News

RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) has launched an innovative learning initiative that connects newcomer students with the stories, experiences and histories of Indigenous Peoples through a series of video-based learning modules developed in collaboration with Indigenous Grandparents and members of the Knowledge Keepers Council.

The project, which began with a classroom visit and a simple idea to share one Grandparent’s story, has grown into a comprehensive 20-hour learning resource that introduces newcomers to Indigenous histories, cultures and perspectives through the voices of people with lived experience.

“Many newcomer students arrive in Canada with little knowledge of Indigenous Peoples,” says Maxine Fehr, a language training instructor at CNI.

“These modules create an opportunity for learners to hear directly from Indigenous Grandparents and Knowledge Keepers, which will help build understanding, challenge assumptions and create meaningful connections.”

Contributors to the project include Kookum Betsy Kematch, Elder-in-Residence Paul Guimond, and members of the Knowledge Keepers Council at RRC Polytech: Albert McLeod, Allen Sutherland, Barbara Bruce, Belinda Vandenbroeck (shown above) and Helen Robinson-Settee.

Through personal stories, family histories, photographs and cultural teachings, contributors shared perspectives on community, resilience, identity and the lasting impacts of colonization. Some stories reach back multiple generations to the grandparents of grandparents, offering newcomers a deeper understanding of the histories that continue to shape Indigenous communities today. Read More →

RRC Polytech has been recognized as a leading institution for sustainability, earning the top spot in its category in the 2026 Sustainable Campus Index (SCI), published by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE).

The annual SCI highlights top-performing post-secondary institutions based on results from AASHE’s Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS), the world’s leading framework for measuring sustainability performance in higher education.

RRC Polytech was ranked the #1 Overall Top Performer among Associate and Short-Cycle Institutions reporting under STARS 3.0, achieving the highest score in that category in the 2026 SCI.

“This recognition demonstrates that sustainability is embedded throughout RRC Polytech – it’s an institution-wide achievement,” says Giselle Martel, Vice-President, Finance and Administration at RRC Polytech.

“Ranking first in our category under STARS 3.0 is a tremendous accomplishment and reflects the dedication of people across our community who are advancing sustainability through teaching, learning, research, operations and community engagement every day.”

The recognition builds on RRC Polytech’s strong sustainability performance, following its achievement of STARS Gold status in 2025.

Submitted every three years, STARS helps post-secondary institutions evaluate and advance their performance across the environmental, social and economic dimensions of sustainability. Achieving Gold status reflects a collaborative, campus-wide commitment to embedding sustainability into academics, operations, engagement, planning and innovation. Read More →

RRC Polytech is launching two new degree programs in Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics.

These broadened learning experiences include a foundation in research methods, Indigenous worldviews and Industry 4.0 technologies to equip graduates with the skills and confidence to take on increasing responsibility in the workplace.

The move creates even more options for learners to meet growing workforce demands in key Manitoba industries, and to accelerate their education and advance their careers. The Bachelor of Technology degrees are hosted by the Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics.

Through a flexible two- plus one-year degree-completion model, learners can build on their existing technical training, such as an engineering technology diploma, and earn a bachelor’s degree in as little as one additional year. Full- and part-time completion options support the scheduling demands of working professionals looking to obtain a degree relevant to their field.

“RRC Polytech has a long history of delivering high-quality applied education that responds directly to labour market needs,” says Fred Meier, RRC Polytech President and CEO.

“Diversifying our program offerings with these new degrees provides options for existing students, graduates and mid-career professionals to access the applied and experiential learning that are sought after by industry and hallmarks of a polytechnic education. This is another important step on the path of responsive workforce development we’re building at RRC Polytech.”

The flexible structure of RRC Polytech’s bachelor’s degree model allows learners to earn while they learn, upskill during their career by building on prior education and experience, and progress seamlessly from technical training to degree-level study.

This new model responds to growing demand for post-secondary qualifications in Manitoba’s labour market, as nearly 70 per cent of all job openings between 2025 and 2029 will require some form of post-secondary education. It also provides learners with another option along the continuum of engineering technology and engineering education provided by RRC Polytech and partners such as the University of Manitoba. Read More →

RRC Polytech is hosting its eighth annual Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement Week to mark the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, on Wed., Sept. 30.

While Truth and Reconciliation is a year-round commitment for RRC Polytech, this week is a focal point that aims to deepen understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures and perspectives while encouraging meaningful action toward reconciliation through a series of presentations, workshops, cultural teachings and immersive experiences.

“Truth and Reconciliation is an ongoing process of learning and integrating new information, disentangling ourselves from misinformation and unlearning what we think we know, and opening ourselves to truths that might surprise or challenge us,” says Carla Kematch, Director, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement.

“Every session we host this week is something that each participant can take back to the classroom, to the workplace and to their personal lives, so they can continue the lifelong journey of learning today into the future as we work towards building a better future for all Canadians.”

Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement Week began yesterday with a special Author’s Talk with former Manitoba MLA and community leader Kevin Chief, who discussed his new memoir With a Name Like Chief: Reflections on Recovery and Identity Through the Seven Sacred Teachings at the Roundhouse Auditorium in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae.

RRC Polytech is also launching the immersive anti-racism experience How the Dog Learned to Dance, created in partnership with its Emerging Media Production and Truth and Reconciliation and Community Development departments, as well as Ininew artist Heather Endall and Swampy Cree author Michael Hutchinson.

Sessions scheduled throughout the week include Anishinaabemowin language workshops with instructor Corey Whitford, explorations of traditional cedar teachings for wellness and balance, hands-on cultural learning opportunities with Knowledge Keeper Richard — including buffalo hide tanning and scraping and buffalo skull cleaning — and a closing keynote address by former Assembly of First Nations National Chief Ovide Mercredi, focusing on leadership and the ongoing work of removing barriers to Indigenous student success in post-secondary education. Read More →

As part of its role in strengthening Manitoba’s contribution to Canada’s growing defence and industrial capacity, RRC Polytech has been tapped to lead a new initiative providing Manitoba businesses with practical support to prepare for work in the defence sector.

Through a new $3.2-million investment from Prairies Economic Development Canada through the Regional Defence Investment Initiative, RRC Polytech will establish the Manitoba Defence and Dual-Use Innovation Bridge, a two-year collaboration with Manitoba Aerospace Inc. and Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters.

The initiative aims to help local businesses harness their existing expertise and capacity in aerospace, advanced manufacturing and technology, by reducing barriers to entering defence supply chains, including complex procurement processes and demanding cybersecurity and certification requirements.

Supports include helping companies understand government purchasing requirements, strengthen cybersecurity, meet security rules for handling controlled goods and technology, and prepare to participate in defence contracts.

Businesses will also receive support to identify dual-use technology. The initiative will help connect companies with larger defence businesses, government buyers and other potential customers, giving them a clearer path to new contracts and supply-chain opportunities.

“We are thrilled by PrairiesCan’s investment in Manitoba’s innovation and defence ecosystem,” says Dr. Jolen Galaugher, RRC Polytech’s Associate Vice-President, Research Partnerships & Innovation (RPI).

“By combining our applied research capabilities with the expertise of our partners at Manitoba Aerospace and Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, we are creating an accelerated pathway from innovation to commercialization and market growth. Read More →

The Manitoba government will invest $146,000 in new American Sign Language (ASL) training opportunities for Indigenous women through a partnership with RRC Polytech, it was announced yesterday.

Provided through the province’s Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag (All Women Doing Well) Strategy, the funding includes $18,000 for the development and delivery of three ASL micro-credentials on reserve and $138,000 over three years to fund four reserved seats for Indigenous women in RRC Polytech’s ASL-English Interpretation program.

Seats will be fully funded and will include tuition, books, fees and access to wraparound student supports.

“This important partnership … reflects our shared commitment to creating more inclusive communities and expanding educational opportunities for Indigenous learners,” says RRC Polytech President Fred Meier.

“By increasing access to ASL education through new micro-credentials and fully funded seats in our ASL-English Interpretation program, we are helping to remove barriers, strengthen representation in the profession and build capacity to support Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in Indigenous communities across Manitoba.”

The partnership was announced yesterday at RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus by provincial Families Minister Nahanni Fontaine, who noted the new micro-credentials will provide an introduction to ASL and Deaf culture and will be equivalent to ASL 1, a prerequisite for entry into the ASL-English Interpretation program.

Training will be delivered in community to help reduce barriers to participation, and will accommodate up to 15 learners per cohort. The curriculum will incorporate Indigenous perspectives and approaches, and be developed in partnership with Indigenous communities to ensure training reflects local needs and experiences. Read More →

RRC Polytech welcomed the first cohort of students to its South Winnipeg Campus today, marking a strong start to the academic year at all nine campuses across Manitoba.

While admissions continue and final enrolment figures are still being confirmed, early indicators point to a strong year for RRC Polytech. Preliminary reports show domestic enrolment is up three per cent compared with this time last fall, reflecting strong demand for applied learning and skills training across Manitoba.

Interest remains particularly strong in areas critical to Manitoba’s economy, including cybersecurity, skilled trades and health-care programs, which help prepare more learners for rewarding careers in some of the province’s most in-demand sectors.

“As Canadians enter an era of growth and building for the future, RRC Polytech is well positioned to provide the education and training that students want and the workforce needs,” said RRC Polytech President Fred Meier.

“Our program offerings have always been a reflection of the critical needs in Manitoba and across Canada, and students will develop the skills and experience to immediately enter roles that will make an impact and support people and communities across our province.” Read More →

Three outstanding Manitobans are the latest recipients of RRC Polytech’s Honorary Diploma: acclaimed creative leader and former politician Tina Keeper and respected automotive industry champions Don and Joyce Sobering.

Keeper and the Soberings were awarded their diplomas at the Spring 2026 Convocation ceremonies held last week at the RBC Convention Centre. The diplomas are awarded to individuals who demonstrate high standards of excellence in their personal and professional achievements, and whose involvement in the community is widely recognized.

“This year’s Honorary Diploma recipients represent very distinct fields, yet they are connected by a common drive to improve their communities through a deep passion and dedication to their work,” said RRC Polytech President Fred Meier.

“The values that Don and Joyce Sobering and Tina Keeper bring to their work align with those that drive our mission — learning, respect, integrity and collaboration. This makes them a natural fit.”

Keeper — whose multifaceted career spans film, television and theatre production, as well as acting, advocacy and public service — received the Honorary Diploma in Creative Communications.

“I am beyond honoured and delighted to be accepting this,” said Keeper (shown above). “While I have been actively involved in serving as an advisor on RRC Polytech’s Advisory Committee, this opportunity is truly a wonderfully unexpected surprise. For the institution to recognize my work and efforts through Kistikan Pictures and its impact on the local creative landscape is an extraordinary honour.” Read More →

Tourism in Manitoba is an economic force offering massive opportunities for a new generation of leaders to build dynamic and fulfilling careers.

RRC Polytech’s new Business Administration – Tourism Management program is giving students the opportunity to become those leaders. The program gives students the skills and experiences to join the industry ready to create impact and build experiences, community and the local economy from day one.

National Tourism Week (April 20-24, 2026) highlights the impacts that the tourism industry has both locally and nationally. Manitoba tourism supports over 25,000 jobs and contributes $373 million to provincial tax revenue annually according to the Province of Manitoba and as one of the fastest growing industries globally, students have more opportunities than ever to create impact and help share Manitoba with the world.

Roselle Turenne, an instructor in the program, has worked in tourism for nearly 30 years with experiences spanning from outdoor adventure, major event planning, and destination and business development to entrepreneurship, and education.

“Tourism is big business in our province and what is great about this major is you are never locked into one stagnant career. It is dynamic, challenging, and ever-changing,” Turenne said. “Future grads will help make destinations more competitive and more successful on a global stage.”

Graduates will become leaders in event planning, public programming, destination development and marketing, cultural tourism, attractions, tours and other entrepreneurial ventures.

The program is situated at the Exchange District Campus in the heart of Winnipeg’s historic exchange district, giving students abundant opportunities to explore local tourism offerings and events both in and out of class. Students are just steps away from The Forks, the Sports and Entertainment District, galleries, hotels and world-class museums. These opportunities give them a sense of the wide-range of possible careers and of what working in the industry will be like after graduation. It also helps students know they’ll be equipped with the skills employers are looking for.

“Being a tourist in our own city is the best homework we can assign!” Turenne said.

With project-based assignments and real engagement opportunities, students like Jessica Sinclair are gaining behind-the-scenes knowledge of what goes into local tourism events like the Grey Cup. She says it’s been eye-opening to learn how these events are brought to life and that she experiences events differently now that she knows the work required to make them happen. She’s also happy to have instructors who have “been there” and worked in roles that students like her want to pursue one day.

“Instructors have a passion for what they’re teaching and have actually worked in the fields they’re teaching us about. I feel like this program is going to put me in a great position to start my career once I graduate.”

Sinclair is currently looking forward to a career in events and sports tourism after graduation but she’s inspired by the wide range of opportunities in the tourism industry and is keeping an open mind.

“Winnipeg has so much to offer, and it’s exciting that I’ll be able to contribute to others seeing that too!”

Students gain a foundation in business in their first term of the Business Administration program before moving into the Tourism major in terms two, three and four. The program combines academic learning, industry connections, and hands-on experiences to prepare students for the ever‑changing tourism sector from day one of their careers.

For those looking toward long-term growth, the diploma serves as a launchpad for further academic advancement, including pathways to a degree in tourism.

With visitor spending hitting record-breaking highs in Manitoba (Travel Manitoba, 2025), students who take the Business Administration – Tourism Management program will be at the forefront of bringing new and exciting experiences to visitors and locals alike.

For more information or to apply: https://www.rrc.ca/explore/program/business-administration-tourism-management/

Written by Jennifer Pazdor (Creative Communications, 2019).

Links for reference:

• https://www.gov.mb.ca/looknorth/invest/tourism.html
• https://news.gov.mb.ca/news/index.html?item=68217
• https://industry.travelmanitoba.com/press-releases/agm-2025/#:~:text=Winnipeg%2C%20Manitoba%20%E2%80%93%20November%205%2C,its%20Annual%20General%20Meeting%20today

Potential learners who self-declare as First Nations (Status and Non-Status), Métis or Inuit are now eligible for free application to any RRC Polytech program.

“We know improving access for Indigenous learners and for students from different backgrounds requires multiple forms of support,” says Dr. Christine Watson, Vice-President Academic.

“Waiving the application fee and working directly with Indigenous students and the communities that support them allows us to remove a financial barrier that is faced when individuals begin to think about joining RRC Polytech as a student. This is one step in alleviating additional barriers they may face in their journey from applying to attending.”

The initiative reduces a financial barrier for Indigenous learners and follows two month-long pilot campaigns in 2024 and 2025 that drew more than 400 and 700 applications, respectively.

These results demonstrated the demand for more accessible application pathways, contributing to the decision to make the initiative permanent. Laureen Janzen, Director of Student Support Services, said many Indigenous applicants shared that the initiative helped them feel welcome at RRC Polytech.

“One person said they felt like they won the lottery,” says Janzen. “By making this a year-round initiative, Indigenous applicants can now also take their time to consider program fit, meet with some of our support services on campus and really understand the programs and the admission requirements.”

RRC Polytech recognizes that financial barriers are only one of several challenges some Indigenous learners may face when considering post-secondary. Potential learners can connect with an Indigenous Academic Advisor to help navigate the transition to post-secondary.

Current students can also access support at RRC Polytech’s Indigenous Student Support Centres, where they can participate in events, cultural teachings and ceremonies, or spend time with friends. Read More →