Breaking into a career in a chosen industry can be one of the most challenging steps in the education journey.

Thanks to support from RBC, the Indigenous Career Fair is a focal point of discovery, where students can network with each other, alumni, employers, and future career connections.

Every year, Indigenous students from all over the Red River College Polytechnic (the College) walk together through a variety of career options at the Indigenous Career Fair. More than thirty employers attended the Indigenous Career Fair on January 28, offering job openings and career opportunities for students to explore while gaining insight into the current job market and economic landscape. The RBC Headshot Lounge was available in addition to RBC’s event sponsorship, where students could capture professional headshots for their LinkedIn profiles and for other professional uses.

Justin Habinski, an Introduction to Trades and Plumbing graduate, had finished his program the week before but made time to check out the employers that were offering positions.

“I was probably one of the few that showed up after the end of the program,” said Habinski. “I’m glad I went, though – there were a couple of jobs that stuck out and gave me some ideas for my career.”

Providing opportunities for Indigenous students is a vital part of RRC Polytech’s commitment to reconciliation. True reconciliation means walking alongside students, ensuring they have equal access to opportunities while embracing and celebrating Indigenous values, cultures, and traditions.

Guy Gagnon, a second-year Disability and Community Support student, attended the career fair to explore different paths. While he has experience working at a ground level in community support, he aspires to create change at a higher level.

“The career fair was kind of overwhelming at first because there are so many paths to consider, but it was also eye-opening. There were a lot of roles that I’d been in before, and helped me reflect on where I want to make an impact. I think the career fair is a great way for students to either re-evaluate their paths or reaffirm what they want to do with their careers,” said Gagnon.

The event featured an interactive passport students could use as an icebreaker with employers – for every five employers they spoke to, they were entered into a draw. Students had the chance to score some amazing prizes, including a $500 Ticketmaster gift card generously provided by RBC.

“The icebreaker was a really fun incentive – it helped me speak to more employers than I thought I would,” said Keegan Thomas, Indigenous Culinary Skills student and grand prize winner. “I wasn’t expecting to win, but I’m looking forward to using the card for a show, maybe out of province.”

Students had an additional chance to win when they listened to the panel that was held at noon. The panel was led by Kelly Krakalovich, Mentorship Coordinator with the School of Indigenous Education. The panel was featured Darcie Bonwick, an Indigenous Entrepreneur, Mittohnee Pogo’otah; Katelyn Lawson, Relationship Manager, Commercial Banking, RBC; and Craig Fisher, Program Facilitator, School of Indigenous Education, RRC Polytech.

“The panel was a great way to bring together Indigenous professionals at different stages in their careers,” said Craig Fisher. “I was thrilled to be part of an event where students could envision themselves in these roles one day. As an advocate for Indigenous representation in underrepresented industries, I believe it’s essential for students to see and have the opportunity to connect with Indigenous folks who came before them.”

The panel event highlighted the balance between traditional knowledge and contemporary career pathways that Indigenous professionals navigate every day. The discussion explored themes of identity, learning, community impact, and wisdom for future generations. The panelists provided meaningful insight on Indigenous economic development, cultural resilience, and success beyond financial metrics, while demonstrating the value of mentorship and networking opportunities.

“I want to show Indigenous students just how valuable their presence is in industry. Working with First Nations communities as a First Nations woman myself has helped me to make deep connections with the people that I provide services to,” said Katelyn Lawson. “That sense of familiarity – with culture, with the challenges communities face, with the goals they’re working towards – is a powerful bridge, not only for your own career, but for making change in our communities.”

The Indigenous Career Fair reflects RRC Polytech’s commitment to empowering Indigenous students. With RBC’s support, this event leverages our role as an educational institution to foster meaningful, lasting connections between Indigenous students and organizations — creating opportunities that benefit not only the students but also their families, communities, and the broader industry.