It began as a conversation between RRC Polytech and industry leader Dr. Gerry Price in Spring 2021 about the increasingly vulnerable state of manufacturing in Manitoba, and his question: how can we work together to advance the sector?

The journey to the answer — spanning two years of deep conversations with industry, government and other stakeholders — sets the stage for today’s announcement of the Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics.

The news is anchored by a $10-million gift from the Price Family Foundation — the largest in RRC Polytech’s history — along with more than $3 million from the federal government and $4.86 million from the province for capital and program development, as well as ongoing operating costs. These three gifts bring the College’s comprehensive campaign, In Front of What’s Ahead, closer to its $60-million goal, with a current total of $51.5 million raised to date.

Today’s $17.86-million investment in the Institute will allow RRC Polytech to bridge critical skills and labour gaps in the sector, spur applied research activities within the sector’s many small-to-medium enterprise (SME) employers and foster an innovation ecosystem where industry-education partnerships shift the technologies disrupting the sector from threats to opportunities.

“As Manitoba’s polytechnic, RRC Polytech is strongly positioned to partner with stakeholders and help usher in a new era of opportunity for one of Manitoba’s most valued economic drivers,” says Fred Meier, RRC Polytech President and CEO. “We are expanding training opportunities and applied research in manufacturing, and it is only possible because of the vision and the commitment of Dr. Gerry Price and the Price Family Foundation, as well as the Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba.”

The Manitoba chapter of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) recently reported that it had 2,130 job vacancies in the third quarter of 2022, citing a shortage of advanced skills that are not currently being trained in the province. The Price Institute will directly respond to the skills shortage by training new workers, and by upskilling and reskilling existing workers.

Scheduled for a phased launch beginning in Fall 2023, the Institute features a range of new programs and firsts for RRC Polytech, including:

• Two post-graduate diplomas (one in advanced manufacturing, one in mechatronics) that boost the annual graduate output of RRC Polytech’s engineering technology programs by 150 per cent.
• A project space to drive innovation and technology transfer in automation and manufacturing for SMEs and facilitate student-led research activities.
• Flexible, micro-credentialing options to upskill and reskill up to 1,000 employees each year, including Western Canada’s first offering of the internationally recognized and accredited Siemens Mechatronics Systems Certification Program (Levels I and II), which kickstarts phase one of the Institute’s launch this fall.
• Manitoba’s first Applied Research Chair in Advanced Manufacturing. Read More →

RRC Polytech’s Program Explorer, a ground-breaking web tool designed to help prospective students, has been honoured with a pair of prestigious awards.

Earlier this week, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) recognized Program Explorer with a 2023 Circle of Excellence Award (Gold) for Best Website, while just over a month ago the Canadian Council for the Advancement of Education (CCAE) awarded it a 2023 Prix d’Excellence (Silver) for Best Website. These accolades reflect the tool’s exceptional quality, innovation and user-centric approach.

The global competition for the Circle of Excellence Award was fierce, with Program Explorer surpassing a number of impressive web projects from renowned institutions around the world. Notable contenders included Boston University in the U.S., England’s Cambridge University, and the University of Toronto, among more than a dozen others.

Despite the formidable competition, Program Explorer secured first place in its category, highlighting the exceptional achievements of the RRC Polytech team.

The resource’s success can be attributed to its user-centric design, which not only fulfils business objectives but also provides a seamless and enriching experience for prospective students. The project received commendation from the judges for its strong internal socialization and buy-in, involving more than 100 stakeholders. This collaboration ensured the tool catered to the diverse needs of its users effectively.

The development of Program Explorer, which launched in the fall of 2022, was driven by extensive research, meticulous planning and a comprehensive content and user experience (UX) strategy. By mapping the future student journey, conducting in-depth research, and collaborating with various College departments, the project team created a tool that provides rich and relevant content to prospective students. Read More →

RRC Polytech’s Language Training Centre has become the Centre for Newcomer Integration, with support from a generous donation of $300,000 from BMO Financial Group.

The newly renamed Centre builds on the LTC’s strong foundation and successful reputation. The funding from BMO — announced yesterday alongside an unveiling of the Centre’s new signage — will allow staff to explore new opportunities to engage stakeholders, expand partnerships and align support services based on client needs.

“BMO’s recognition of the positive impact that RRC Polytech is making in the settlement sector, and their eagerness to invest in our ability to help prepare newcomers both linguistically and culturally to contribute quickly to Manitoba’s economy, is a source of tremendous pride — and a demonstration of the power of partnership,” says Fred Meier, RRC Polytech’s President and CEO.

“This generous gift will allow us to build on the success of our language training programs and better coordinate with our partners and stakeholders to ease the transition into Manitoba’s communities and workplaces for newcomers.”

With a priority of opening doors through strategic community engagement, the Centre offers a variety of services to help newcomers successfully settle and contribute to Manitoba’s communities and workplaces through language and communication training, employment preparation services and support services such as community building events, short-term counseling, and referrals to partner organizations. This work will evolve as additional partnerships with stakeholders are established.

“BMO is committed to making progress for a thriving economy, and a sustainable and inclusive society,” says Kristen Kennedy, BMO’s Regional Vice-President, Personal Banking, Prairies Central Region. “RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration will provide newcomers to Canada with valuable resources to help them find employment opportunities and achieve real financial progress.” Read More →

Three Lieutenant Governor’s medals, the highest award that may be obtained upon graduation from RRC Polytech, will be awarded at Spring Convocation ceremonies this week.

The recipients of these medals are selected by a standing committee comprised of representatives from College management, students and instructors. This year, three outstanding graduates have been selected in recognition of their academic and technical achievement, involvement in College and/or community activities, and overall good character.

Pauline Tayag – Graphic Design

Pauline Tayag graduated with honours from RRC Polytech’s Graphic Design program. She continuously strives to make change in the community, having earned awards for academic achievement and volunteered for multiple organizations.

As a participant in the President’s Student Leadership Program — which helps shape future leaders from across academic levels, disciplines and post-secondary institutions — Tayag let her graphic design and storytelling gifts shine through the creation of “Without Borders,” a project that shared the stories of immigrants in Manitoba. Read More →

The Joyce Family Foundation has generously donated $1.5 million to support students who face barriers to education. The donation will be used to create 10 annual bursaries for youth in care and for vulnerable students at RRC Polytech.

An announcement to celebrate the gift was made at the College’s Child and Youth Care program graduation today. Graduates of this program (like those shown above) support and inspire children, youth and families, and often find employment in treatment homes, mental health and justice facilities, schools and community-based programs.

“The Joyce Family Foundation Bursary creates the largest fund for student aid at the College and more than doubles RRC Polytech’s ability to support financially vulnerable students pursuing post-secondary educations,” says College president Fred Meier.

“We thank The Joyce Family Foundation for recognizing this need and removing financial stress, allowing students to focus on their studies.”

The fund will provide bursaries of up to $5,000 for 10 students per year. Each successful applicant will be assigned an academic coach, who will work with them throughout their studies to ensure their success in the program.

In Manitoba, there are currently more than 9,800 youth in care, 91 per cent of whom are Indigenous. Less than five per cent of youth in care pursue post-secondary education.

The Joyce Family Foundation Bursary doubles the number of RRC Polytech bursaries available, from nine to 19. Read More →

More than 100 representatives from Manitoba businesses are meeting today to learn the advantages and benefits of mentoring a student through Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities at RRC Polytech.

Hosted by the College’s Applied Computer Education and Work Integrated Learning and Career Services department, the one-day conference Engaging in Work-Integrated Learning for the Changing Workplace aims to inform businesses about the WIL opportunities that exist within the College, and the supports they can receive to promote accessibility and equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

“The College is already well known for its experiential approach to learning, and we want to ensure our industry partners understand the many benefits of providing students with Work-Integrated Learning experiences,” says Dr. Christine Watson, RRC Polytech’s Vice President, Academic.

“Not only do our students gain important skills that support their future career paths, but our host employers also benefit through early access to high quality talent.

“Students come to RRC Polytech because they want a high-quality education that will prepare them to enter the workforce after graduation. This includes access to industry mentorship, experiential learning and co-operative work placements.”

The conference is funded through a partnership with the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER), with support from the Government of Canada. Through the partnership, RRC Polytech has committed to providing 650 WIL opportunities for students in 2023. New initiatives created include the Sprint to Innovate competition, pitch workshops and additional projects completed through Applied Computer Education. Read More →

RRC Polytech is meeting with federal parliamentarians this week to discuss further opportunities for Canada’s colleges, Cégeps and institutions to be the driving force in providing the skills required to transition to a clean economy.

The virtual meetings, led by Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2) — a coalition of 14 institutions from across Canada that work together to provide the skills required to transition to a clean economy — build off the success of the recently launched Quick Train Canada initiative.

Quick Train Canada is a series of tuition-free micro-credential courses offered at C2R2 institutes across the country that focus on providing Canadian workers and employers with options to update skills quickly through multi-week, virtual and in-person learning designed to boost job security and participation as the economy transitions to more sustainable practices.

“RRC Polytech’s six Quick Train courses filled up within the first week of being launched, which shows there’s a demonstrated need for learners to quickly and easily bolster their portfolios with relevant skills that will contribute to a greener economy,” says Fred Meier, the College’s President and CEO.

“RRC Polytech and C2R2 members across Canada are positioned to quickly develop thousands of training and applied research opportunities to help Canadians access new careers, support the transition to a low-carbon economy and foster equity, diversity and inclusion.”

Each C2R2 institution offers Quick Train courses relevant to their areas of expertise. All courses are tuition-free, and many are offered virtually so anyone in Canada can access them. Read More →

A cohort of Pathway to Information Technology Programs students at RRC Polytech were gifted $50,000 worth of state-of-the-art laptops from tech giant Lenovo, preparing them to innovate and succeed in IT roles across the province.

“This partnership with Lenovo not only provides students with laptops, it’s also another way barriers to education are removed,” says Fred Meier, RRC Polytech’s President and CEO. “This gift enhances the student experience and provides access to technology that meets the needs of industry and allows students to be successful in achieving their educational goals.”

The College’s Pathway programs are designed to equip Indigenous Manitobans with the support and skills needed to confidently transition into specific RRC Polytech programs. Created in partnership with RBC Future Launch, Pathway to Information Technology Programs prepares and empowers students to enrol in RRC Polytech’s IT Operations, Information Security and Business Information Technology programs.

“Our vision is to help create a world where every person has access to the technology that allows them to achieve their goals,” says Libby Richards, Lenovo’s Community Engagement Manager. “Connecting students with technology is crucial in innovation and moving society forward. This program aligns with our goals and provides students with the foundational knowledge to be successful in the rapidly growing field of IT.”

Pathway to Information Technology Programs requires students to have access to a computer with certain memory and speed requirements; those who don’t already have access are provided with options to rent a computer from the College.

At the start of the program’s first semester, Lenovo provided all students with new ThinkBook 15 Gen4 laptops, which they will be able to keep even after they’ve completed their studies.

Earlier today, representatives from Lenovo were able to tour Manitou a bi Bii daziigae and meet with students from the program.

“It’s clear to see why these students selected this program,” says Warren Beleyowski, Client Executive, MB/SK Public Sector for Lenovo Canada. “Providing them with laptops was an easy decision, as these students are going to be the ones who are meeting the ever-changing needs of tomorrow.”

RRC Polytech hosts its 23rd annual Pow Wow today to celebrate Indigenous students and graduates, while also honouring the Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S), or Red Dress Day.

Each year, RRC Polytech’s Pow Wow welcomes hundreds of guests, community members, dancers, drummers, staff, faculty and Indigenous graduates from all programs to join in the celebration, hosted by the School of Indigenous Education with guidance and leadership from the College’s Elders-in-Residence.
This year, campus flags will be lowered to half-mast and the day will be recognized with a Memorial Song dedicated to MMIWG2S, their families and those impacted by the loss of loved ones.

“Creating space to celebrate Indigenous achievement is essential action for reconciliation and is the responsibility of all of us that call North America — Turtle Island — home,” says Isabel Bright, Dean of the School of Indigenous Education.

“While we celebrate the achievements of all Indigenous students, it’s important to recognize that the date of our Pow Wow coincides with the Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People. Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people deserve respect and safety.”

Earlier this year, College leaders were invited into Indigenous communities to hear directly from members about the barriers that Indigenous learners face when considering post-secondary education. Some individuals expressed fear for the safety of their daughters or granddaughters when they leave their communities to come to Winnipeg or other urban centres, and worried whether they would make it home.

“Not only should we ensure all students are getting the highest quality education we can offer, but they should feel safe while doing so — this should never be a barrier to access,” says Fred Meier, RRC President and CEO.

“We will continue to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities to ensure we are taking meaningful steps to address the calls for justice in the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and to ensure that all women, girls and Two-Spirit people are supported and safe in their educational journey.” Read More →

In partnership with RBC Future Launch, Indigenous culture takes centre stage today as RRC Polytech students, staff and community members gather for a celebration highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship in Indigenous culture.

Running 1:00–5:00 p.m. at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Indigenous Food, Fashion and Music: An RBC Reaction by Collision Community Event will showcase Indigenous culture and arts in Winnipeg. As part of RRC Polytech’s commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, the event will immerse guests in Indigenous culture, as represented by some of the brightest local entrepreneurs, chefs, designers and performers.

“Representation and celebration of Indigenous culture is an important way to let Indigenous students, staff and community members know they are welcome here and they belong at RRC Polytech,” says College President Fred Meier.

“When RRC Polytech connects with partners like RBC, amazing things can happen. This is the second year we’ve had the pleasure of hosting the RBC Reaction by Collision Event in-person, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank RBC for choosing to support RRC Polytech students.”

Event highlights will include a haute couture fashion show, delectable cuisine from local chefs, a crafter’s market with local artisans and music provided by Juno nominees Indian City. Featured guests include Brownees Urban Bistro, Feast Café Bistro, Olivia Nasikapow, Gayle Grubin, Dawn Harris, OGICHIDAA, and many others.

Miranda Harper, an RRC Polytech grad and drummer in the local rock band Venus Man Trap, is taking part in the event’s panel and looks forward to sharing her experience as an Indigenous musician with students and community members.

“We’re showing future Indigenous generations that they’re welcome here, that there’s space for them to innovate and be bold,” Harper says. “I get inspired when young people ask me questions, either about my experience as a musician or about my career in commercial banking. It’s important for me to share the path and journey I went on to get to where I am and hopefully motivate others to do the same.” Read More →