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

The gift expands capacity in RRC Polytech’s Introduction to Trades program, in which Indigenous learners can build specialized skills and gain direct entry into the College trades program of their choice.

The gift also supports the creation of a new Navigator position — a role that helps to increase student participation and wrap-around supports.

“RRC Polytech and Qualico share a common vision of building strong communities with a skilled and talented workforce that is diverse and representative. This donation further exemplifies Qualico’s dedication to reconciliation and their efforts in creating equitable environments for everyone to learn and work,” says Fred Meier, President and CEO of  RRC Polytech (shown above, at left).

“Qualico’s support will benefit countless students and will bolster programming in our skilled trades and technologies department, which will in turn help build a stronger industry here in Manitoba.”

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

“This support for RRC Polytech is the next logical step in the strong partnership between our organizations,” says Kevin Van, Qualico’s President and CEO.

“Qualico feels compelled to give back to our community, and working with RRC Polytech is a clear choice because of their commitment to student success and building Manitoba’s infrastructure and economy.”

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

Qualico’s support will also benefit the College’s annual Skilled Trades kickoff event, which connects employers with skilled trades students, establishing important connections for future careers after graduation.

This gift serves to increase work-integrated learning support for the College’s certificate trades programs — Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, and Cabinetry and Woodworking.

“Qualico is proud to work with RRC Polytech and to hire many of their grads, because we know that students graduate equipped with not only the technical skills and experience to take them far, but the cultural competency that will allow them to integrate in our workplace and make a difference in their communities,” says David Eggerman, Qualico Regional Vice-President, Manitoba and Saskatchewan (shown above, second from left).

“Qualico and RRC Polytech both recognize the vital role that tradespeople play in supporting Manitoba’s future, and we’re thrilled that this partnership will support a stronger and more inclusive workforce for the trades in our province.”