The Manitoba aerospace, transportation and manufacturing sectors will benefit from access to new technology and more skilled staff thanks to a $5.9 million investment in new and expanded research facilities at Red River College. The funding was announced today by the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification (WD)
“Our government is pleased to be a part of these exciting projects, which will create a competitive advantage for key sectors in Manitoba’s economy,” said Minister Yelich. “This technology will enable local companies to produce better and more cost-effective products that will help create more jobs and opportunity in our communities.”
The Government of Canada, through WD, is investing:

• $4.4 million to establish the Centre for Non-Destructive Inspection Technologies (CNDI), allowing remote-access to a network of non-destructive imaging equipment; and
• $1.5 million to expand the capabilities of Red River College’s existing Centre for Aerospace Training and Technology (CATT) and establish a new robotics training lab at Red River College’s Notre Dame Campus.

“This investment by the federal government will allow Red River College to enhance its role in the aerospace sector, and support the growth of local companies like Bristol Aerospace and StandardAero,” said Stephanie Forsyth, President of Red River College. “Our students, staff and industry partners will benefit from access to new technology and the potential for innovative applied research projects.”
The CNDI facility will provide specialized inspection equipment and a network of portable “non-destructive” imaging equipment that can be used by industry right in their own facilities. This equipment allows companies to detect hidden flaws in materials more efficiently and with greater confidence without damaging the materials.
“We are pleased to partner with Red River College in this remarkable opportunity to enhance productivity through the use of non-destructive inspection technologies,” said Mr. Don Boitson, Vice President and General Manager, Magellan Aerospace.  “This investment in both infrastructure and manufacturing know-how is the kind of strategic investment that encourages growth through competitiveness in industry.”
Red River College will expand CATT’s onsite facilities at StandardAero and also create a new training lab at its Notre Dame Campus. The new lab will provide industry with affordable access to the specialized robotics it needs to stay competitive.
“We are excited about this next phase of CATT growth as it will allow us to further expand our low heat input welding expertise and develop new component repairs that our customers want,” said Ian Smart, Senior Vice President, Airlines & Fleets, StandardAero.  “The collaborative effort with Red River College and Western Economic Diversification Canada is helping us provide better support to our customers and be more competitive in our markets.”
In addition to the new equipment, both projects incorporate education programs in non-destructive testing and advanced robotics, addressing key labour and skill shortages identified by industry.