Lenovo’s generous donation of technology is providing 43 students with the tools they need to excel in two of Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech)’s Pathway programs, setting them up for success as they begin their second term.

As a global leader in technology, Lenovo knows access to technology is crucial for any student entering a post-secondary program. This gift, in the form of Lenovo Thinkpad X13 Gen 4 laptops, supports 43 students in two of RRC Polytech’s Pathway programs. This allows them to complete their programs with the latest systems being used in their fields today and eliminates any worries students may have about not having a laptop or not having access to the latest software. The laptops were given to students at the beginning of the Fall 2024 term, and they will be able to keep them even after their programs come to an end this spring.

“The financial cost of accessing technology like laptops can pose a barrier and make it difficult for some students entering a post-secondary program,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Lenovo is eliminating that barrier by ensuring students have their own technology they can use in and out of the classroom. This gift is already boosting each student’s confidence in their abilities, enabling them to pursue their chosen paths with the assurance that they are prepared to excel in both their future education and the workplace after graduation.”

The College’s Pathways are exploratory and preparatory programs that provide Indigenous Manitobans with the skills and supports required to move into selected RRC programs – ultimately helping aspiring students successfully transition from community to classroom to career with confidence.

Part of this learning involves integrating Indigenous perspectives and encouraging a new way of thinking about the disciplines they are learning – as was demonstrated today by the Pathway to Engineering students who shared how the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing can give them a more sustainable approach to the engineering industry. Warren Beleyowski, Account Executive, Lenovo, joined the students along with faculty in the Indigenous Student Support Centre for the demonstration.

A key element of the two programs – Pathway to Information Technology (supported by RBC Future Launch) and Pathway to Engineering Technology – is computer usage. Cindy Hacking is an instructor in the Pathway to Engineering program and was delighted to hear of the support her students were receiving.

“We are deeply grateful to Lenovo for their generous donation to our students. This gift leveled the playing field, ensuring every student had the tools they needed to succeed,” said Cindy. “For the students who already owned laptops, it eased their burden by allowing them to keep a device at home. This act of kindness empowered our students to focus on learning from day one and created an environment of equality and opportunity. Lenovo has made such a meaningful difference in our students’ education.”

Students like Kayleen Balfour rely on technology to succeed in the programs – though in-person labs are a critical component of their studies, so are digital systems and online assignments and reading materials.

“Having this laptop has been a blessing. It really helps me separate school from my personal things, letting me better concentrate on my studies without distractions,” said Kayleen, a student in the Pathway to Engineering program. “I know the laptops are also making a big difference for other students who didn’t have access to a computer at the beginning of the course too.”

Kayleen has worked with several construction companies since graduating high school and after the pathway program plans to take the Civil Engineering Technologist program to specialize in project management or architecture. She says she is glad she is taking the pathway program to transition back into being in school after several years of being in the workforce – something made easier by receiving the Lenovo laptop at the beginning of the program.

“Lenovo is proud to help support the future leaders of tomorrow,” said Beleyowski. “By providing students with the technology they need to complete their programs, we strive to bridge access gaps and help them on their path to success.”

This is the second time that Lenovo has provided laptops to students. In 2023 another cohort of Pathway to Information Technology students received laptops for their studies.