RRC Polytech’s IT students are looking for 15–16-week full-time employer-paid co-op opportunities from August 25 to December 12, 2025. These programs are:

• Business Information Technology (see: Application Development and Delivery) – 15 weeks
• Full Stack Web Development – 16 weeks
• IT Operations – 15 weeks

Students have the skills and job readiness to act as: software developers, front- and back-end web developers, web designers or developers, full stack developers, Java developers, web application business analysts, IT services support, help desk associates, network administration, and more.

If you’re interested in hiring a co-op student or exploring if co-op is a fit for your organization, please reach out to our Industry Liaison Consultant today: you can reach Katie at ACEwil@rrc.ca

Important Dates

Work term: August 25 – December 12, 2025

Post to Career Bridge: starting May 5, 2025

First deadline to extend an offer to students: August 1, 2025*

Final deadline to extend an offer to students: August 29, 2025

* The first deadline aligns with the ACE Project Space industry project deadline. Most students will not be available for co-op jobs after this deadline

Potential Funding Opportunities

Employers may be eligible for wage funding or subsidies through Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) (domestic/permanent resident students only) or Manitoba Work Experience Tax Credits (all students). College staff are happy to discuss these options with you.

New to co-ops?

Co-ops are a form of work-integrated learning that integrates academic studies with quality experiences. They are an engaged partnership between RRC Polytech, an employer-organization, and a student.

The process of hiring a co-op student mirrors a regular job search with added support from College staff and potential funding opportunities to assist with paying students a fair wage (an average of $18-$22/hour for IT programs). Job postings, aligned to the program requirements, are posted on Career Bridge up to four months prior to the start of the work term. By indicating that the role is for a particular co-op term, only students who are approved for the work term will see your job posting.

More information on co-ops can be found through the following links:

Employer information

Safety Terms and Conditions for Work-Integrated Learning Employers

Student responsibilities and supports

How to post on Career Bridge

Outstanding co-op experience at MacDon takes Brandon Doucet to the fields in Australia

It took Mechanical Engineering Technology student Brandon Doucet approximately ten seconds to say ‘yes’ to an opportunity that would take him across the world to Australia for six months.

While on a co-operative work placement with MacDon Industries, Brandon was working on a prototype for a new combine header that was completely new to the agriculture industry. When it came time to test the product in the field, his supervisors noticed the interest he had taken and asked if he would be willing to conduct the testing with Australian farmers.

“It was a big leap, I learned a lot about who I am and what kind of worker I am and what kind of work that I enjoy,” says Brandon, who was 19 years old at the time of his co-op. “All in all I travelled every state and drove more than 30,000 kilometres – on the other side of the road. I got to see a lot of the country and met locals who had so many stories about farming and life.”

The product Brandon was testing is the MacDon FD261 FlexDraper, which is now available publicly to farmers worldwide. The header is 61-feet long, which about ten feet more than the previous FD2 design and about double the length of a standard combine header used to harvest crops. The header also flexes to cover the ground better and produce a better yield.

The six months of field testing entailed working directly with Australian farmers, using their combines with the MacDon prototype header. Brandon would perform regular inspections, maintenance, upgrades, and operation of the prototype equipment in the field. He would also collect data from the hydraulic and electrical systems, which would then be relayed back to the engineering team in Winnipeg for further analysis. 

“I really enjoy all the nitty gritty details of engineering testing, laying out what’s being tested, why it’s being tested and how the improvement can make a better product,” says Brandon. “During this experience I really grew to respect how much documentation plays a role in engineering. Keeping things organized so it can be looked back on after each change, and using what was learned to continuously improve.”

When Brandon first started his co-op with MacDon he had one more term left in the Mechanical Engineering Technology program before graduating. On top of the stint in Australia, he also had the opportunity to work on projects in cities across North America and decided to take a total of 16 months off from the program to gain the real-world experience.

Part of the reason he felt comfortable and confident in that decision was the reassurance from his instructor, Doris Peloquin, that the program would still be there for him to complete. She emphasized that having the diploma completed would help him in his career, but that there is value to taking on practical experiences when they present themselves.

“Co-op or internships give the students the ability to apply what they’ve learned during classwork in a real-world scenario. At RRC Polytech we do a good job of providing hands-on learning scenarios in class but it’s not quite the same experience of what you gain from a real-world experience,” says Doris. “There’s networking and professionalism and learning their soft skills – especially that ability to communicate at different levels; with leaders and those on the shop floor, and interdepartmentally.”

After graduating from RRC Polytech this June, Brandon plans to attend Lakehead University to obtain his Engineering Degree and aspires to work in Motorsport Engineering.

“Before my co-op with MacDon, I remember thinking there’s no way I’d leave Manitoba. But now I know I can always travel, learn from different parts of the world, and then come home with new ideas or ways of doing things,” says Brandon.

For more information about the Mechanical Engineering Technology program visit RRC Polytech’s Program Explorer page.

Gurman Ubhi has made significant impacts throughout their time at RRC Polytech – for themself, for fellow students, and – through their co-op placement at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) – for the environment. Their commitment to going the extra mile has recently earned Gurman the title of RRC Polytech’s Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Co-op Student of the Year. 

As a student in the Electronic Engineering Technology program, Gurman not only excels academically, but volunteers their time to serve as the Chair of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) student branch at RRC Polytech.  

It was during Gurman’s co-op placement with ECCC where their skills, passion, and initiative truly shone. Gurman worked for the Atmospheric Monitoring Division of the Meteorological Service of Canada, and traveled throughout Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Nunavut during their four-month placement. 

This work saw them assisting senior technologists during weather station verification inspections – learning and working on complicated weather station systems that involved high-powered electrical components and complex instrumentation. These are the systems that generate the climate data that the ECCC uses to provide weather forecasts to Canadians across the country. 

“Gurman’s work in assisting the senior technologists during site inspections directly contributed to the safety of the Canadian public,” noted Michael Maurice, Supervisor/Expert Technologist, Monitoring and Data Collection, Prairie Northern Operations – East at ECCC. 

Gurman credited their education at RRC Polytech with preparing them for the complex work at ECCC. 

“One of the most technically challenging yet rewarding aspects of my role was working on radar systems. This included inspections and testing of critical components such as antennas, power delivery systems, and safety equipment,” said Gurman. “These experiences required me to draw upon my coursework in circuits, signal processing, and measurements, demonstrating the real-world applicability of my academic studies.  

“Through these tasks, I developed a strong understanding of high-powered electrical systems and advanced instrumentation, further enhancing my technical expertise and critical thinking skills.” 

On top of their regular duties, Gurman developed and implemented a new online fleet vehicle tracker – a project that was so successful, it was eventually adopted by the division and is still used to this day. 

“Gurman demonstrated outstanding problem-solving skills, adapting to feedback from multiple departments and ultimately delivering a valuable tool that streamlined fleet monitoring,” said Maurice. “This project showcases Gurman’s ability to think beyond assigned tasks and actively contribute to our team’s objectives.” 

Gurman’s contributions during their co-op placement have reinforced ECCC’s commitment to RRC Polytech’s WIL co-op program, as their high performance and proactive approach demonstrates the value of working with emerging talent. 

“Co-operative education has been pivotal in shaping me into a well-rounded professional,” said Gurman. “It has provided me with the skills, experiences, and network to excel in my career while reinforcing the importance of giving back to the student community. This experience has not only prepared me for my future career but has also inspired me to advocate for the expansion of WIL opportunities, ensuring that more students benefit from such transformative learning experiences.” 

Co-operative education plays a vital role in RRC Polytech’s commitment to delivering high-quality education and training. Learn more about Co-operative Education and other types of Work-Integrated Learning at RRC Polytech.   

Student Profile: Raquel Dayrit

Business Management Co-op Profile

Raquel Dayrit, Client Advisor, RBC

Raquel with supervisors Lisa and Nicole at the Regent and Rougeau branch

With over 18 years of progressive banking experience with focus on treasury operations and credit evaluation, Raquel was eager to connect with a banking institution in Winnipeg, so she was ecstatic when RBC selected her for a placement as a Canadian Banking Operations Officer Summer Student in May 2024. In this role, Raquel was able to diversify her portfolio of skills to include client relations and sales:

The Business Management co-op has provided me with true Canadian work experience. For my case, I am glad that I landed in a well-established company that provides excellent training and hands-on experience. RBC has a well-organized 6-week training plan to ensure that interns are properly equipped prior actual work. Aside from this, my Community Manager Laurie and Manager Lisa organized a visit with other Winnipeg East RBC Branches for us to be able to know and meet other RBC personnel. Such a privilege to have that opportunity to be able to differentiate each branch’s target market and specialty. They also let us expose and participate in RBC events such as Mortgage Intro to newcomers and homebuyers. My 15-week co-op was indeed full of new learnings and experiences. 

My Banking Advisor Intern experience was my very first as my previous background was not client-facing and sales-focused. It was a breakthrough for me and truly my skills in selling and advising were unlocked. This made my experience even more noteworthy.”

With a Bachelors of Science in Mathematics degree from one of the top universities in the Philippines and her Business Management advance diploma, Raquel was prepared to contribute to a Canadian workplace:

“RRC Polytech’s work integrated learning program has enabled us to meet talented individuals who share our passion for financial services and helping clients.  Not only do the students provide additional support to meet the needs for our clients, they also help upskill our own employees and their own coaching skills when supporting the students.  It builds team morale as we come together to support the immediate and long-term success of the students” 

Nicole Waschuk, RBC Assistant Branch Manager

“The co-op program is a true partnership between RBC, RRC Polytech, and the students.   It provides us with access to motivated and skilled interns who are excited to learn and share their ideas. Because of this program and the opportunities, upon completion of the internship we hosted, we hired our intern as a full-time employee and into the RBC family”

Lisa Tremblay, RBC Assistant Branch Manager

Business Management provides a unique opportunity for professionals who want to advance their careers through the development of leadership and management knowledge and skills. 

Students possess diverse education, experience and skill sets to offer organizations. Ideal areas or departments for students to contribute include:

• Business Development           
• Accounting
• Procurement and Logistics      
• Human Resources
• Operations      
• Financial Services
• Project Management   
• Administration
• Sales and Marketing   
• Client Relations

The combination of core and elective courses and culminating with intensive work experience will prepare students for progression into career opportunities requiring strong leadership and management skills.

After her co-op, Raquel was offered a position as a Client Advisor responsible for resolving customer inquiries, providing assistance to client’s day to day banking transactions such as bill payments, deposits, withdrawals, foreign exchange requests, bank drafts, local and international wire transfers. As the client’s initial point of contact, the Client Advisor should have general knowledge of all the products and services of the bank.

“My experience has seen three students hosted at our branch and all three were offered positions because of their skills and contributions.  Real world experience is key for the students and their career path while also providing potential employers the opportunity to see how individuals thrive in the workplace.   Once hired permanently, these students already have a strong foundation in both our culture and skillsets and upskill that much faster.  It’s a great partnership that showcases our commitment to our local community and RRC Polytech’s commitment to the futures of their students.”

Nicole Waschuk, RBC Assistant Branch Manager

“The co-op process has really worked well. Our intern came to RBC with banking experience from her home country and was looking to transfer her skills, experience, and knowledge to the Canadian banking industry. We had regular connections with the RRC Polytech program coordinator throughout ensuring a positive, coordinated, and connected experience for everyone.”

Lisa Tremblay, RBC Assistant Branch Manager

For more information on the Business Management co-op program, please contact WIL@rrc.ca to learn more. We hope to hear from you!

Profile of Xueqian Zhang

Business Management Co-op Profile

Xueqian (Jessica) Zhang, Banking Advisor, RBC

Jessica with her supervisor Jordan at the Northgate Mall branch

Jessica Zhang was a finance professional who moved quickly up the corporate ladder moving from Teller to Banking Operations Officer with HSBC Bank in China in less than 5 years. It was natural that after moving to Winnipeg that she would want to continue in the banking industry and was selected by RBC for a four-month co-op as a Canadian Banking Operations Officer Summer Student in May 2024.

“The Business Management co-op was instrumental in preparing me for a full-time role at RBC. It provided me with real-world exposure to the banking sector, allowing me to apply classroom concepts in a professional setting. Through the co-op, I honed my customer service skills, deepened my understanding of banking products, and learned how to navigate client relationships effectively.

One of the key factors that helped me land my role at RBC was the networking opportunities provided by the RRC. The job fairs and career events gave me the chance to connect with recruiters, learn more about the industry, and understand what employers were looking for in candidates. These events not only helped me secure my co-op but also allowed me to make a strong impression, which contributed to my transition into a permanent position.

Additionally, the experience helped me build confidence in working within RBC’s corporate culture. The mentorship and training I received during my co-op also played a crucial role in my seamless transition to a full-time role.”

Jessica possessed a Bachelor of Commerce degree majoring in Finance and International Business from Australia before joining the Business Management post-graduate diploma program at RRC Polytech. As with many students of the program, Jessica also possessed solid work experience and skills to contribute to the benefit of RBC, with a proven track record in banking operations and customer service and numerous awards for operational efficiency and service excellence. After her co-op, RBC offered Jessica a position as a Client Advisor and after successfully completing the Investment Funds in Canada (IFC) course and passing the exam, was promoted to a full-time Banking Advisor role.

According to Jessica’s supervisor, Jordan Bronsdon, RBC Assistant Manager:

“RRC Polytech co-op students are eager to enter the workforce and take on new challenges.  With fine-tuned time management, organization, and social skills, they are well positioned to make an impact within our branch network.  RRC Polytech co-op students come with the skills and mindset to connect well with our clients and progress quickly through our training programs.  Even during their training, they provide relevant advice to our clients, and support the team to help deliver an excellent client experience.”

Business Management provides a unique opportunity for professionals who want to advance their careers through the development of leadership and management knowledge and skills. 

Students possess diverse education, experience and skill sets to offer organizations. Ideal areas or departments for students to contribute include:

• Business Development           
• Accounting
• Procurement and Logistics      
• Human Resources
• Operations      
• Financial Services
• Project Management   
• Administration
• Sales and Marketing   
• Client Relations

The combination of core and elective courses and culminating with intensive work experience will prepare students for progression into career opportunities requiring strong leadership and management skills. A collaborative partner of RRC Polytech with active involvement in WIL and student networking events, RBC recognizes the value of the co-op placement and process:

“The co-op experience is so well organized.  The students come with great recommendations from the faculty at RRC, and these instructors keep in regular communication with both the students and the leaders at RBC.  Regular touch points with the student, the RRC Polytech Instructor and the RBC leader ensure that the program continues to be meaningful for everyone.  By the end of the co-op term, the students are fully integrated into the RBC culture and are eager and ready to join the workforce as an RBC employee.”

For more information on the Business Management co-op program, please contact WIL@rrc.ca to learn more. We hope to hear from you!

Celebrate National Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Month 2025!

Each year, on the 4th Wednesday of March, Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning (CEWIL) Canada is pleased to celebrate the National Day of WIL! This year the National Day of WIL is Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

At RRC Polytech, students are invited to explore various events happening during National WIL Month.

• Mar 3 – Civil Engineering Technologies Co-op & Career Networking Event
  • Architectural Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Management
• Mar 3 – Hospitality Insider Exchange 2025
  • Hospitality & Tourism Management, Culinary Arts, Professional Baking, Indigenous Culinary Skills
• Mar 3 – Panel Discussion: Manitoba Trucking Association
  • Heavy Duty Equipment Mechanic, Truck Transport Technology
• Mar 5 – Business Directions Conference
  • Business, Applied Arts
• Mar 6 – Employer on Campus: Kal-Tire
  • Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, Collision Repair & Refinishing
• Mar 6, 13, 14, 20, 21 – Get Job Search Ready Series
  • All programs
• Mar 7 – Information Session: How to Navigate Your Job Search – Students with Disabilities
  • All programs
• Mar 19 – Application Deadline: TELUS Student Bursary – Financial Support for Community-Minded Students
  • All programs
• Mar 26 – National Day of WIL
  • All programs

If you have any questions about these events, please contact WIL@rrc.ca or careerservices@rrc.ca

The energy and excitement were high in RRC Polytech’s South Gym on February 7, 2025, as close to 250 nursing students attended the College’s first-ever Senior Nursing Practicum Showcase, an event hosted in partnership with Manitoba Health Care Retention and Recruitment Office. 

More than 25 employer booths were set up, with representatives and nurses from each of Manitoba’s health service delivery organizations eager to meet with senior nursing students to help guide their decisions for practicum experiences and their future careers. 

“It was a great experience to have managers and nurses from different locations that I might never have thought of or considered,” said third year nursing student Bradley Biggs. “I was able to meet someone in the Interlake region as well as Southern Health, which piqued my interest level. Nursing allows for many options and placements, which is amazing.” 

Katrina Enns, a fellow third-year student, noted that the event helped confirm her interest in completing her practicum in a rural setting in Northern Manitoba: “I gained contact information that I can hold onto for my future career, as well as had the ability to speak with some Northern nurses about their experience,” she said. “Hearing perspectives from representatives was encouraging and reinforced my desire for this experience.” 

Employment engagement opportunities like the Senior Nursing Practicum Showcase help ensure students can build strong connections while they’re still in school, to take forward as they build their careers in Manitoba upon graduation. 

“Hosting events to prepare students for Work-Integrated Learning experiences offers benefits for both students and employers,” said Dusty Ritchie, Director of Work-Integrated Learning and Career Services at RRC Polytech. “Students gain insights into work terms, helping them make informed career choices and expand their networks. Employers can showcase their culture, discuss opportunities, and connect with motivated students, ready to contribute. This collaboration creates rewarding partnerships between educational institutions and industry partners which results in WIL opportunities for students.” 

In her opening remarks, Dr. Tamara Chambers-Richards, Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Community Services at RRC Polytech, noted that “it takes an immense amount of kindness and dedication to enter a career in healthcare.” 

“Each of you will make a tremendous impact on the lives of Manitobans,” she said. “That impact starts with your education and will continue in the connections you make today. I hope this event allows you to learn more and get excited about the opportunities ahead for you.” 

The kindness of nurses played a large role in Bradley Biggs’s decision to pursue nursing. 

“I lost my dad just over 18 years ago and had the most amazing experience with the nurses that cared for him on a cardiac unit – this inspired me to look at the healthcare field,” he said, noting that the fast pace of nursing school can pose a challenge, as a mature student.  

“It took longer to get things to fall in place and making nursing school a reality, it is never too late to start something you are passionate about.” 

“I chose nursing because I have a strong desire to help others and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives,” added Katrina Enns. “I love hearing people’s stories and the experiences that have shaped them into the person they have become.” 

RRC Polytech is one of Manitoba’s largest trainers of health-care professionals and home to the only three-year Bachelor of Nursing degree program in the province. The College plays a pivotal role in shaping the health-care workforce in Manitoba, and partnerships such as these help to ensure that crucial roles across the province’s health service delivery organizations are filled by a passionate, highly skilled workforce. 

The Senior Nursing Practicum Showcase was made possible thanks to sponsorship from the Health Care Retention and Recruitment Office.

Photos courtesy of Shared Health Manitoba.

The TELUS Student Bursary offers financial assistance to deserving young Canadians committed to giving back in their local communities by taking on a social impact project.

Recipients receive $3,000 (college) or $5,000 (university) to help cover tuition fees at Canadian post-secondary institutions.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

To be eligible for this opportunity, you must:

• Be between the ages of 17 and 29 and in critical financial need.
• Be accepted into, or attending, a first undergraduate degree or diploma program at a college, university, or polytechnic institute in Canada.
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Commit to delivering a social impact initiative during your studies that will have a positive social or environmental impact in your community.

Application Period

March 5, 2025 – March 19, 2025

Be sure to apply early, as the application window may close once the maximum number of applications is reached.

To apply

For more information and to apply, visit: TELUS Friendly Future Foundation – Student Bursary

Business Accountancy advanced diploma students are currently seeking 4-month (16 weeks, 480 hours) of full-time, paid co-op opportunities for the Spring Term (May to August, 2025)

Should you be looking to fill positions through the summer on a permanent or temporary basis, we are open to having a conversation on how including students as part of your recruitment process can be beneficial to your organization!

Having students apply for positions doesn’t mean that you are obligated to select a student but should one stand out during selection, we can provide more details and facilitate the co-op process. The co-op is the last component of their program, so students can transition to permanent employment if they meet employer expectations.

Along with their RRC Polytech education, Business Accountancy students possess various levels of accounting education, experience and skill sets to offer organizations. Ideal positions for students to contribute include:

• Accounting Analyst
• Junior Accountant
• Accounting Administrator
• Fund Accountant
• Accounting Clerk
• Accounts Payable / Receivable Clerk
• Accounting Assistant
• Bookkeeper | Bookkeeping Assistant
• Accounting Administrative Assistant
• Payroll Assistant
• Financial Services Assistant

As well, employers who hire students for Co-op and beyond are eligible for Manitoba Work Experience Tax Credits.

If interested, the next steps to partner with RRC Polytech:

1. Let us know about the Work-Integrated Learning opportunity. Call or e-mail to discuss your WIL opportunity and we can post the job on RRC Polytech’s Career Bridge job platform.
2. We’ll work with you to ensure it’s a good fit. The WIL Coordinator will work with your business or organization to ensure the opportunity meets the needs of the program.
3. Students can apply or be placed with your organization. Once your posting is approved for the WIL term, WIL students can either apply for your opportunity or be placed with your organization.
4. We’ll provide confirmation of the partnership. You will receive confirmation of the WIL partnership along with further details and process of the placement.

Please contact WIL@rrc.ca to connect with the WIL Coordinator to learn how to partner and more information on requirements and dates! We hope to hear from you soon!

Upcoming IT Co-op Work Placements! 

Students from five IT programs are looking for 12–16-week full-time paid co-op opportunities from May to August 2025. These programs are: 

• Application Development and Delivery -15 weeks
• Data Science & Machine Learning – 15 weeks

• Full Stack Web Development – 16 weeks 

• Game Development – Art and Programming -12 weeks

• IT Operations – 15 weeks

Students have the skills and job readiness to act as: software developers, disaster recovery and business continuity IT technicians, IT services support, help desk associates, Java developers, web application business analysts, DevOps engineers, network administration, information security, front- and back-end web developers, and more.  

If you’re interested in hiring a co-op student or exploring if co-op is a fit for your organization, please reach out to our Industry Liaison Consultant today! You can reach Katie at ACEwil@rrc.ca 

Potential Funding Opportunities 

Employers may be eligible for wage funding or subsidies through ICTC or Manitoba Work Experience Tax Credits. College staff are happy to discuss these options with you. 

Important Dates

Work term: May 5 – August 22, 2025

Post to Career Bridge: starting January 8, 2025

Deadline to extend an offer to students: May 9, 2025

New to co-ops?  

Co-ops are a form of work-integrated learning that integrates academic studies with quality experiences. They are an engaged partnership between RRC Polytech, a host organization, and a student.  

The process of hiring a co-op student mirrors a regular job search with added support from College staff and potential funding opportunities to assist with paying students a fair wage (an average of $18-$22/hour for IT programs). Job postings, aligned to the program requirements, are posted on Career Bridge up to four months prior to the start of the work term. By indicating that the role is for a particular co-op term, only students who are approved for the work term will see your job posting. 

More information on co-ops can be found through the following links: 

Employer information 

Student responsibilities and supports  

How to post on Career Bridge