On behalf of the College community, we send our condolences and deepest sympathies to Bonnie Buhler and all the family, friends and loved ones of John Buhler, who passed away on Saturday, December 21.

An entrepreneur and leader in the agriculture sector, John turned his business success into a chance to be an active and generous philanthropist. He supported post-secondary education and institutions – including RRC Polytech – and countless other community staples such as the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Siloam Mission, St. Boniface Hospital and Health Sciences Centre.

John received many honours in recognition of his endeavors, including the Order of Canada, Manitoba Entrepreneur of the Year, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, the Humanitarian of the Year award by Variety, and was recognized by the Manitoba Business Hall of Fame. In 2009, John received an honorary diploma from RRC Polytech in recognition of his support for academic success and his involvement in the community.

His support for the construction of RRC Polytech’s Exchange District Campus opened more academic possibilities and learning opportunities for students and set the foundation for what the campus has grown to be today. John’s gift is recognized at RRC Polytech through the Buhler Learning Commons and the John and Bonnie Buhler Library located within the campus he helped create.

John Buhler’s legacy continues in all the places and people he impacted.

RRC Polytech will be lowering its flags today, December 23, in honour of John’s passing.

The following story contains content about mental health illness, including suicide and discusses the death of a close family member, which may evoke strong emotions. It is recommended you read the story when you feel safe and supported. Resources are available for Mental Health Services in Manitoba (9-8-8 Suicide Hotline).

Our minds can be both our greatest challenge and our greatest source of light; they can pull us into darkness, leaving us searching for a way out.

And in those moments, we often wonder: is the fight for the search of light worth it?

The portrait Jocelyne Hebert shot, now representing Team Canada in the World Photographic Cup (WPC) this year, conveys the same message.

As a portrait photography instructor at RRC Polytech, Jocelyne has been inspiring her own students on their artistic journeys for years now. But this time her students were the ones who inspired the portrait and the message behind it.

“Over the years I have observed how some students struggled with mental health which opened my eyes to how deeply rooted this issue can be among the youth,” said Hebert. “But the brighter part of my journey toward achieving this goal was my students’ unwavering support and their ability to challenge me that truly motivated me toward success.”

The girl in the portrait is none other than Hebert’s 18-year-old daughter, symbolizing the youth of this generation.

Jocelyne has entered this competition a few times before but would usually make it past the first or second round of the three required to join Team Canada.

This time, when Hebert received emails confirming she passed the first two rounds, she couldn’t help but wonder if it would just be a repetition of her past attempts. But, on October 30, her doubts turned into tears of joy as she opened a third email stating her portrait has been chosen to represent Team Canada in the portrait/natural category—the only Manitoban on the team.

“It’s no surprise that she’s representing Canada––she’s worked incredibly hard and truly deserves this recognition,” said Joanne Struch, Acting Chair, Digital and Creative Industries at RRC Polytech. “Recognition like this not only showcases the exceptional talent of our instructors but also inspires our students and supports their own journeys.”

Struch noted this recognition is not only a significant achievement for Jocelyne but also for the College, as it highlights the value of having an instructor who, as an accomplished practitioner, can show her students the possibility for their future.

Surprisingly, the portrait wasn’t shot at a lake or a pond but at Hebert’s backyard in an inflatable swimming pool with leaves surrounding her daughter.

Hebert showed the BTS shot of the portrait to her students who said the video puts a lot more meaning to the portrait and the story behind it.

“Mental health is a great topic to shine light on and through her portrait it feels more powerful,” said Keiji Hunter, one of Hebert’s students. “It is like the Olympics of photography, and we feel lucky to have her as our mentor… she shoots more than all of us combined inspiring us with her burning passion for photography– a passion that makes her truly deserving of this recognition.”

Graham Burns and Faye Dia, another two of Hebert’s students, said every student’s relationship with her is more of a friendship than that of a teacher-student dynamic.

Beside her students, Hebert also drew inspiration from her brother-in-law, who tragically lost his life to suicide. She, along with her family members, remember him as a warm, cheerful person, making his sudden death even more impactful. The loss brought the importance of mental health into sharp focus for her.

Hebert was disappointed the same portrait – carrying a powerful message about mental health – was not received well when she entered Professional Photographer of Canada (PPOC) competition in February 2024. Though she remains grateful as it did score an excellence award at such a prestigious competition.

“A lot of times, we as a society miss the message,” Hebert reflected.

After consulting with friends, family, colleagues, students, and fellow photographers, she decided to take a bolder step by entering the WPC again.

“It doesn’t matter how old you are — always keep the fire alive,” said Hebert. “I’m proud and overwhelmed, but I did this for me, not for anyone else.”

Grateful for the support and recognition she’s received, Hebert believes it’s always worth fighting for the light, as the journey becomes the most meaningful part of reaching the destination.

Though it’s still uncertain whether her portrait will reach the finals, this achievement is already a significant milestone in Jocelyne’s career and for RRC Polytech.

Congratulations Jocelyne!

Learn more about her journey.

A reminder If you need someone to talk to about your challenges or anything in general, support and help for students is available through Campus Well-Being. Staff have access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program through Homewood Health. Your well-being is important to us, so please take a good care of yourselves and those around you.

Due to the most recent weather, road conditions, and K-12 school closures, the Winkler Campus will be closed today, December 19, 2024 and will move to online delivery.

Recently, we shared about enhancements to campus security measures and access control at the Exchange District Campus (EDC). We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as changes have been made to the way students, staff, and visitors enter campus and access spaces. 

Before heading into the December Break, there are a few important reminders to keep in mind. 

When you return to campus in January, you can expect to continue to see the same security measures in place that you have become familiar with over the last month. Security will greet you and request your College ID card, which must be presented each time you enter campus. Thank you for your cooperation. 

We are maintaining the same approach to accessing the campus in the new year to ensure as little disruption as possible for new students and those who do not yet have their ID. A reminder that those who do not currently have a valid College ID card are encouraged to get one prior to the start of the Winter Term. For more information on how to get your ID card, please visit rrc.ca/ID. 

There are also some additional safety measures that were implemented in December such as expanding the SafeRide program. We appreciate your cooperation and respect for security personnel and one another as these measures are put in place. 

Looking Ahead to January 

We have expanded and will continue to expand card access from the ground floor to other levels of the Roblin Centre, such as elevators, doors and stairways to ensure that these spaces are being accessed by students, staff or approved visitors/contractors.   

We will also be reviewing public hours of access and will provide more information in January.  

Safety and Security Reminders: 

Campus Hours 

The current hours at EDC are Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., with swipe card access only from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. 

December Break Closures: Dec 25 and 26, and Jan 1, 2025. 

Arriving On Campus 

There are five entry points at EDC: 

• The Roblin Centre: North and South Atrium doors  

• Manitou a bi Bii daziigae: Elgin Plaza doors 

• Paterson GlobalFoods Institute: Main Street and King Street doors  

Visitors and Contractors  

All visitors and contractors must sign in with security upon arrival, including a stated purpose for their visit. Security personnel will escort visitors and contractors to their destination on campus.  

A reminder that the public is welcome to access amenities on the first floor of buildings, including the Campus Store, Student Services, and Tim Hortons at the Roblin Centre, and the Culinary Exchange and Jane’s Restaurant at Paterson GlobalFoods Institute. All other floors and spaces are for student and/or staff access only. 

Student Drop-Off and Pick-Up 

Family, friends, or those who are dropping off or picking up RRC Polytech students or staff members are welcome to wait inside the campus. Please ensure you check in with security when you arrive. 

Safe Walk and Safe Ride  

Safe Walk and Safe Ride are services available to RRC Polytech students and staff, as well as visitors, ensuring that they safely get from campus to their vehicle or on the bus. To access this service call Security Services at 204-949-8305 (EDC) or use a Safe Walk/Safe Ride phone on campus. Learn more about Safe Walk and Safe Ride Services at rrc.ca/safety.  

Personal Belongings  

A reminder that students and staff should never leave their personal belongings unattended. This includes locked spaces such as classrooms, meeting spaces and breakout rooms. RRC Polytech is not responsible for any damage or theft to personal belongings.  

Downtown Community Safety Partnership 

RRC Polytech has collaborated with Downtown Community Safety Partnership (DCSP) over the last several years to enhance our safety strategy at EDC and provide additional supports and access to resources for students, staff, visitors as well as community members. If you see a DCSP Ambassador nearby, they are here to assist you and everyone who makes up the downtown Winnipeg community. 

If you witness or are experiencing a safety concern, call or visit Security on campus. RRC Polytech security personnel will address and direct your concern as needed. For example, connecting with the DCSP front line team to provide support to vulnerable community members.  

Thank You 

The College continues to prioritize safety through ongoing collaboration and welcomes your feedback. We will provide another update to the College community in January. 

For questions, contact Safety, Health, and Security Services at safety@rrc.ca.  

Thank you for your support in maintaining a secure and welcoming campus environment. 

The Schroeder Foundation reaches a milestone of $18.2 million in support to RRC Polytech with new $1.25 million donation to provide full-ride scholarships for Winnipeg students.

Winnipeg, MB on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis – More Manitoba students can breathe easy knowing they won’t have to pay for their program at RRC Polytech thanks to a $1.25 million donation from Walter and Maria Schroeder, through the Schroeder Foundation.

This most recent donation from the Schroeder Foundation comes on the heels of a $15 million donation to create the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts, the largest ever received by RRC Polytech, announced just three months prior – now bringing the Schroeder Foundation’s total contribution to RRC Polytech to $18.2 million. Walter and Maria, born Winnipeggers, are changing the lives of their “Schroeder Students” at RRC Polytech who receive their scholarships.

“Walter and Maria are making a tremendous impact for students,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “This incredible donation is yet another example of how the Schroeders are easing the way for students in their post-secondary education journeys. The lives of more than 200 students have already been changed thanks to their generosity and more will be changed in the years ahead. They are setting an inspiring example of the impact that philanthropy can have – whether it’s investing in state-of-the-art spaces and programs or eliminating financial barriers to higher learning.”

The existing Schroeder Scholarship fund was established in 2018 to help eliminate financial barriers to education for students. To date, the Schroeder Scholarship fund has supported 213 students from Winnipeg high schools, and this most recent gift will continue to support even more students over the next five years.

“Supporting students who might need financial support to complete their education is important to us,” said Walter Schroeder. “We know that not everyone can afford to attend post-secondary education, but we don’t believe that should be a barrier. We created and continue to fund Schroeder Scholarships to give students at RRC Polytech the opportunity to get ahead in a career path of their choice without having to think about how they are going to be able to afford it.”

The donation will support students like Veronica Ade – Schroeder Scholarship recipient and a second-year Business Administration student with dreams of opening a storefront for her hair braiding business after graduation.

“When I found out about the scholarship I couldn’t believe it – I’m not sure I ever would have been able to go to school without it,” says Veronica. “I want to thank the Schroeder Foundation for the opportunity, I really don’t know how to thank them enough.”

The Schroeder Scholarship fund covers the full tuition costs of nearly all programs at RRC Polytech for the recipients, as well as textbooks and access to wraparound supports like the transition to college program offered by the college.

The Schroeder Foundation’s donations are in support RRC Polytech’s comprehensive campaign In Front of What’s Ahead, the College’s largest fundraising campaign ever with the aim of transforming learning and research spaces, amplifying RRC Polytech’s impact, and enhancing the student experience.

Walter and Maria Schroeder were awarded in 2023 with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Manitoba Outstanding Philanthropist Award. The Schroeders are the largest donor of full-ride scholarships at RRC Polytech and in 2022 were awarded an Honorary Bachelor of Education Degree from the College for their steadfast dedication to removing barriers to education for Manitoba youth.

Yesterday’s snowstorm is having and impact on road conditions. Please click here for more information on highway closures and road conditions.

Winnipeg campuses remain open and will operate as usual and please use caution while commuting.

RRC Polytech’s regional campuses will be operating as follows:

• Portage Campus is open.
• Stevenson Southport and Stevenson Winnipeg campuses will be open with classes continuing in-person as scheduled.
• Selkirk campus is closed with online delivery online today.
• Peguis campus is open with classes continuing in-person as scheduled.
• Steinbach Campus is closed with online delivery.
• Winkler Campus is open.

For those driving both inside and outside of Winnipeg, please drive with caution and adjust to weather conditions.

If you cannot make it to classes or work safely due to weather conditions, please work with your instructor or supervisor directly.

Any updates to campus operations will be shared here.

High volume of completed projects ranks first among peer institutions in annual research rankings 

For immediate release:

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Métis – RRC Polytech’s Research Partnerships and Innovation (RPI) celebrates its 20th year by continuing to lead Canada’s medium-tier colleges in applied research projects, with 222 completed in 2023 alone. The College secured 146 research partnerships and saw a 94% increase in industry investments over the previous year, showcasing its growing influence. Re$earch Infosource released its annual rankings of the country’s top research colleges yesterday.

“These results reflect RRC Polytech’s proven track record with two decades of applied research success and the trust we’ve built with partners across all sectors,” said Jamie Wilson, VP of Indigenous Strategy, Research, and Business Development. “Applied research is a cornerstone of our identity as Manitoba’s polytechnic, offering our technology, expertise and facilities to identify affordable and effective solutions to challenges faced by businesses and communities alike.”

RRC Polytech has made its mark in diverse fields, from developing bioplastic food packaging to pioneering diesel-to-electric bus conversions. The Centre for Automation and Manufacturing Technology Transfer (CAMTT), located at the College’s Price Institute of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechatronics, launched this fall, is the latest addition to its capabilities, focusing on Industry 4.0 technologies like robotics, additive manufacturing, and AI.

Manitoba’s businesses continue to invest in this work and trust the expertise of the College’s research teams, fuelling confidence in funders of research endeavors. Over the last 5 years, RRC Polytech’s granting council revenue ranks second among its peers at nearly $16 million, funding projects like robotic precision improvements and 3D vision systems that leverage the institution’s expertise in advanced manufacturing.

“We’re solving real-world problems for our partners at all stages, from growth and productivity to adopting new tech to creating sustainable processes,” said Dr. Jolen Galaugher, Director of Research Partnerships & Innovation.

“Through applied research collaborations, RRC Polytech has proudly been making things possible in Manitoba for 20 years and our operation and leadership role within the innovation ecosystem continues to grow.”

Notably, RRC Polytech is the only post-secondary in Canada that integrates research into its Indigenous Strategy portfolio, underscoring its unique commitment to social innovation and Indigenous growth in Manitoba.

“Applied research connects our faculty, staff and students, provides invaluable experience through work-integrated learning and helps to create a problem-solving mindset across our College community,” added Wilson. “We’re driving alignment, innovation, and progress that elevates all Manitobans.”

As one of Canada’s leading polytechnics, RRC Polytech continues to expand its influence, creating solutions that make a difference in Manitoba and beyond.

Learn more at rrc.ca/research.

About the Rankings
Re$earch Infosource annually ranks Canada’s top research colleges based on performance metrics such as research income, partnerships, and completed projects. Institutions are categorized by size to ensure accurate comparisons. RRC Polytech consistently ranks among the top performers in the medium-tier category, earning recognition for its research excellence, innovation, and industry impact.

Eric Swanson has been a Carpenter Apprenticeship Instructor at RRC Polytech for just over a decade. Last week, he was shocked and humbled to learn he was receiving the “Technical Training Instructor of the Year” award at the 18th Annual Awards of Distinction hosted by the Apprenticeship and Certification Board at the RBC Convention Centre, where Apprenticeship Manitoba honored him with this award.

“It was unreal. I was so nervous sitting there when the nominations showed up. It seemed something like the Academy Awards, and it was unexpected for me to win that award,” said Swanson. “It was a special moment for me.”

The award honors individuals who have made a significant impact in the skilled trades by mentoring and training apprentices, with nominations coming from the apprentices themselves.

Eric teaches his students everything from wood frame constructions to roof framing, such as site layout (surveying sites), installation of exterior finishing products, and safe operations of tools and equipment. He feels truly honored that all the work he put into his teaching is worthy of the award.

Emotions ran high as he shed tears while receiving this award – not only in front of his peers and the student apprentice who nominated him, but also in front of Swanson’s first instructor when he was attending the program, who ten years later is now the program Chair of Construction Trades at RRC Polytech, Scott Savoy.

“I want to inspire my students just like my instructor [Scott] inspired me to teach. I hope ten or 15 years from now I will be able to watch my students winning awards and can feel the same sense of pride my colleagues felt seeing me be recognized by my students and receive this award,” said Swanson.

Scott Savoy attended the ceremony to watch his student, instructor, and now colleague, Eric, accept the award for his outstanding ability to inspire and impact his students.

“It was a very emotional evening. I was surprised but also felt very, very proud of Eric,” said Savoy, with a big smile on his face. “This recognition solidifies the fact that we’re doing the right thing at this college, that we’re making a difference in the lives of people here.”

Scott believes the future of the trades program and the college is in good hands, as this recognition signifies the positive impact the program has on students.

Alongside Eric, the college is proud to have other nominations as well, including Alex Lagasse (Plumbing), Glenn Schapf (Automotive), and Mark Klimchuk (Autobody).

Since the nominations come from an apprentice, it reflects the positive influence and empowerment the instructors provide through their teaching and training.

Joel Gustafson, a Carpentry apprentice who was a student in Eric’s class last fall, nominated him for the award.

Joel received an email from Skills Manitoba—a not-for-profit organization that has been organizing the Awards of Distinction Gala for five years— to nominate an instructor for this award.

Throughout the course, Joel remembered that email – as his instructor, Eric, constantly demonstrated his dedication that went far beyond just being an instructor. He knew Eric was deserving of this award and recognition for his commitment to his students.

“Eric is more than just an instructor of the year, and I feel great pleasure being the one to be a part of his journey,” said Joel. “I’m glad there is an opportunity for people like Eric to receive prestigious recognition, and I hope humanity continues rewarding the deserving and helping those who have the inability to achieve rewards like this one.”

Eric describes his relationship with his students as one of friendship. He hopes his students continue to treat their colleagues with the same respect, understanding, and compassion they practice in class into their future workplaces.

In a world of flashy celebrations, Eric found peace holding his wife’s hand and celebrating this success with a bottle of water while driving his car to their kids back at home.

Congratulations to all the nominees!

The following update is being shared with all staff and students

Due to a Manitoba Hydro power outage affecting RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus (NDC), and the surrounding area, all in-person evening classes at NDC will be cancelled tonight, December 3, 2024.

Any exams that were scheduled for this evening will be rescheduled. Students are advised to check their course LEARN sites for more information on exams and classes disrupted by tonight’s power outage.

The Notre Dame Campus is closed, and we ask all staff and students to please make arrangements to leave the campus as soon as they safely can. If you are waiting for a ride or for the bus, please remain indoors until you can safely leave the building.

Please do not use the elevators at this time.

If you need assistance, please visit the Security Services team in the C Building.

All other RRC Polytech Campuses are unaffected by this outage and will maintain regular operations and activities.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this Manitoba Hydro Power outage.

As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance campus security and access control at the Exchange District Campus, starting Monday, December 2, security officers will be stationed inside the doorways of each of the following building’s main entrances:

All other entries to our facilities at EDC will remain locked.

Expanded swipe card access and reviewing current public operating hours

The additional security will support our work to restrict access on campus and help us inform the College community to have College ID as we expand swipe card access to our downtown facilities in the new year.

What to expect when arriving at EDC
 

At each entrance, Security will inform staff and students to ensure they have a valid college ID. Staff and students who do not have a College ID will be provided with information on how to obtain one and instructed to get their ID before the December break, as ID will be required to access the campus in January.

Security will advise members of the public visiting EDC that their access is restricted to public spaces such as Student Services, the Campus Store, Tim Hortons, Culinary Exchange or Jane’s Restaurant only. Access is not permitted anywhere else on-campus, unless there is a stated purpose for their visit.

This initial step is part of our ongoing work to expand swipe card access to our spaces, review our public hours of operation, and restrict access to non-public spaces.

We will share more information regarding card access and campus hours in a future update, in early December, as we finalize those plans.

Access will not be limited for staff and students who do not have a College ID for the rest of the Fall Term while we make this transition for January.

We encourage everyone to carry their RRC Polytech ID cards at all times.  

January 2025 Access

Beginning January 2025, access to the Exchange District Campus for staff and students will require a valid staff or student ID card.

Members of the public must have a stated reason for visiting the campus such as visiting Tim Hortons, Student Services, Campus Store, Culinary Exchange, or Jane’s. Approved visitors, such as service personnel, guests, contractors and people accessing the campus in support of our programs, will continue to be permitted on campus as well. Details on those processes are in development and will be shared soon.

In addition to updated swipe card access, there will be additional changes at The Roblin Centre to manage access to the campus, further details will be shared once finalized.

We recognize that the new year and term will bring new students onto our campuses, and we are working to ensure that new students at EDC can obtain their college ID without impacting their studies. 

We are also developing processes to ensure that special events, conferences, Open Doors, and other activities we host on-campus will continue without disruption once our new access procedures come into full effect in January 2025.

New Signage and Designated Staff and Student Areas  

Along with the upcoming access changes we are installing new signage across campus to identify restricted areas only accessible by RRC Polytech staff and students. Security will actively monitor these spaces and escort anyone off-campus who is not authorized to be in them.

Thank you

This change, and upcoming changes, is a step toward continuing our work to enhance security across the Exchange District Campus and maintain a safe environment for all staff, students, and visitors.

We recognize that this may require some adjustments, and we appreciate your cooperation as we implement these additional safety measures.

Should you need to obtain or replace your ID card, please visit one of our Student Services Centres. For more details on obtaining a card, please visit rrc.ca/ID

Thank you for your support as we continue our efforts to expand the security services and support available to our College community. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Safety, Health and Security Services at safety@rrc.ca.