Concord Projects, longtime supporter of RRC Polytech, continues to positively impact learners with the recent announcement of $100,000 donation that will support the growth and success of RRC Polytech’s skilled trades and technologies programs, including Architectural/Engineering Technology, Construction Management, and Structural Engineering Technology.

Nolan Ploegman, President and CEO of Concord Projects says that the gift was more than a strategic donation—it’s an expression of the symbiotic relationship between education and industry.

“We have about 33 staff members who are RRC Polytech grads, including some members of the senior leadership team. We always want to be intentional about the way we recruit the latest talent, including demonstrating appreciation for institutions like RRC Polytech for helping students get the training they need,” said Ploegman.

Concord Projects is invested in student success through the financial support they provide with awards, while also ensuring that as industry evolves, students have access to the latest tools and equipment they will use when they enter the workforce. Every few years, RRC Polytech is able to purchase new equipment and refresh lab spaces thanks to the generous support of donors like Concord Projects.

In addition to supporting RRC Polytech’s content delivery, Concord Projects helps students directly every year through the $2,000 Concord Projects Award, which is awarded to a third-year Construction Management student with volunteer involvement in the community to help offset the cost of tuition.

Derek Kochenash, the Dean of the School of Skilled Trades and Technology, recognizes that students rely on funds like the Concord Projects Civil Engineering Award to focus on their studies and not have to worry about juggling a job between classes.

“We’re very grateful for the gifts we get from partners like Concord Projects; they consistently step up to help us provide the education and training that contribute to RRC Polytech’s reputation in industry,” he said.

The 2023 recipient of the Concord Projects Award, Hayley Lecuyer, says the award definitely relieved some of the financial strain she’d been experiencing as a third-year Construction Management student.

“I felt super honoured when I found out I won and it was a huge confidence booster. With six courses every semester and work placements, it’s hard to fit working part-time into the schedule,” said Lecuyer.

Concord Projects regularly provides support to the community through the Concord Projects Foundation, which exemplifies the values and principles at its core: philanthropy, community and pride of employment. Their vision to enrich the quality of life for all people impacted by their projects is regularly demonstrated through their commitment to helping us provide first-rate education to tomorrow’s workforce.

RRC Polytech is proud to recognize Concord Project’s latest support by naming T2-18B on the second floor of the STTC “The Concord Projects Classroom.”

“We’re excited to establish more recognition at the College through the naming of the classroom; whether it’s our staff who take courses to upskill or students that could one day be part of our team, we’re looking forward to people seeing that mutual recognition of our partnership at the STTC,” said Ploegman.