Convocation

Alumni Engagement

The sky is the limit: aerospace leader and distinguished grad to be recognized with top RRC Polytech honour

November 20, 2024

RRC Polytech is proud to recognize aerospace leader Ron Drepaul (Business Administration, 1987) with a Distinguished Graduate Award.

This award recognizes the outstanding personal and professional achievements of RRC Polytech’s most accomplished alumni.

A graduate of RRC Polytech’s Business Administration program, Ron Drepaul joined Magellan Aerospace Winnipeg in 1988, “pretty much right out of Red River,” taking a job on the shop floor. Since then, he’s held roles in production control, material planning, contracts, and procurement – roles that have taken him across the globe. Now, he’s General Manager, leading 700 employees.

Drepaul’s experience at RRC Polytech not only equipped him with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success, but also instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for continuous learning. He loved his time at the College and now he’s looking ahead to the future – to the new graduates that serve as a pipeline of young talent to Magellan.

“We all bring our education. Hard work and a good attitude will help you stand out. Those are the two things I brought with me,” Drepaul said in a recent interview as one of 41 phenomenal graduates featured in the College’s Polytechnic Proud campaign.

Drepaul’s journey from RRC Polytech grad to industry leader showcases the power of education, dedication, and community support, and also demonstrates the endless possibilities that await those with passion and determination.

A well-deserved celebration

We’re thrilled to honour Drepaul’s leadership in the aerospace industry and his support of RRC Polytech at the Manitoba Aerospace All-Star Awards Dinner, taking place on Thursday, November 28, 2024 at the Victoria Inn.

Manitoba Aerospace has been hosting the Aerospace All-Stars Awards Dinner since 2001. Each year, the All-Star Awards celebrate the aerospace industry in Manitoba and recognize excellence in the aerospace community.

The event is also an important fundraiser, with all proceeds going to the Manitoba Aerospace Student Awards Endowment Fund, which provides financial awards to students to help them access rewarding, enduring careers in the aerospace industry, including those studying at RRC Polytech.

RRC Polytech alumni and supporters are warmly invited to attend. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Manitoba Aerospace website.

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.

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