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.”

New programs being delivered at the Polytech’s South Winnipeg Campus include Industrial Mechanic/Millwright, Pharmacy Technician, Hairstyling and others.

“Strong communities are built by investing in people,” said Renée Cable, provincial Minister of Advanced Education and Training.

“RRC Polytech’s new South Winnipeg Campus will expand access to education and training close to home, helping more Manitobans gain the skills they need to succeed.

“This campus will support students as they build meaningful careers, strengthen local workforces and help ensure communities across our province have the talent they need to grow and thrive.”

The South Winnipeg Campus creates an additional access point for learners in south Winnipeg and southern Manitoba. RRC Polytech’s experience delivering programs at regional campuses and through its mobile training labs shows that existing support networks and the ability to study close to home can contribute to positive learning outcomes and program completion.