As part of its ongoing commitment to advancing a strong, sustainable auto repair industry, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has announced a donation of approximately $1.2 million worth of specialized collision repair tools and technology to RRC Polytech’s Collision Repair and Refinishing Program.
The contribution includes over 200 individual pieces, including major frame repair systems, welders, tire service and plastic repair equipment, and specialized collision repair tooling, that were previously part of MPI’s physical damage automotive research and training operations. It will now be used to help address the critical shortage of skilled collision repair technicians in Manitoba by strengthening advanced level technical training at RRC Polytech.
“This is an excellent example of how our partnership continues to support students and strengthen Manitoba’s skilled trades workforce,” said the Honourable Matt Wiebe, Minister Responsible for MPI. “By ensuring future technicians have access to specialized, industry standard equipment, MPI and RRC Polytech are providing opportunities for students to hone their skills today, and ensure the sector has skilled professionals moving forward.”
The donation builds on MPI’s long-standing dedication to supporting Manitoba’s collision repair industry.
“A key part of MPI’s mission is to help create safer roads for everyone, and we believe that strengthening a healthy, sustainable repair sector is a significant part of that commitment,” said Carmen Nedohin, MPI Board Chair. “Through ongoing work with our repair association partners on education opportunities, scholarships as well as this contribution to RRC Polytech, MPI is proud to be helping prepare the next generation of professionals for the increasingly complex vehicles and technologies they will encounter in the workplace.”
As Manitoba’s only post-secondary institution offering Levels 2 through 4 of apprenticeship training in collision repair, RRC Polytech is uniquely positioned to use this advanced equipment to help prepare tomorrow’s technicians.
“At RRC Polytech, we are committed to providing students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving workforce,” said Lloyd Schreyer, RRC Polytech Board Chair. “The success of our students is strengthened by partners like MPI, who recognize the impact of our training and support it with innovative solutions that enrich the learning experience.”
Some of the donated equipment includes a tire balancing and tire changing machine, which will help students learn industry-standard wheel and tire service procedures; a nitrogen welding system for plastic repair, which teaches repair-first techniques that allow damaged plastic components to be safely restored; and a fume extraction system; which removes welding fumes and airborne contaminants from the work area. The equipment is set to benefit more than 400 students enrolled in transportation trades programs each year.
“As a student at RRC Polytech, I’ve been fortunate to train on the same state-of-the-art equipment used in industry,” said Cassandra Foy, Skills Canada gold medalist and RRC Polytech student. “Thanks to MPI’s support, my classmates, future students, and I will have even more opportunities to develop our skills and prepare for successful careers. Thank you to MPI for their incredible support!”
The equipment, now located at RRC Polytech’s Notre Dame Campus, will be incorporated into the Collision Repair and Refinishing Program’s curriculum for courses beginning this fall.
