Red River College Polytech’s Winkler campus honoured the hard work of over 50 graduates at its 2026 convocation June 10.
Held at the P.W. Enns Centennial Concert Hall, the ceremony saw diplomas and certificates handed out in the school’s various business management, community services, education, and health sciences programs in addition to several mature student high school diplomas earned through the local Adult Learning Centre.
College president and CEO Fred Meier congratulated the graduates for making it to this milestone.
“I know that the path that you’ve taken to get to the moment that we are in today wasn’t always an easy one. I’m sure there were many challenges that you had, there were many sacrifices that you’ve had to make,” he said. “But through it all, you persevered.”
The grads will begin their careers in an ever-changing world, Meir reflected, but time at the college has prepared them for it.
“We are living in a time of rapid transformation, where digital skills and communication and collaboration are more important than they have ever been before. The pace of change may feel overwhelming, but it also offers an incredible potential for innovation and for impact. It’s clear that the education that you’ve received has prepared you to not only adapt but to also thrive in this environment.”
He urged the graduates to never stop learning, to embrace changing technologies, and to never underestimate the power of human connection.
“It’s your curiosity, your willingness to learn, and your ability to connect with others that will truly set you apart.”
After the presentation of certificates and diplomas, Arlen Thiessen welcomed the former students to the alumni.
Thiessen studied carpentry at the college in 2008 and later returned to pursue a diploma in business administration.
“Both experiences had a lasting impact on my life,” he shared, observing that his “path has not been a straight line, but every step has helped shape who I am today.”
After many years working first hands-on in construction and then behind the scenes running the business, Thiessen decided it was time to pursue a new challenge. He became a constable with the Winkler Police Service in 2023.
The skills he learned at RRC Polytech are ones he continues to use in his new career, Thiessen reflected.
“Looking back, one of the most important lessons I learned at RRC was the value of adaptability. The education I received in the practical, real world were directly connected to the challenges I faced in my career.
“It taught me that your skills are never limited to one job, one industry, or one path,” Thiessen said. “If you’re willing to keep learning and keep growing, those skills can open doors you may never have expected. Being an RRC Polytech graduate has given me a strong foundation at every stage of my career and my journey.
“From the job site to the office to public service, it helped me build confidence, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work with people from all walks of life. Those lessons continue to serve me every day.”
Thiessen’s advice to the graduates is that they remain open to any opportunities that might present themselves.
“Your career may not unfold exactly the way you had planned, and that is not a bad thing,” he stressed. “Keep learning, asking questions, work hard, and do not be afraid to take a new direction.”
