Forty-three students in two of Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech)’s Pathway programs – Pathway to Information Technology and Pathway to Engineering – are starting their second term strong thanks to free technology from Lenovo.

“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.”

As the winter term begins, Warren Beleyowski, Account Executive from Lenovo is joining 11 students from the Pathway to Engineering Technology programs for a visual demonstration of how they are integrating Indigenous perspectives into the field of engineering, providing them with a more sustainable approach to the industry. Photo opportunities and interviews with RRC Polytech students and faculty, and Warren Beleyowski, are available.

When: 12:30-1:00 p.m., January 14, 2025

Where: Indigenous Student Support Centre, Second floor of F Building, RRC Polytech, Notre Dame Campus (1055 Notre Dame Avenue)

The Lenovo Thinkpad X13 Gen 4 laptops were given to the students at the beginning of the Fall 2024 term, and students will be able to keep them even after their programs come to an end this spring. The College’s Pathway programs are designed to equip Indigenous Manitobans with the support and skills needed to confidently transition into specific RRC Polytech programs.

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 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.”

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.

“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.”

Throughout the month of January, RRC Polytech is waiving the registration fee for First Nations (Status and non-Status), Métis and Inuit learners to any RRC Polytech program. Waiving application fees during this period is part of RRC Polytech’s ongoing strategy to increase Indigenous enrolment and reduce barriers to education. 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. 

Free application initiative to directly address financial barriers, aimed at increasing Indigenous enrolment and success.

Winnipeg, Manitoba on Treaty No. 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis Nation – For the month of January, RRC Polytech is waiving application and seat deposit fees for First Nations (Status and non-Status), Métis and Inuit learners to any RRC Polytech program as part of its active commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and identifying and eliminating barriers that may affect Indigenous learners’ access to post-secondary education. 

This is the second year RRC Polytech has offered the initiative, building on the success of last year where the removal of this financial barrier led to over 500 applicants applying for programs at no cost during the month-long promotion period. As part of the College’s continued work to understand the needs of Indigenous learners and contribute to their success, removing this initial upfront cost of $119 fee along the seat deposit fee of $400 for applicants that receive offers, helps ensure students can be admitted to programs and leverage the supports and services available to them sooner. 

“We continue to build a foundation for change in identifying what barriers prospective students may face through research and conversations with communities and leaders, such as institutional barriers like access to funding, childcare, transportation, and relocation; and social barriers like culture shock, loneliness and isolation from leaving community, and the effects of intergenerational trauma on mental and emotional wellbeing,” said Jamie Wilson, Vice President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business development.  

“Removing the application fee and the seat deposit is just one answer we’re exploring. Understanding barriers is one thing, knowing which ones have a bigger impact than the others and acting to address them is another.” 

Over the past year, RRC Polytech has taken on a first-of-its-kind initiative called Overcoming Barriers for Indigenous Students in Post-Secondary Education in partnership with Birchbark Collaborative and SecondMuse to understand the needs of Indigenous learners and how to contribute to their success.

Financial concerns were a common theme among the identified root factors that affect Indigenous students’ abilities to engage meaningfully with their educations. RRC Polytech reviewed the information gathered and where changes could be made, and reducing the financial requirements to participate in the process of applying was identified as a potential solution to a number of factors. 

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.  

“Waiving the initial $119 application fee can be a game-changer for high school students, single parents, or career changers who might hesitate to apply for a program. Once enrolled at RRC Polytech, students gain access to crucial support services that focus on their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing, all aimed at helping them succeed. It’s all about taking that first step, and removing the fee can make that step more accessible, opening the door to a brighter future,” said Richard. 

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.  

Indigenous learners also have access to the Indigenous Admissions Advisor, who provides support and guidance, and 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. 

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. 

Today, the Province of Manitoba announced a $17 million investment in the province’s aerospace sector through Magellan Aerospace, including support for Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech).

The funds – an $8-million grant and a $9-million loan – will establish a state-of-the-art machining centre, support ongoing collaboration with RRC Polytech, and establish a new test environment that will support new space product development. Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation Minister Jamie Moses noted that the investment will create 64 new highly skilled jobs for Manitobans and will also benefit 150 students per year through integrated learning opportunities.

“RRC Polytech is here to help industry partners, like Magellan Aerospace, grow Manitoba’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Today’s announcement reinforces Magellan’s commitment to working with us toward these goals and supporting our learners’ success. Together, we’ll immerse our students in experiences – in the classroom, in applied research, in the workplace – that ensure they’re career ready. Through this investment we’ll introduce them to emerging technologies and provide Magellan and others with highly skilled graduates.” 

Learn more through about the impact this investment will have through the media release posted to the Government of Manitoba’s website.

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.