Starting next Tuesday, youth ages 9-14 will be attending summer camps at Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech)’s Notre Dame Campus exploring photography, Indigenous culture, entrepreneurship, transportation technology, baking, and structural design.

This year, the College is offering seven camps – the most ever offered – to 160 campers, the most in RRC Polytech’s history. These hands-on camps are taught by knowledgeable instructors to introduce young people to various trades and career areas.

“Our summer camps are one way we engage youth early and give them an idea of the experiences they could have at RRC Polytech when they start thinking about a career later in their education,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “It is also a way for them and their families to get familiar with us, ask questions, and learn something they maybe didn’t know before. But most of all, the aim is to make sure these kids have a fun and interactive learning experience with a group of their peers.” 

The camps take place throughout July. Media is invited to schedule a time to attend in the timeslots listed below to capture the sessions in action.

When:

Where: RRC Polytech, Notre Dame Campus, 2055 Notre Dame Avenue

Photo opportunities: Kids engaging in trades and other activities

For a full list of camps and their dates, visit the Youth Camps page on the RRC Polytech website.

Thanks to the support of donors, some campers can attend free of charge. A $500,000 gift from the Canerector Foundation, announced earlier this year, will cover the costs of the Girls Exploring Trades and Technology Camp for the next five years, while a $40,000 gift from the Carolyn Sifton Foundation is covering up to 100 registrations for campers who may not otherwise be able to attend. The camp offerings continue to diversify and grow in response to labour market trends and thanks to the support of donors.

RRC Polytech also offers other learning opportunities for youth during the evenings and weekends throughout the year. The Gene Haas Manufacturing Boot Camp introduces grade 7 and 8 students and their parents or guardians to CNC machining, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing, plus robotics and automation. This immensely popular one-day experience recently hosted its 10^th event and surpassed the 360-participant mark in just two years.

Unique incubator offers resources, expertise, to support and accelerate economic reconciliation and drive innovation in Manitoba 

Winnipeg, MB on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – With the generous support of Prairies Economic Development Canada, the Province of Manitoba, TD Bank Group, and Canada Life, RRC Polytech unveiled its new Indigenous Entrepreneurship Acceleration and Incubation Initiative, Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah (Mittohnee) in the Roundhouse of Manitou a bi Bii daziigae – the College’s downtown hub for technology, collaboration and community. A first of its kind in Manitoba, Mittohnee transforms experiential learning, entrepreneurship and innovation into business opportunities for Indigenous Peoples in Manitoba.  

“Creating opportunities to advance Indigenous entrepreneurship is a role that RRC Polytech must play as we continue to support student success in Manitoba,” says Jamie Wilson, Vice-President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development at RRC Polytech.

“Lifelong learning is second nature and something we pass down from generation to generation. Mittohnee Pogo’otah (Mittohnee) is such a lesson, one my father learned in his youth from an older member of our community on a hunting trip. It means ‘If you are going to do it, do it right. If you don’t know how to do it right, learn how.’ This is where we can bring together the discipline and innovation to learn how.”  

Mittohnee helps Indigenous students start their own businesses as they graduate out of RRC Polytech’s entrepreneurship-based program – Social Innovation and Community Development. It does this by connecting them with a network of resources and expertise focused on process, people, leveraging existing capacity and addressing relevant recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. It also supports established Indigenous entrepreneurs or band-operated businesses looking to pivot, scale up or enter new joint ventures by serving as an independent third party with experience in this space. 

RRC Polytech’s ability to remove barriers and create better access for Indigenous entrepreneurs to become successful and drive the province forward is made possible by the power of partnership – between the College, federal and provincial governments, and generous corporate partners.     

“Through Mittohnee, we will create the space and provide the right resources and mentorship to help transform the business ideas Indigenous students develop in the classroom into successful ventures that can positively impact their community,” says Wilson. “This is a uniquely Manitoba example of economic reconciliation in action, and with support from the Province of Manitoba alongside other funders, this will be the first post-secondary institution to offer this unique initiative here in the province.” 

Mittohnee is one of six projects across the province sharing $3.9 million of federal funding toward economic reconciliation and cultural diversity in Manitoba. RRC Polytech received $1.5 million of the total announced on June 25, 2024 by the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and Minister of Northern Affairs.  

“Our government is committed to creating economic opportunities and ensuring everyone gets a fair shake. By making strategic investments that support Indigenous entrepreneurship and communities, we open up new opportunities. Today’s investments will provide training and mentorship, assist entrepreneurs to take risks, and help businesses grow,” said Minister Vandal in a government news release. 

The Province’s Department of Indigenous Economic Reconciliation contributed just over $773,000 to help ensure Indigenous students and entrepreneurs have the supports and connections they need to stay in Manitoba to build their careers and their businesses.  

“The Manitoba government is proud to support RRC Polytech’s new incubator and accelerator program for Indigenous students,” said Ian Bushie, Minister of Indigenous Economic Reconciliation. “The Mitthonee Pogo’ohtah program will help Indigenous entrepreneurs make connections with business leaders, drive made-in-Manitoba innovation, and create good jobs.” 

Mittohnee is a natural but significant extension of everything RRC Polytech has to offer, and especially of its experience in supporting Indigenous students and communities with social innovation education and programming. While much of what will be delivered will be based on an extensive stakeholder consultation, the plan currently includes the delivery and/or co-creation of: 

• an entrepreneur-in-residence/mentorship program 
• acceleration services, seminars and networking events
• student competitions
• applied research and innovation projects
• dedicated spaces for meeting and incubation of Indigenous entrepreneurs 

Mittohnee’s first director was announced at the event as well. Amy Jackson, a proud member of Opaskwayak Cree Nation, dedicated community connector and entrepreneur who founded Nativelovenotes will lead this new initiative for the College. She has more than a decade of experience working alongside provincial and federal governments in northern Manitoba and through these experiences has deepened her understanding or public service and community advocacy. 

Eighteen Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) students competed at the Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) on May 30 and 31 in Quebec City.

Out of 550 students from across Canada, they helped put Manitoba in third place overall, with RRC Polytech students being awarded nine of the 29 medals won by Manitobans at the SCNC.

In bricklaying, cabinet making and landscape gardening RRC Polytech students came out on top with gold medals plus silver and bronze medals in the CNC machining, refrigeration, aerospace technology, sheet metal work, and sprinkler fitter categories. A full list of Manitoba medal winners is available on the Skills Manitoba website.

“Our students put hours and hours of time and training preparing for these competitions to refine their craft,” said Scott Savoy, Chair of Construction Trades and Vice President of Skills Manitoba. “We’re so proud of all our students who put themselves out there to compete. It’s not an easy thing to do. Being on the national stage is a big deal and it shows that we are doing here at RRC Polytech is working because our students are performing and bringing home medals to show for it.”

All students who competed in the national competition had won a gold medal at the Manitoba provincial competition held in April.

Congratulations to all the medalists who took to the podium in Quebec City, and to each of the competitors who showcased their talents in their chosen field.

RRC Polytech medalists:

Kayla Wieler, Landscape Gardening (2) (PS), GOLD

Jacob Abbey, Landscape Gardening (2) (PS), GOLD

Jackson Bear, Bricklaying (PS), GOLD

Derrick Penner, Bricklaying (PS), GOLD

Kai Johnson, CNC Machining (PS), SILVER

Brett Mitchell, Sheet Metal Work (PS), SILVER

Roman Boyechko, Aerospace Technology (PS), BRONZE

Daniel Holmes, Refrigeration (PS), BRONZE

Andrew Bartel, Sprinkler Fitter (PS), BRONZE

A message from Fred Meier, RRC Polytech President and CEO to All Staff and Students on National Indigenous Peoples Day:

With the academic term wrapping up and as we head into summer, the halls on campus are starting to feel quieter. The days have been getting longer, with today being the longest day of the year and the official start of summer – tonight’s full moon is known by many traditional Indigenous calendars as the Strawberry Moon. 

National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated today, June 21st, honours the rich cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples all over Turtle Island. June is National Indigenous History Month, dedicated to recognizing and learning about the heritage, achievements, and diversity of Indigenous peoples across the nation. 

Even though we are always looking for ways to celebrate Indigenous excellence year-round, June and the summer solstice are perfect opportunities to share and celebrate Indigenous excellence all over Turtle Island, in our communities, and at the College. 

Today, we’re hosting a celebration at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae to receive a Dakota name, gifted by Koonshi Ivy Chaske, to rename the Agora. Kooshni Ivy is a Dakota Grandmother who had joined the Elders-in-Residence program at RRC Polytech in 2023. This is an exciting time as we welcome the Dakota language into our space and continue our mission to elevate and celebrate Indigenous languages. 

In May, the School of Indigenous Education launched a pilot Anishinaabemowin Immersion Camp in which staff had the opportunity to prepare the Sundance grounds for Ceremony. For three weeks staff were immersed in Anishinaabemowin and Anishinaabe worldviews, teachings and culture with guidance from instruction Corey Whitford and Elder-in-Residence Paul Guimond. 

This month, RRC Polytech is waiving the application fee and seat deposit for all self-declared First Nations (Status and non-Status), Métis and Inuit applicants for all programs and all intakes. This initiative is part of RRC Polytech’s ongoing strategy to reduce barriers to education for Indigenous learners, and the pilot launch in June is just one way we’re creating tangible impacts for Indigenous communities and living our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. As of today, nearly 300 applications have been received by Indigenous learners from all over Manitoba and beyond. Students that receive offers through this initiative will also have the seat deposit waived to ensure a smooth acceptance process. 

As we approach the second half of the year, I encourage you to take the opportunity to join in any of the celebrations hosted by Indigenous communities around the city and beyond:  

• Wa-Say Healing Centre is hosting its third annual Pow Wow at The Forks, with Grand Entry starting at 12pm;  
• The Manitoba Metis Federation is hosting a pancake breakfast and barbecue in Selkirk Park in Selkirk, along with all-day entertainment and a Red River Métis market; 
• Manitoba Theatre for Young People is hosting an afternoon of storytelling at Native Youth Theatre, including storybook reading and a Cree language lesson;  
• Circles for Reconciliation is hosting its second annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Tommy Sergeant Prince Place with a Sharing Circle, artisan market, and entertainment;  
• APTN and Festival du Voyageur are hosting TOOT AASAAMB at the Sculpture Garden at 233 Provencher Boulevard in St. Boniface to highlight to diversity of Francophone and Indigenous artists. 

And around Manitoba,  

• The Northwest Métis Council is hosting a celebration at the Métis Community Centre in Dauphin;  
• the Flin Flon Aboriginal Friendship Centre is hosting a celebration at the Rotary Park in Flin Flon, featuring a headline performance by REZ BOYZ;  
• The Riverton & District Friendship Centre is hosting a celebration featuring singing and jigging; 
• The Riverbank Discovery Centre in Brandon is hosting a Pipe Ceremony at 10am to kick off its all-day celebration;  
• The Elbert Chartrand Friendship Centre in Swan River is hosting a Sunrise Ceremony at 5am followed by an all-day celebration; 

…And many more events can be found on the Government of Canada’s website with the search term ‘Manitoba.’ 

Thank you, and please enjoy a beautiful National Indigenous Peoples Day! 

Take care, 

Fred 

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis Nation – This month, a record number of RRC Polytech graduates will attend spring convocation ceremonies and receive their credentials in person. Nine ceremonies across the province will celebrate more than 3,000 graduates with nearly 50 per cent of them joining friends, family, faculty and industry partners who will gather to watch them cross the platform and cap off an incredibly strong year of enrolment and academic achievement at RRC Polytech.

This comes as RRC Polytech continues to experience increases in enrolment, including an eight per cent increase in 2023-24 compared to the previous five-year average, and early tracking to suggest record levels for the upcoming fall term.

“As Manitoba’s only polytechnic, we are focused on delivering the programs and training our industry partners need not only today, but also as we build for the future,” says Fred Meier, RRC Polytech President and CEO.

“Stronger enrolment that leads to more and more successful graduates crossing the stage at convocation is living proof our strategic plan’s focus on meeting the emerging needs of students, employers and communities is working. This month we celebrate our graduates’ academic accomplishments, but also the opportunity and optimism that lie ahead.”

Over 100 applications in first week of initiative aimed at increasing Indigenous enrolment

For the month of June, RRC Polytech is waiving the application fees for First Nations (Status and non-Status), Métis and Inuit learners to any RRC Polytech program. The initiative has already had a strong response with more than 100 applications submitted in the first week.

Data from Statistics Canada in 2021 shows that 49.2% of Indigenous people between the ages of 25 and 64 had completed post-secondary education, compared to 68% of non-Indigenous people.

“That 18.8% gap represents disproportionate access to education that deeply affects Indigenous people, which is entangled in a multitude of factors rooted in Canada’s colonial history. This initiative isn’t just about the application fee, but about extending an invitation to Indigenous learners. Once they become students at RRC Polytech, we can help coordinate additional financial supports and supports designed for their wellbeing and success,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO of RRC Polytech.

While this initiative is in part to recognize and celebrate National Indigenous History Month in an impactful way, waiving application fees during this period is part of RRC Polytech’s ongoing strategy to increase Indigenous enrolment and reduce barriers to education.

“We know that, both from decades of formal community research and informal, anecdotal discussions with Indigenous people, barriers to post-secondary education are wide-ranging. As an educational institution in Manitoba, we have a duty to address the disproportionate barriers that Indigenous communities face. Removing the application fee to help Indigenous learners get started on their journeys is just one way we’re looking at to provide more opportunities for Indigenous people to participate equitably,” said Jamie Wilson, Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development.

Applicants that self-declare as First Nations (Status and non-Status), Métis or Inuit will have the $116 application fee waived for any RRC Polytech program – every person is eligible for one free application to any program and any intake.

With over 150 programs to choose from, including seven Pathways and introductory programs through the School of Indigenous Education, qualified learners can find the perfect program to fit their needs and provide the credential needed to start a career. The School of Indigenous Education offers four Pathway programs – in business, engineering, health, information technology – and three college introductory certification programs – College Transition, Culinary Skills (Indigenous) and Introduction to Trades – that prepare Indigenous students for the program of their choice and ensure they gain the skills and knowledge to thrive in a college environment.

Indigenous learners also have access to the Indigenous Admissions Advisor, who provides support and guidance either in person, over the phone, or through virtual meetings. The Indigenous Admissions Advisor can help learners explore programs of interest, review requirements to qualify for admission, navigate application processes with respect to registration and required documents, and connect with other Indigenous student support team members.

Marshall Richard, Indigenous Student Recruiter at RRC Polytech, travels Manitoba as part of Choices for Indigenous Post-Secondary Education (CIPEM) with other post-secondary institutions to inform Indigenous students of programs and supports tailored for their success. Richard and his team members see first-hand the kinds of factors that may prevent Indigenous people from taking that first step to pursuing post-secondary education.

“Removing the initial $116 application fee can make a difference for a high school student, a single parent, or a career-changer who may be on the fence about applying for a program. As students at RRC Polytech, they can access essential wraparound supports dedicated to their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing to help them achieve their goals. It’s just a matter of getting their foot in the door, and this can help them with that first step towards their futures,” said Richard.

The commitment RRC Polytech has made to Truth and Reconciliation through the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan ensures we continue to pursue equitable opportunities for Indigenous people to finish their paths in post-secondary, while creating a framework to continually address and break down barriers for all students pursuing post-secondary.

Learners are invited to create an RRC Polytech account and apply through our self-serve portal on our website or visit one of our Student Service Centres, located at D101 – 2055 Notre Dame Ave. and P104 – 160 Princess St.

More information is available at rrc.ca/free.

Near-million-dollar gift will increase supports and reduce barriers for hundreds of Indigenous learners

For immediate release: June 11, 2024

Winnipeg, MB on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis – A new gift from IG Wealth Management (IG Wealth) to Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) will reduce barriers and provide integral support to hundreds of Indigenous students at RRC Polytech.

The $900,000 gift through the IG Wealth Management Empower Your Tomorrow program will fund the creation of the IG Empower Navigation Coach and the new IG Empower Scholarship and Career Development Program at the College. The addition of this program, powered by IG Wealth, will provide integral support and allow students to learn in collaborative environments, gain leadership, confidence, academic and employment skills, including opportunities to learn and work at IG Wealth, while easing the financial burden.

“RRC Polytech continues to establish vital partnerships to support pathways to education and to reduce barriers for Indigenous learners,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Today’s support from IG Wealth will enable us to build on our success and expand that work to create strong pathways for Indigenous students to become successful graduates and leaders poised to excel in their chosen careers.”

“IG’s presence in Winnipeg spans almost a century and from day one we’ve made it a priority to be actively engaged in the local community,” said Damon Murchison, President and CEO, IG Wealth Management. “Working with RRC Polytech, we can enhance education and career path development to build financial well-being among Winnipeg’s Indigenous youth. As I look to the future, I’m energized by the impact we can make by coming together to better support students across the city.”

Manitoba is home to the highest percentage of Indigenous peoples in Canada. A significant – and growing – population of Indigenous learners in Manitoba choose RRC Polytech for their post-secondary education.

IG Wealth’s support is helping move RRC Polytech’s commitments to Truth and Reconciliation and the pursuit of equity, diversity, and inclusion forward. The program will enhance the student experience by providing tools and support to help students as they navigate their education and take important steps to start their careers.

The gift supports RRC Polytech’s In Front of What’s Ahead Comprehensive Campaign, the single largest fundraising campaign in the College’s history.

To learn more about the announcement, view IG Wealth Management’s latest news release.

On April 11, 130 Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) students took part in the Skills Canada Manitoba Provincial competition, now 18 of those students are competing at the two-day 2024 Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) in Québec City. 

All students competing over the next two days were awarded gold medals at the provincial competition and are now showcasing their talents on a national stage. They are 18 of more than 550 competitors in various skilled trades events. 

Help congratulate them on making it to the national competition and root for them as they bring all their hard work and training to the Centre de foires d’ExpoCité floor. RRC Polytech wishes them all success in their respective competitions as they strive for a spot on the podium!  

The national competition runs May 30 and 31 and will be livestreamed through the Skills Canada YouTube channel for anyone who wants to check out the action and cheer for our students as they compete. 

As of today, Menstrual Health Day, menstrual products, including tampons and pads, will now be available at no cost in all washrooms at Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) campuses as a part of the College’s commitment to creating inclusive and welcoming spaces on campus and removing barriers to learning that students and staff may face.

Products have previously been available through the Student’s Association and Health Centres on campus however this is an additional step that will ensure more equitable access to all students and staff on all campuses. Beginning this week the products will be available in all washrooms, so all students and staff have access to them regardless of gender.

“Access to menstrual products is a barrier that students and staff on campus will no longer have to face,” said Melanie Gudmundson, Chief Human Resource Officer, RRC Polytech. “Menstrual products are as necessary as other washroom products. Reducing barriers and easing access for our community is another important step in supporting an inclusive campus.”

While this initiative is something RRC Polytech had already been working towards, the vision of students in the 2022 Public Relations Major of the Creative Communications program further inspired this initiative as part of a class project.

“Our all-female class immediately understood the impact of free menstrual products – it’s just another thing you have to think about on top of everything else a college student has to face and manage daily,” said student lead on the project and 2022 Creative Communications graduate, and Team Lead of Chamber Engagement at Johnston Group, Georgia Dalke.

“It is important that everyone, whether they menstruate or not, understands what it means for RRC Polytech to stand behind its students with a program like this. Menstruating is not something you should hide or be ashamed of – it’s is a normal bodily function and shouldn’t impede your ability to get an education.”

Robin Ringland, another student who worked on the project, then came to RRC Polytech for her work placement in 2022 where she continued to work on this initiative. She is now a full time Communications Officer for the School of Indigenous Education. Part of the information she gathered includes that menstruating students will get approximately eight periods in an eight-month school year. In a two-year program, students will experience 16 periods while at school or 32 periods in a four-year program.

For those who require menstrual products, it can be expensive and interruptive to their class time if products are not easy to access when they need them. A recent Leger report, shows that one in four Canadian women have had to choose between purchasing menstrual products or other essentials. The same report notes that “menstrual stigma and access barriers can hinder education, employment and mental health.”

“It is important that all staff and students feel comfortable on our campuses. Access to menstrual products will help give students the peace of mind that what they need will be available where and when they need it so they can focus on their courses and not have to miss important class time,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “We hope to improve access and ease the financial burden for menstruating staff and students by having the products available in all washrooms. Having menstrual products available and visible in all washrooms is the right thing to do to ensure an equitable experience for all.”

RRC Polytech is committed to upholding fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people, while striving to identify and eliminate barriers that have prevented the full participation of some groups. Menstrual health is an important part of life for many students and staff and can create a barrier that RRC Polytech aims to help alleviate.

Last month, the first cohort of students in Hollow Water (Waanibiigaaw) First Nation’s Educational Assistant certificate program gathered alongside their instructor and family members with a ceremony and feast to celebrate their graduation.

The community centered celebration allowed them to share their accomplishments with their loved ones and community members. The graduates were gifted materials from their community to create their own ribbon skirts to wear to the ceremony.

Instructor Patricia Stouffer says it was important to the grads that they had a ceremony, not just for themselves but so younger people could see the accomplishments that are possible for them in their community.

Hollow Water First Nation is located on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg, over 200 km northeast of Winnipeg. The community of Hollow Water is a tightknit and welcoming one and staying close to home was a crucial element of the success of this program according to Patricia.

“One of the biggest things is having support from home and not experiencing culture-shock. It’s hard enough to transition into education and having this opportunity right in community opened doors for the students who were a part of this program. Being in their community allowed them to keep their values and connection to family alive and well throughout their education and get the support that only being close to home can provide.”

Chloe Seymour is one of the eight graduating students and is already working right in her community at Wanipigow School. She said it felt nice to be recognized at the ceremony and for their community to see their hard work in the program – echoing Patricia’s sentiment that access to education in her community was crucial.

Chloe had two part-time jobs while in the program, jobs she would’ve had to quit if she had needed to travel to another part of the province to complete the program. It was also important to her that she could set an example for kids in Hollow Water.

“I’m glad I got to show youth in my community that they don’t have to leave their home to continue their education, and that they can be successful just like I was.”

Delivering programs like the Educational Assistant certificate program in Hollow Water is one way that RRC Polytech addresses the needs of the communities it serves, while also committing to the College’s responsibility to Truth and Reconciliation.

This program is a step to ensure equitable education opportunities throughout Manitoba and was designed to remove barriers to students who would not have otherwise had the opportunity for education outside of their community. By providing communities with access to post-secondary education, RRC Polytech aims to close gaps in our educational system and create a more equitable environment between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students.