Winnipeg, MB – In Canada, the skilled trades workforce is facing critical labour shortage. A recent report from BuildForce Canada showed that labour demand is outpacing supply across the country, compounded by an estimated 263,000 tradespeople are anticipated to retire by 2033[1]. The shortage poses serious challenges for many industries that are foundational to economic growth and community development and underscores the importance of training and recruiting a new workforce.

Qualico recognizes the urgency of this shortage and aims to help close the gap with a landmark $1.25-million gift to RRC Polytech. The gift will support education and career development in the skilled trades, with a focus on attracting Indigenous learners and underrepresented groups to the industry.

“A strong skilled trades workforce is essential to building the homes, infrastructure, and services that our communities rely on,” said David Eggerman, Regional Vice-President, Qualico. “By investing in education and training, we’re taking a practical and forward-looking approach to helping bridge the gap between the growing industry demand and shortage of trades professionals. This commitment supports the development of a stronger, more inclusive talent pipeline, creating long-term benefits for students, our communities, and the industry.”

The gift will enhance programs, increase access and opportunities, and promote diversity and inclusion in skilled trades.  Specifically, it will boost capacity for the Introduction to Trades program by creating more spaces for Indigenous learners through RRC Polytech’s Indigenous Education.

It will also fund a navigator who will provide comprehensive support for students from northern and rural communities, ensuring they have the resources to adjust to the academic environment, and increase graduation rates.

Promoting diversity and inclusion is a cornerstone of the donation, with $250,000 specifically earmarked for scholarships and awards for Indigenous students and women. The funding is intended to help remove financial barriers and ensure more students from underrepresented groups can access and succeed in the Introductions to Trades program.

“RRC Polytech and Qualico share a common vision of building strong communities, with a skilled and talented workforce that is diverse and representative. This donation further exemplifies Qualico’s dedication to reconciliation and their efforts in creating equitable environments for everyone to learn and work,” said Fred Meier, President & CEO, RRC Polytech. “Qualico’s support will benefit countless students and will bolster programming in our skilled trades and technologies department, which will in turn help build a stronger industry here in Manitoba.”

Throughout the introductory program students explore a variety of skilled trades through hands-on experience, essential job readiness training, and connecting with those in the industry. Designed as a pathway into the Skilled Trades program at RRC Polytech, the program offers a significant advantage – upon completion, students receive guaranteed entry into the trade program of their choice.

Beyond financial support, Qualico aims to enrich the students’ learning experience and career development through several touchpoints with the company including site tours, guest speaker presentations, job shadowing, and career fairs. Students are encouraged to connect with Qualico representatives throughout the program, helping them to build a network which may shape their future career.

“In the skilled trades, success is often built on not just what you know, but who you learn from and work alongside,” said David. “We believe that the early industry exposure can open doors and boost confidence. Our goal is to provide an experience that inspires a long-term career in the trades – and, hopefully, with Qualico down the line.”

To date, Qualico has delivered two introductory classroom presentations, and site tours of their homebuilding projects in Sage Creek and Bison Run.

“The students enjoyed the site tour, and felt it was very beneficial for them as they were able to connect with a lot of different folks, gaining insight and excitement about specific trades,” said Scott Wise, RSE, Instructor, School of Indigenous Education. “A few students have expressed that summer and entry-level employment is top of mind, and most will be pursuing further skilled trades programs in the fall.”

The partnership was officially announced at RRC Polytech on May 26th, where senior leaders from both organizations gathered alongside industry VIPs, educators, and community partners. Minister Mike Moroz, Minister of Innovation and New Technology, brought greetings from the province, emphasizing the significance of this collaboration for the future of the trades industry.

The highlight of the event was a fireside chat featuring Darren Chambers, Vice-President, Star Plumbing & Mechanical, in conversation with students from the Introduction to Trades, and Cabinetry and Woodworking programs. The discussion offered insights into the future of the trades and highlighted the importance of strong, community-focused partnerships.

Topics ranged from the value of career exploration and overcoming educational barriers to the importance of mentorship and the power of building community. Students shared their aspirations and asked thoughtful questions that resonated with everyone in the room.

Following the fireside chat, guests toured the centre and connected with the instructors and students, getting a first-hand experience of how the gift will make a difference.

“Being in the room with students and hearing their ambitions firsthand was a powerful reminder of why this investment matter,” said David. “We’re proud to support the next generation of trades professionals in a way that not only strengthens our workforce but benefits the entire industry and the communities we serve.”

For more information about the program, visit RRC Polytech.

[1] BuildForce Canada, 2024-2033 Construction and Maintenance Looking Forward