also marks the first graduating class to benefit from RRC Polytech’s new Interdisciplinary Health and Community Services Simulation Centre, launched in January 2025. The Sim Centre has enriched student learning by offering realistic, hands-on scenarios that prepare future nurses to thrive in today’s healthcare system. 

“The addition of our new Simulation Centre has elevated the quality of training at RRC Polytech even further – giving students the opportunity to practice complex scenarios in a safe, realistic environment. It’s helping them build confidence, sharpen clinical judgment, and prepare to thrive in today’s fast-paced healthcare system. We’re proud to see how this investment in simulation is already making a difference in the lives of our students and the patients they’ll care for across the province,” said Lesley McGuirk, Associate Dean of Nursing at RRC Polytech. 

A nursing pin is a badge worn by nurses to identify the nursing school from which they graduated. They are traditionally presented to newly graduated nurses by faculty at a pinning ceremony as a symbolic welcome into the profession.  

Kiara Carpenter pursued the Bachelor of Nursing Program at RRC Polytech because she was drawn to a career where she can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and is one of the graduates receiving her pin this evening.   

“Receiving my nursing pin feels so special — it’s a moment I’ve looked forward to since the very beginning of the program. It represents not just the hard work and long hours, but also the growth, connections, and moments that shaped me into the nurse I’ve become. My practicums have given me the confidence, skills, and compassion to step into this next chapter, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everyone who has supported me along the way,” she said.  

Another recent graduate, Brooke Allen, entered the program with the goal of working with children – and has now successfully been hired as a pediatric nurse. 

“The nursing program at Red River was very special to me because it gave me a sense of community in which I felt welcomed, supported, and encouraged to be the best version of myself. Parts of me will forever miss walking into those 8 am classes, coffee in hand, catching up with friends before diving into lectures led by some of the best instructors. Receiving the nursing pin this week truly feels special to me, and I feel honoured to be entering the workforce as a nurse. People are trusting you with the care of their loved ones, which is no small responsibility, and I do not take that lightly. I hope to exceed the expectations and beyond that, I hope to make a difference in people’s care that they receive,” said Allen. 

More information can be found on the RRC Polytech website. 

The following message was sent to All Staff and Students on behalf of the Executive Leadership team: 

This message includes content that may trigger strong emotions, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that we all check in with ourselves and access the resources available to us to ensure we are taking good care of our mental health. Access mental health and self-care resources here. 

Tomorrow, October 4, is the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit People (MMIWG2S). The flags on RRC Polytech Campuses are lowered today and tomorrow as the community observes this important day. 

This day comes just four days after the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a reminder that real change requires more than awareness – it demands shifts in attitudes, institutions, and policies so that racism is dismantled and equity becomes the standard.  

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two Spirit People is a movement that illustrates the racist legacy of Canada’s justice system and the policies and attitudes that lead to the circumstances in which Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit people are at risk of being murdered or going missing. 

The Day of Action for MMIWG2S is a recognition that Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit People must be afforded the same safety, security, and justice that all people deserve. 

Families and communities across Turtle Island continue to grieve the loss of loved ones – including the families of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois, and Ashley Shingoose. Ashley is now known as Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe, a name she was given before her identification and the name her family wishes her to be remembered by. 

In 2019, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls published the final report, Reclaiming Power and Place, which asserts 231 Calls to Justice that address issues that accumulate into dangerous situations. The Final Report draws on the testimonies of over 2,380 family members, survivors of violence, experts, and Knowledge Keepers collected through two years of nationwide hearings and evidence gathering. 

Call to Justice 11.1. addresses all educators and educational institutions to educate and provide awareness to the public about missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people, and about the issues and root causes of violence they experience. 

Because of the violence Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit People face and the historic lack of response from the justice system, many Indigenous families are hesitant to send their young women and Two Spirit relatives away from home to pursue higher education. This absence of safety and feeling secure creates a significant barrier to post-secondary opportunities. At RRC Polytech, we have a responsibility to acknowledge these realities and raise awareness. By doing so, we can foster a learning and working environment where community members feel safer, supported, and understood. 

In 2023, RRC Polytech and the Campus Store partnered with Métis artist Shayre Curé to create an original design for a Red Shirt for MMIWG2S, the proceeds of which go to the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award for Indigenous students. The bursary, valued at $1,000, aims to alleviate some financial stress for Indigenous students. The shirts are produced and ordered through Red Rebel Armour, owned and operated by RRC Polytech alum Sean Rayland-Boubar. 

This October 4, we encourage you to view resources available through the Library, including the Library Guide, films like Felicia Solomon’s Story, and Tina Fontaine: A Murdered Girl’s Legacy from CBC Curio; and films through the National Film Board like Finding Dawn, The Red Dress, and this river.  

The Government of Canada’s National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls always has free resources available, including direct access to the Final Report itself.  

Many Indigenous organizations have additional programs that support the National Inquiry and education on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit People like the Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc. MMIWG2S and Violence Prevention.  

We also acknowledge that this observance may be emotionally taxing, especially for Indigenous students and employees. Please remember that outside of formal events in which they agree to participate, Indigenous community members may decline discussing this observance because of its emotional and cultural impact.  

Thank you, 

Fred Meier, President and CEO 

Dr. Christine Watson, Vice President Academic

Jamie Wilson,  Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development

Giselle Martel, Vice President, Finance and Administration

Melanie Gudmundson,  Chief Human Resource Officer

David Petis,  Executive Director, Advancement

New collaborative program launches to strengthen Indigenous businesses, knowledge, innovation and community in Manitoba

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory – the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah (Mittohnee)’s mission to bring more, local, Indigenous business ideas to life has begun with the launch of its inaugural four-month entrepreneurship program and celebration of its first ever cohort of determined entrepreneurs.  

Mittohnee is RRC Polytech’s business accelerator and incubator initiative – created by and for Indigenous entrepreneurs – to help aspiring and established business leaders build the necessary networks and access the support and training required for increasing the success of any new or existing venture.  

“By creating access, breaking down barriers, and ensuring Indigenous entrepreneurs have the tools to succeed here in Manitoba, Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah is opening new economic doors,” says Jamie Wilson, VP, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development at RRC Polytech. “Whether it’s progressing a student’s idea from concept to reality or supporting an established Indigenous entrepreneur and/or band-operated business to pivot, scale up, or explore new partnerships, Mittohnee will transform experiential learning, innovation, and entrepreneurship into real business opportunities for Indigenous communities.” 

The name Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah comes from a Neynowaywin (Cree) expression that means ‘If you are going to do it, do it right. If you don’t know how to do it right, learn how.’   

Made possible by the power of partnership – between RRC Polytech, federal and provincial governments, and generous corporate partners, TD Bank Group and Canada Life, Mittohnee is a true collaboration and the first of its kind in Manitoba. As one of three Indigenous incubators in the Labs4 national network, it offers additional connections to the innovation ecosystem across the country.    

Mittohnee’s inaugural four-month entrepreneurship program will feature mentorship through an entrepreneur-in-residence, training workshops, networking events, opportunities to connect with other business leaders and even student competitions. Director, Amy Jackson, a proud member of Opaskwayak Cree Nation, dedicated community connector and entrepreneur who founded a successful venture called Nativelovenotes during the pandemic, has tailored the program for maximum impact. 

“From resources and connections to dedicated space for entrepreneurs to collaborate and grow their ideas, we provide everything they need in a really supportive environment,” explains Jackson. “When we help entrepreneurs succeed, they create jobs, build stronger communities, and inspire the next generation. The ripple effect is powerful.” 

Mittohnee is a natural but significant extension of RRC Polytech’s commitment to supporting Indigenous Peoples and communities. It will also benefit the students graduating from the Social Innovation and Community Development program in the School of Indigenous Education, who may wish to continue the pursuit of their project concepts.  

“These students, who know and understand their communities and the challenges they face, now have the resources to build on their education, take their ideas and solutions and create a business that moves their vision forward,” says Jackson. 

A total of thirteen entrepreneurs of First Nations and Métis descent, each with their own dream, idea or business-in-progress make up the initial cohort. In addition to their proud heritage, what they share is an eagerness to put in the work to learn, grow and succeed.  

Among them is Darion Ducharme. The award-winning founder of Teqare, an Indigenous-owned education and technology training company empowering youth, adults, elders, and organizations with hands-on workshops in cyber safety, scam prevention, financial literacy, digital literacy, and city life skills. He is already a passionate role model making a difference and can’t wait to take his story to the next level and continue to inspire positive change.   

“Teqare’s success, while amazing, has forced us to evolve from dealing with small scale numbers and assets to much larger and complicated transactions,” says Ducharme. “I see the training and mentorship through Mittohnee really helping me to manage business finances better to ensure return on investment and improve areas like proposal writing that will allow our company to grow and thrive.”  

The launch celebration includes a culturally grounded ceremony, a motivational panel discussion and feast at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae on the Exchange District Campus. Details that Ducharme says are important to continue building trust with Indigenous communities and that like the word Mittohnee itself, remind everyone that entrepreneurship is not just about ideas, but about how you approach the work.        

“This is a safe space where everyone makes you feel welcome, cared for, and valued,” says Ducharme. “I believe Mittohnee will help us create a culture of people who come together to do what they are called to do. I can’t wait to get started!” 

For more information or to join the next cohort, please email: mittohnee@rrc.ca 

The following message was sent to All Staff and Students by Carla Kematch, Director, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement:

The following message includes content that may trigger strong emotions, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that we all check in on ourselves and access the resources available to us to ensure we are taking good care of our mental health. Access mental health and self-care resources here. 

Tomorrow, September 30th, is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which grew from the Indigenous-led grassroots movement, Orange Shirt Day: Every Child Matters. The flags on RRC Polytech Campuses are lowered today and tomorrow as RRC Polytech observes Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 

We were fortunate this year to welcome Phyllis Webstad for a virtual keynote to launch Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement week. Phyllis’s story became the catalyst for Orange Shirt Day in 2013 when she founded the Orange Shirt Society, and later for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation when the Canadian government ratified it as a statutory holiday in 2021.  

Despite its status, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not just another holiday – it’s an opportunity to take a moment from our typical routines to reflect and learn. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation brings to light everything that was taken from Indigenous Peoples through the horrific history of the Canadian Residential School System – culture and traditions, family, language, and sovereignty.  

This year, the annual RRC Polytech Orange Shirt was designed by Nursing student Dasia Chatkana and produced by local business Dreamcatcher Promotions. The design honours the bravery of children that escaped Residential Schools – many of whom risked capture or exposure to the elements. The Orange Shirt proceeds go to the Mínwastánikéwin Truth and Reconciliation Award for Indigenous students every year to contribute to financial reconciliation – and you can support the award by purchasing your orange shirt at the Campus Store.  

Throughout the week, we saw many thought-provoking engagement sessions led by internal leaders and community partners. Miigwech to everyone who took the time to participate in events, and especially those who have led the sessions this week. We recognize the emotional labour and vulnerability of sharing your stories and lived experiences.   

On Friday, Sept. 19, Steinbach hosted a community honour walk and featured keynote presentations from Residential School Survivors, live cultural performances and educational displays. Russ Mason, a Business Administration student at RRC Polytech, was among the organizers for this trailblazing event. 

Today, students in Culinary Skills (Indigenous) are working hard to make bison stew and bannock for the Buffalo Ceremony hosted by Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin and N’Dinawemak, where Survivors and their families are being honoured in the community. 

As a post-secondary educational institution, Truth and Reconciliation is more than creating equal opportunities for Indigenous learners – it is also about ensuring the communities we serve learn the full and often-overlooked histories of this land. By centering the voices of Indigenous scholars, historians, and Knowledge Keepers, we help bring forward truths that were too long excluded from western textbooks and invite reflection on what those truths mean for us today. Observing and honouring the intent of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and extending these learning opportunities throughout the year, strengthens our commitment to building a campus community that is safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all. 

Please note that RRC Polytech campuses are closed tomorrow, September 30. I hope that you were able to find some opportunities this week to engage, reflect, and connect in preparation for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Everyone starts somewhere – this is a lifelong journey that everyone is encouraged to join. Tomorrow is also an opportunity in itself to attend community events, participate in Ceremony, read or watch, sit and reflect.  

Take good care of yourself and those around you and remember to reach out for support. 

Carla Kematch  | Director, Truth and  Reconciliation and Community Engagement
Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development

Beginning October 1, 2025 the City of Winnipeg will be extending street parking time limits on designated streets around RRC Polytech’s Exchange District Campus (EDC) as part of a pilot project.

Staff and Students who rely on personal vehicles to get to EDC will now be able to park for up to three hours, and a 30 minute extension if needed, on the following streets:

• Adelaide Street, east side – from William Avenue to Elgin Avenue
• Adelaide Street, west side – from Elgin Avenue to William Avenue
• Princess Street, west side – from Elgin Avenue to William Avenue

Signage will be installed this week and the PayByPhone App will be updated prior to the October 1 start date.

The City will also trialing the new time limits near the Centennial Concert Hall, Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre and the Manitoba Museum.

The trial will run for a period of one-year.