The Assiniboine
EFFECT
Spring 2022
ROAD TO EDUCATION A FAMILY AFFAIR
Mother and son better their education to create a future not only for themselves, but for their granddaughter and daughter.
CLOSE HALL SISTERS DISCOVER DIFFERENT PATHS
Three sisters from Virden, MB, find their paths at Assiniboine, graduating together from vastly different disciplines.
FUTURE OF AG BUILDS ON FLAGSHIP CAMPUS
Assiniboine’s North Hill campus has a storied history. The next chapter aims to be an impactful one for agriculture.
CONTENTS 3 Record $600K in 21/22 Student Awards
Assiniboine distributed student financial support for the current academic year and awarded a record amount.
4 Faculty Spotlight: Derek Ford
Creative media instructor, Derek Ford, recounts his career journey and 45-year connection to Assiniboine.
5 More Seats for Rural Rotating Nursing
A provincial investment in nursing, announced in late 2021, will mean more seats for nursing students across Manitoba.
6 Future of Ag Builds on Flagship Campus
Assiniboine’s North Hill campus has a storied history. The next chapter aims to be an impactful one for agriculture.
16 Tuition-Free Ag Equipment Operator
A partnership with Congress of Aboriginal Peoples sees a tuition-free program, providing opportunities for in-demand careers.
17 Funding for Sustainable Growing Research Dr. Poonam Singh has received an important funding boost to lead a research project focused on ornamental crop sustainability.
18 Culinary Events Return to Assiniboine
Following a year where in-person culinary events weren’t possible, a new event is born and an old favourite returns.
20 Road to Education a Family Affair
Mother and son better their education to create a future not only for themselves, but for their granddaughter and daughter.
8 Support for New Ag Facility Continues
As the campaign for the Prairie Innovation Centre continues, the college is thanking those who’ve gotten involved to date.
10 Trades See Higher Female Representation
Meet two female student athletes, who’ve found their places, both on the soccer pitch and in the trades shops.
12 Assiniboine Programs Receive Accreditation Business and Agribusiness receive accreditation from respective, relevant associations.
13 Employment Skills Delivered to 34 Youth The Youth Employment Skills Strategy program wrapped up its second successful offering in late 2021.
14 Close Hall Sisters Discover Different Paths Three sisters from Virden, MB find their paths at Assiniboine, graduating together from vastly different disciplines.
22 Rotating Trades at Parkland
Rotating trades programs take root at Parkland campus, giving learners an opportunity to get training close to home.
23 Ag Extension Brings Learning to Industry
New agriculture extension programs continue Assiniboine’s quest to connect with and provide ag industry with opportunities.
24 Alumni Making Moves
Catch up with Assiniboine alumni who have recently made notable moves in their careers.
25 Introducing Aviation Management
A partnership with Brandon Flight Centre is bringing an Aviation Management certificate to Assiniboine.
26 Mental Boost a Bonus from Athletics
Two Cougars goalkeepers have recognized their involvement in sport has helped them navigate their mental health journeys.
Cover photo: Assiniboine alumni from Parkland campus, Frances and Randall Munroe (mother and son) along with Randall’s daughter, Wyntersky Munroe (full story page 20)
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e n i o b i n i s s A PROVIDES $600K IN
FINANCIAL AWARDS TO 2021/22 STUDENTS
Assiniboine has now distributed most of its student financial awards for the current academic year, and with the final count, has awarded more than $600,000 in financial awards to students for the 2021/22 academic year. This record-breaking sum is $150,000 more than the previous academic year and the largest disbursement of student awards in college history. “This is a magnificent milestone, and something that has the power to “Not only do we see the importance of student success every day in our create and enhance possibilities for many Assiniboine students,” said business operations, but also in the community at large. We’re proud to Derrick Turner, Director, Advancement & External Relations at Assiniboine. work with Assiniboine to add some positivity to students’ lives.” “The goal of our fundraising is always to enhance the student experience. Whether it’s learning tools and facilities or student financial awards, our Assiniboine’s college community has a long history of giving to support efforts are student-focussed.” student needs. Along with new and existing award sponsors like Koch Fertilizer Canada, the college’s Funding Futures campaign connects with “This record, we hope, is the first of many to come. We’re incredibly grateful, staff and alumni, and raised close to $90,000 from 2017 to 2020. as are the students, for the phenomenal community support we receive to make this possible.” “In addition to being a fundraising campaign to support student awards, Funding Futures allows us to further the sense of community that Awards distributed from this record amount will help close to 300 exists between staff, students and alumni. Alumni belong to something students pursuing training at Assiniboine this year. Financial awards are bigger—a community of people who have similar experiences and can given to students based on a variety of indicators, including financial celebrate their successes while giving back to the next generation,” said need, academic performance, athletic participation and emergency needs. Lisa Huston, Advancement Officer. “As a community member and employer of current and future alumni, we know the value of helping students to focus on their college experience with less stress about funding that experience,” said Tyler Porter, Human Resources Leader with Koch Fertilizer Canada ULC, which has sponsored financial awards since 2010 and currently provides four $2,500 entrance awards.
The fifth annual Funding Futures campaign wrapped up at the end of 2021, but the college continues to accept donations to student awards and other special projects year-round. Visit assiniboine.net/fundingfutures for more information or to donate.
COU GARS CLASS I C 7 A NNUA L G OL F TO U RN A M E N T TH
June 23, 2022 Shilo Country Club
$125 – individual registration fee $500 – foursome registration fee For more information, contact alumni@assiniboine.net
assiniboine.net/cougarsclassic
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
Derek Ford Instructor
My name is Derek Ford, and I’m an instructor with the creative media programs at Assiniboine. I started out learning graphic design in high school, which got me interested enough to try an art class in the evenings in university. Originally, I was studying English, but I liked the art class so much that I decided to change my study to fine arts. After university, I was working as a cook in a few different restaurants creating big showcase cakes and stuff; it was interesting and allowed me to keep being creative while making a living. I did that for a while until I got accepted into a pilot program focusing on 3D animation at Red River College. When I got there, it was filled with a lot of the same people that I had studied fine arts with so it felt great to be with creative people again. It was a really intensive one-year program that focused strictly on 3D. I eventually got hired to work for Manitoba Lotteries. I worked there for four years creating animated titles and segments; pieces that they used only within the casinos. At that time, I also got the opportunity to produce some short animations for the Winnipeg Goldeyes to use on their jumbotron. It was intoxicating to see my work up on this big screen with a few thousand people viewing it. Later on, I got another opportunity to create similar animations for the Manitoba Moose. My background and work experience eventually led me to a new opportunity at Assiniboine, teaching a computer generalist program at Parkland Campus in Dauphin on a one-year contract. Once my contract was up, I spent a year teaching English in Taiwan, which was an interesting challenge and an awesome place to live for a year. When the year was up, I returned
GET TO KNOW OUR COMMUNITY Meet more Assiniboine staff by visiting assiniboine.net/SPOTLIGHTS
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to Dauphin to teach and was eventually offered a position as an instructor in the Web Design program at Assiniboine’s Victoria Avenue East Campus in Brandon. I was excited for this opportunity; it let me get back to my creative roots. I’ve been an instructor since, although the program has changed and been restructured. Now, I’m an instructor for our three creative media programs—Media and Communications, Web and Interactive Development, and Digital Art and Design. As an instructor in the three creative media programs, I primarily focus on software training—things like Photoshop, Illustrator and After Effects. I also teach photography, visual design, animation, 3D modeling, game development, and virtual reality. I’ve also started developing and teaching skills in 3D printers, physical printing and using a lot of other new mediums like Augmented Reality. Many of our courses in the programs touch on those skills, and I get to teach the fundamentals that carry over from course to course. So, when you learn fundamental visual creation skills in something like Photoshop in the first-year, it carries over and is used in many of our other courses and projects going forward in the program. In a lot of ways, this job has been a dream for a creative person like myself. I’m constantly learning, which I then get to share with my students and explore new technology as it comes out. I feel extremely privileged to be here and be in an environment that fosters the idea of life-long learning and constant development. I interact with people all the time that I’ve had the pleasure of teaching over the years. Past students are in so many different roles: senior animators, artists, designers, educators, and
they are all doing incredible stuff within the industry. It might sound corny, but it’s satisfying to know that I’ve had a positive impact on so many peoples’ lives. My most fond memories are classroom experiences—times when things go well and you know that the students take away something from the lesson you‘re teaching. Hearing stories about them doing well or just seeing it indirectly through social media is so great. My connection to the college goes back a really long time—almost 45 years. My mom was an instructor and eventually the Director of Parkland campus. I remember going to the college with her in the evenings as a kid. My brothers and I would play in the classroom while she prepped for her classes. So, I’ve kind of always had this life-long connection to the college. Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with stage four cancer. It was a difficult time in my life and for my family. I had to go through eight weeks of chemotherapy in Winnipeg, and I didn’t know if I was going to get better. This job means a lot to me, and how I wanted to leave it really mattered to me. My family—my wife and two girls—is what kept me going. I fought for them, but also having a future at Assiniboine—something to work and progress towards, something to help me get back to some sort of normalcy, felt good. I knew that I could step away from the job and felt like the college had my back. You always hear people say, the job doesn’t care about you, look after yourself first, but you know, in a lot of ways the job gave me something to sort of pull toward. I was able to get back to my role as an instructor with the support provided by not only my family but also the community here at Assiniboine—it really is a community.
Significant Provincial Investment
Increases Rural Rotating Nursing Seats In December 2021, the Province of Manitoba announced an investment to increase capacity in nursing programs throughout Manitoba.
Assiniboine is receiving additional funding for three rural rotating sites (25 seats each), and an expansion of our existing Practical Nursing program in Portage la Prairie, which will enable us to welcome 35 learners each year, instead of every other year. “These additional nursing seats at Assiniboine Community College are integral in furthering our Skills, Talent and Knowledge Strategy to ensure people have more access to post-secondary education in Manitoba in sectors with high labour demand, like health care,” said Hon. Jon Reyes, Minister of Advance Education, Skills and Immigration. “Assiniboine’s rural rotating nursing sites are an important contributor to the province’s goal of increasing nursing seats in the coming year.” The demand for Assiniboine nursing graduates continues to be high; 100 per cent of practical nursing graduates surveyed from the 2019-20 academic year said they had jobs, making on average more than $53,000 a year. “Working with the province, the regional health authorities and the communities to deliver these rural rotating programs is an important part of our work to ensure we’re training nurses where they’re needed,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine. “The demand for nurses continues to be high. Offering rural rotating nursing sites helps to address the need for skilled graduates in all regions of the province.” In addition to rural rotating sites, the college has permanent Practical Nursing programs at its campuses in Brandon, Winnipeg, Dauphin and Portage la Prairie.
For the most up-to-date information on all nursing sites, visit assiniboine.net/nursing. 5
's e n i o b i n i s As
NEXT GENERATION OF AGRICULTURE BUILDING ON FLAGSHIP CAMPUS
The home of Assiniboine Community College’s continued expansion and relocation has a remarkable history pre-dating the college. The next chapter is still being written, and the college is working to make it a strong and impactful one for agriculture. As Assiniboine’s North Hill campus in Brandon continues its evolution, the next step—the future of training at Manitoba’s ag college—is the Prairie Innovation Centre. Nearly 15 years ago, Assiniboine’s North Hill journey began with the introduction of the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts (MICA) in the former Brandon Mental Health Centre’s Nurses’ Residence. This iconic heritage building was built between 1921-23 and has since become a renowned site for culinary and hospitality education at the college. It is also home to prestigious community events throughout the year, which serve as practical learning opportunities for students. The building blends modern learning spaces with a historic feel—from the classic heritage dining room to the state-of-the-art teaching kitchen and culinary theatre. And within these walls and throughout the entire North Hill campus, programming uniquely bridges the college’s School of Agriculture and Environment, tying the first venture of the North Hill campus in seamlessly with the next. “The agriculture industry is evolving to a place where technology and food innovations are fundamental to things like agronomy, farming or land management,” said Tim Hore, Dean of 6
the School of Agriculture and Environment at Assiniboine. “You can’t do one without having knowledge of the other parts.” Integration along the food chain has been a focus of Assiniboine since the college renewed its vision for agriculture, creating the aforementioned academic school, where traditional agriculture programs like Agribusiness were brought under the same umbrella as food and technology programs like Culinary Arts and Civil Technician.
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The agriculture industry is evolving to a place where technology and food innovations are fundamental to things like agronomy, farming or land management.”
The way the campus plan has unfolded to date enables a true Field to Fork experience. For example, some of the produce used in the Culinary Arts program is grown right on campus in the Sustainable Greenhouse and adjacent grow plots, which were additions to the campus in 2013. Through programs like Sustainable Food Systems and Horticultural Production, also housed at the North Hill campus, faculty researchers lead various applied research projects that both enhance industry innovation and sustainability, and give students hands-on experience. As Assiniboine edges closer to bringing the next significant development project to life, reflecting on the campus’s journey to date has made clear that it’s no fluke. New and expanded agriculture training is needed now, at a time when the labour gap in agriculture is growing to a point where it’s expected that one in three jobs in Canada will go unfilled by 2029. It’s needed here in Western Manitoba, where the college has the capability to combine indoor and outdoor learning spaces for seamless hands-on experimentation and training. The Prairie Innovation Centre has been a long time coming. In 2010, shortly after MICA was established, the college set its sight atop the hill to the former Pine Ridge Building, originally built from 1931-
32. This would become the Len Evans Centre for Trades and Technology. The building today welcomes students to the college’s School of Trades, and similarly to MICA, the facility itself is a delightful mix of old and new, as the former brick Pine Ridge building has been renovated and merged with a new steel structure. Another similarity to MICA—this building has various intersections with agriculture. There’s the obvious in programs like Agriculture Equipment Operator. But the industry and community needs connect as well. In fact, many of the industry partners who’ve come aboard the Prairie Innovation Centre project were also instrumental in this project and have been continued supporters of trades programming at the college. To reflect on the North Hill campus—the 15 years that have brought us here— we think of the countless ways that Assiniboine has connected with students, staff and the community. This campus has seen pillars like heritage, sustainability, innovation and partnership come together and will continue to do so as we eye the most ambitious college project to date in the Prairie Innovation Centre.
Video: Assiniboine’s North Hill Campus Journey
WATCH NOW
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INDUSTRY AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR THE
PRAIRIE INNOVATION CENTRE CONTINUES
The Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture is Assiniboine’s vision for the future of agriculture training and a Manitoba-made response to labour market gaps in the industry. As Assiniboine continues to engage partners who see the value in the future of agriculture in Manitoba, we have been fortunate to announce several new supporters in late 2021 and early 2022.
THE MANITOBA CROP ALLIANCE The Manitoba Crop Alliance (MCA) came aboard the Prairie Innovation Centre project with a $100,000 contribution to the Collaboration Zone, an integral piece of the Centre where education and industry connection will meet. MCA is an important organization in Manitoba’s agricultural landscape, representing five key commodities in the province: spring and winter wheat, sunflowers, corn, barley and flax. “The birth of MCA unified multiple organizations—a great example of evolving with industry needs, much like the college is looking to do with the Prairie Innovation Centre,” said Tim Hore, Dean, School of Agriculture and Environment. “The Prairie Innovation Centre is an important piece of tomorrow’s ag landscape, and we are grateful for support from partners like MCA, who are crucial to the success of the Centre.”
Assiniboine has a long and successful history of delivering agricultural programming that is responsive to the need for highly trained workers across the province. The Prairie Innovation Centre will be a hub for agricultural innovation and collaboration, and stand as the academic heart of agricultural and environmental education in Manitoba. “Students are the future of agriculture,” said Fred Greig, Chair of MCA. “MCA is proud to support the Prairie Innovation Centre Collaboration Zone at Assiniboine Community College as it will enable students to form strong connections within the agriculture industry. The new facility will greatly expand the College’s programming capabilities to educate more students, and will provide new opportunities to learn, connect and collaborate with each other and with industry professionals.”
RON AND VERA HELWER AND SHUR-GRO FARM SERVICES In November 2021, the college received a $500,000 contribution from Ron Helwer and Shur-Gro Farm Services, a long-time presence in Westman agriculture.
“I think it’s a great expansion, and it makes sense for the Westman area. Increasing local graduates in agriculture programs, that’s great for everyone, not just our business,” said Helwer, who is an honorary cochair of the Prairie Innovation Centre campaign cabinet.
“Ron is an agricultural institution in his own right, so it’s a thrill to welcome his support for what we know will be the future of agricultural education “To us, Assiniboine is really important and we are really pleased and in our province,” said Derrick Turner, Director, Advancement & External proud to be involved. When I look at where our people get educated, Relations at Assiniboine. “He’s a business leader and an influential voice Assiniboine plays a huge role. We are very supportive of the college. within the agriculture community, and we know that his partnership, People is what makes the business.” outside of any dollar figure, is invaluable.” Being a leader in the agriculture industry for more than 50 years, Ron Ron’s legacy in Westman began in 1968 when he and his late wife, Vera, recognizes the need to adapt with the sector. moved to Brandon where they started Shur-Gro Farm Services and raised their three kids. “The Centre aims to expand training capacity to better meet labour market demands, and it will also be a hub for agricultural education, innovation and applied research,” said Tim Hore, Dean, School of Agriculture & Environment. “This will give us the ability to collaborate and work with industry to transfer that knowledge to the ag sector.” 8
GORD AND DIANE PETERS AND THE BRANDON AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Adding another contribution to the campaign in December 2021, local community and business leaders, Gord and Diane Peters and the Brandon Area Community Foundation (BACF) donated $500,000.
This one-of-a-kind Canadian college project, to be located on Assiniboine’s historic North Hill campus, will bring together collaborative learning spaces, applied research labs and multipurpose spaces that will serve both industry and the college community.
The Peters’ are well-known for supporting various community projects, and in 2009, they set up a partnership with the Brandon Area Community “Here in Manitoba, we live in the Canadian food bank, and it is initiatives Foundation to facilitate long-term giving. like the Prairie Innovation Centre that will ensure the sustainability of the agricultural industry and a bright future for the next generation “Gord and I have long believed in giving back to the community and this of producers and agricultural business,” said Dan Robertson, Chair of project will not only be good for Brandon, but all of Westman. It will the BACF. serve the ag industry well but also provide a great number of training opportunities for the area’s youth,” said Diane Peters. “This remarkable support from two industry and community institutions, the Peters’ and BACF, both moves us toward our fundraising goal and “We are excited to contribute alongside other area businesses and reinforces the project as an important and necessary addition to the individuals to make this transformational project a reality,” added community and industry landscape.” said Derrick Turner, Director, Gord Peters. Advancement & External Relations.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT To kick off the new year, Assiniboine announced a $100,000 from local agricultural equipment dealer, Rocky Mountain Equipment (RME). “We feel this project and ag-related training at the college is extremely important in attracting today’s youth who have interest in the agriculture industry and the opportunities it presents,” said Jim Wood, Chief Sales and Operating Officer, Rocky Mountain Equipment. “Having a large footprint in the Manitoba community, RME has numerous Assiniboine graduates currently on staff, and our hope is this initiative helps attract new employees to RME and the ag industry in general, better equipping all to better serve the farming customer.”
In Manitoba, it’s projected that one in five jobs in agriculture will go unfilled by 2029. The Prairie Innovation Centre is Assiniboine’s madein-Manitoba solution and aims to expand seats in agriculture-related programming from 300 to more than 800. “As a hub for agriculture education, applied research and extension, the Prairie Innovation Centre will give the college the ability to collaborate and work with industry to extend or transfer knowledge not only to students, but also to the agriculture sector and producers in Manitoba,” said Tim Hore, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Environment at Assiniboine. Agriculture is a huge economic driver in Canada, and with the ag sector experiencing an increasing labour shortage, Assiniboine’s made in Manitoba solution aims to ensure the sector can meets its full potential as an economic driver in the Canadian and Manitoban economy.
DOUG & LAURIE MURRAY AND MURRAY AUTO GROUP Further into 2022, Assiniboine announced Doug and Laurie Murray and the Murray Auto Group contributed $100,000. “Assiniboine Community College is a staple in our community. We regularly hire graduates of the college in all areas of our operations, and are pleased with what they bring to our organization,” said Doug Murray, General Manager of Murray Auto Group. “The Prairie Innovation Centre, as important as it will be for the agriculture industry, will be important for our community and the Westman area. We recognize the significance of agriculture and are happy to support a project that will help ensure its prosperity.”
“We know that the future of agriculture belongs here at Assiniboine. A big part of why that is and why it’s possible is the outstanding community support we have from community members and businesses, some of which may not even be directly associated with agriculture,” said Derrick Turner, Director, Advancement & External Relations at Assiniboine. “This support furthers instills that this is the right project, at the right time, in the right community.”
The campaign to build this state-of-the-art facility on the college’s North Hill campus is Assiniboine’s largest philanthropic undertaking. 9
e l a m e F s e t e l h t A KICK INTO FORMERLY UNDERREPRESENTED TRADES When Hailey Burghart tells people she’s enrolled at Assiniboine Community College to become an electrician, she has received some interested looks.
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“I have to laugh at everyone’s expressions,” McKay, who is from Winnipeg, credits her said the 17-year-old student-athlete, while brother—a welder at Holland LP—as the reason standing in the Len Evans Centre for Trades and she decided to learn a trade and enrolled in Technology at Assiniboine’s North Hill campus. McGhie’s class at Assiniboine. “Their surprised look is usually followed by a ‘congrats’ that I’m in a trade, which is nice, but I “My brother was definitely my inspiration,” she always laugh at the expressions I get.” said with her welding helmet tilted up and holding an unlit torch in her hand. “If he can Burghart, who plays on Assiniboine’s women’s do it then I definitely can. I had a little bit of soccer team, is part of a growing contingent trepidation at first, but it was encouraging to of women who are finding homes in trade learn once we got started that half the class programs at Assiniboine. was made up of women.” On the pitch, the Swan River native plays defence for the Cougars. While her sport of choice frowns upon the use of your hands to play the ball; it’s the opposite in the classroom. “I love the hands-on work of being an electrician,” she said. “I really got a feel for becoming an electrician in high school, and it’s something that always interested me. Plus, I enjoy math so it’s a good fit … the teachers really know what they are doing and are easy to get along with, which makes it fun.” Her instructor, Dave Newman, said Burghart made an immediate impression on him with her work ethic and knowledge of the industry. “She’s one of my best students,” Newman said, while showing off some of Burghart’s projects at her work station. When Newman first started teaching at the college 15 years ago, he said it was almost unheard of to have a woman in the program. Slowly that began to change, and today he said every class he teaches has at least a couple of female students. It’s a demographic shift that’s been replicated in Jim McGhie’s welding class. “Half,” McGhie answered when asked how many of his students are women. “It’s incredible.”
There is so much to learn and gain experience in. The fact that you can create something out of nothing with just a few tools is something I find really rewarding.”
Burghart’s and McKay’s decisions to study at sport at the collegiate level has its challenges. Assiniboine come at an opportune time, as Road trips for out-of-town games often tradespeople are in high demand in Manitoba mean homework needs to be done on the and throughout Canada. Over the next eight bus, and time management is crucial for years, more than 700,000 tradespeople are student-athletes. It’s also something they expected to retire, according to research wouldn’t change. from the federal government, creating further demand for skilled workers. “My teammates are the best part about playing for the Cougars,” Burghart said with a smile. In Manitoba, it’s expected that 141,700 jobs “Everyone has been so friendly that it makes it a will open up between 2021 and 2025 with only lot of fun to play together. The coaches are also 112,100 new workers joining the labour force a great part of the team because they help you during the same period. This will leave many fix your mistakes and become a better player.” positions unfilled, according to the province’s Labour Market Outlook. It’s a sentiment echoed by McKay, who credits the team’s camaraderie as the best part about “Job openings in trades, transport and being a Cougar. equipment operator occupations are estimated at 27,500 or 19.4 per cent,” the report states. “It’s certainly not easy to do both school and play a sport, but I’ve been able to balance it to It’s those opportunities, which exist for welders the best of my ability,” McKay said. “And being across several industries, that McKay credits able to play the sport that I love again at a high as the reason she wants to earn her Red Seal. level is awesome. I’ve met so many new friends, and I wouldn’t give it up for the world.” “There is so much to learn and gain experience in,” she said, adding that her teachers have Opposite page: Cora McKay (top) been extremely helpful, and her friends and and Hailey Burghart (bottom). family have been supportive. “The fact that you can create something out of nothing with just a Below: Cora McKay (left) few tools is something I find really rewarding.” and Hailey Burghart (right). Both McKay and Burghart said balancing their classroom responsibilities while playing a
McGhie, who started teaching at the college 11 years ago, said there was typically one or two female students in each class at the beginning of his tenure. To see that grow to a 50-50 split is something he credits to changing societal attitudes. “Times have changed,” said McGhie, who teaches Burghart’s teammate, Cora McKay, in Assiniboine’s welding program. “Women are coming to the program with more hands-on experience … they come here and they’re eager and ambitious to learn, which is great.” 11
Assiniboine PROGRAMS RECEIVE ACCREDITATION
BUSINESS ACCREDITED BY ACBSP The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Associate Degree Board of Commissioners has awarded Assiniboine Community College accreditation of its business programs. ACBSP accreditation certifies that the teaching and learning processes within the business degrees and programs offered through Assiniboine Community College meet the rigorous educational standards established by ACBSP. Commitment to program quality and external recognition is an important part of the college’s Academic Plan. “This is a significant development for our business programs. This accreditation validates what we know to be true —we offer quality training that prepares graduates for excellence in business-related careers,” said Geoff Milne, Chair of Business at Assiniboine. “We value and trust the standards set forth by ACBSP, so we are proud to tell our students and the college community that our programs meet those standards.”
With more than 30 years of promoting excellence in global business program accreditation, ACBSP was the first organization offering specialized business accreditation for all degree levels, from associate to baccalaureate to doctoral degree programs. “Assiniboine Community College has shown its commitment to teaching excellence and to the process of quality improvement by participating in the accreditation process,” said ACBSP Chief Accreditation Officer Dr. Steve Parscale. “This accreditation is evidence that Assiniboine Community College is committed to providing the highest quality business education for their students.” Based on the Baldridge Education Criteria for Performance Excellence, ACBSP accreditation evaluates aspects of leadership, strategic planning, relationships with stakeholders, quality of academic programs, faculty credentials, and educational support to determine whether the business programs offer a rigorous educational experience and demonstrate continuous quality improvement.
AGRIBUSINESS ACCREDITED BY CPSA Assiniboine Community College combines classroom theory with hands-on learning, giving their students a comprehensive educational experience. All of their programs are designed to connect students with industries and communities for real-world experience and networking.
college, employers and the students. It tells employers that they can expect a high level of sales acumen from Assiniboine’s Agribusiness Diploma graduates.” says James Ellis, Agribusiness Program instructor at Assiniboine Community College.
In Assiniboine’s Agribusiness Program, students learn both the business and the science behind the industry. Skills covered include agronomy, GIS, GPS and computer applications, livestock production, communications, customer service, sales, marketing, and business management. The Customer Relations course allows students to develop the skills needed to succeed in a career in sales in the Western Canadian agriculture industry. Students select an agricultural product or service and participate in a comprehensive case study and accompanying role plays for the entire semester.
The Agribusiness Program at Assiniboine Community College is recently fully accredited by the CPSA and provides students with 35-hours of pre-requisite education needed to pursue their Certified Sales Associate (CSA) designation.
“It is no secret that much of our graduates’ success in the industry can be attributed to professional sales skills. This accreditation benefits the
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CPSA Institute Accredited Partners are industry leaders and top sales training companies that deliver results-driven information and insights that will position students to succeed, now and in the future. Accreditation is assurance that students are receiving rigorous, standards-based training that help them develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a complex, competitive marketplace.
ASSINIBOINE DELIVERS FREE
t n e m y o l p Em g n i n i a r T s l l Ski TO 34 YOUTH PARTICIPANTS
Assiniboine Community College’s Youth Employment Skills Strategy (YESS) program wrapped up its second successful offering at the end of November. The 11-week program was delivered to 34 participants, aged 15 to 30, in three rural communities—Dauphin, Russell and Waywayseecappo.
Assiniboine partnered with local employers in Dauphin, Russell and Waywayseecappo to provide work placements for each participant, including placements in health offices, restaurants, daycares, grocery stores, hotels and schools.
YESS aims to help youth make career decisions, create a career plan, develop workplace skills, and gain work experience to successfully “Our local employers have been very receptive transition into the labour market. to the program and support the participants in becoming good employees,” said Jane Delange. “I saw many improvements in participants, including an increased level of confidence, Upon successful completion of the program, more direction and planning for their future, job students receive a certificate of achievement. searching skills, communication and working hard to live a healthier lifestyle”, said Jane Assiniboine will be delivering the final offering Delange, instructor for the YESS program in of the three-year program in fall 2022. Dauphin. “It was rewarding to see these young Anyone interested in learning more about people determined to make a difference in their the YESS program is encouraged to contact current situation.” Continuing Studies at Assiniboine by email at continuingstudies@assiniboine.net or by The program, funded by the Government of phone at 204-725-8725. Canada Youth Employment Skills Strategy, is geared toward individuals with little or no Top: YESS participant, Shaydon Davis with Best significant work experience, and who may not Western Plus GM, Tim Spiller. have completed their high school education. Middle: YESS participant, Angel Bull, with “The program has benefited me by helping me Dauphin Express Manager, Nirav Dankhra. gain a ton of knowledge and valuable skills”, said Wynona Guiboche, a student of the YESS Bottom: YESS participant, Wynona Guiboche program. “I truly enjoyed the program and at Best Western Plus. encourage anyone looking to gain employment skills to take the program.”
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Different Paths
MEET AT ASSINIBOINE FOR HALL SISTERS In the last couple of years, it wasn’t uncommon to look out the window of Assiniboine Community College and see the Hall sisters walking to school together. Kelsey Hall, 24, Callista Hall, 22, and Krista Hall, 21, grew up in Virden as best friends, taking the same dance classes and hanging out together in high school.
Kelsey decided on the Early Childhood Education program at Assiniboine after hearing great things from people who were enrolled in the program or who had already graduated from it.
Hall sisters, 2008 (L-R: Kelsey, Krista, Callista)
As it turns out, they continued to hang out together in college, too.
“They have great instructors who help you grow and connect with your classmates and make sure you build that relationship so when you “We were all working, getting money saved up need the help, they’re there,” Kelsey said. “I also and getting some experience, and it all aligned really liked that (the program) had smaller class at a time we could go to college together,” sizes.” Kelsey said. Callista was more interested in science during “We sort of felt ready at the same time,” Krista high school, she said, and taking part in an event added. “Growing up, we did everything together, called The Envirothon—an environmental and so this was just another thing we did together.” natural resource high school competition that promotes problem-solving, team building and While their paths aligned, their passions did not. leadership experience while studying different topics in environmental science—changed From a young age, Kelsey said she always knew her outlook. she wanted to work with kids. She also knew she didn’t want to go to school too far from “I realized (environmental science) was exactly home and was looking into courses available the path I wanted to take,” Callista said. Looking in Brandon. at available programs at other institutions across Manitoba, Callista decided to enrol in 14
Clear Lake, 2011 (L-R: Kelsey, Callista, Krista)
the Land and Water Management program at Assiniboine, one of the reasons being that she really liked Assiniboine’s hands-on learning approach.
“We all went to school for something we were very interested in, and we were able to share our experiences in those classes with each other,” Callista said.
“I think it’s great because it gets you right into the environmental courses, and you get to learn by doing, you do all this hands-on stuff that is quite relevant to job experience,” Callista said.
When Covid-19 hit during their second year, the sisters said they also navigated the shift from in-class learning to distance learning together.
Krista’s interest in business was spurred by a scheduling error in high school. After being put in a business course she didn’t sign up for and couldn’t get out of, Krista said she ended up really enjoying it and went on to take other business classes throughout high school. Krista got a job in the accounting field and knew it was where she wanted to be, so she enrolled in Assiniboine’s Business Administration - Accounting Specialization program the following year.
“We had to put sticky notes on our doors letting the others know there was a Zoom in progress because we had the habit of just going into each other’s rooms and talking to each other,” Kelsey said with a laugh.
Oak Lake Beach, 2019 (L-R: Callista, Kelsey, Krista)
“It was definitely more challenging during exams because some of the exams were online, so we would be like, 'everybody be quiet for the next three hours,’” Krista said. “We all respected each other though and didn’t have any issues… we were all going through the same thing pretty much.” Kelsey, Callista and Krista graduated together in 2021, which made the achievement that much more special.
In going into their respective programs, the sisters decided to move to Brandon together, living together while attending college. “I was a little disappointed with COVID because we didn’t have the one giant ceremony… but Hall sisters in 2003 “We were used to living together anyway, and I was still glad we got to celebrate, and were (L-R: Krista, Kelsey [front], Callista) I’d rather live with my sisters than by myself,” able to get cap and gown pictures together,” Kelsey said with a laugh. “People would always Callista said. Kelsey went from learning at Assiniboine to ask my mom how it felt to have us go off to working at the The Assiniboine Early Learning college together all at once. She’d say ‘I know “We were pretty much the only ones there for Centre after completing her final practicum they’re better together, they have each other,’ each other, and our parents were big supporters there. and that was the main thing; she was at peace of course,” Kelsey said. “They were really proud, knowing we were together.” and I was really proud of my sisters.” “I fell in love with the environment, the children, the families and the staff were just incredible. I And the sisters agreed that living together was “(Our parents) thought it was the greatest thing knew it was a place my heart was set at,” Kelsey beneficial, as they were able to help each other that we got through school together and that said. “I really like being close to the college and be each other’s support system. we had each other throughout it,” Krista added. and staying involved … hopefully I can mentor future students to help with their practicums “We all took different things, but we were still Both Krista and Callista have since continued and education.” able to help each other. We'd quiz each other their studies. Krista is working toward her on things, read over assignments, stuff like that,” Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting through The Hall sisters said they were glad they not Krista said. the 2+2 program partnering with Athabasca only got to experience college together, but that University, and Callista is continuing her studies they all chose programs at Assiniboine. at Assiniboine for her Geographic Information Systems - GIS advanced diploma. “I strongly recommend (Assiniboine),” Callista said. “I loved my experience there.” Taking an advanced credential course through Assiniboine was a no brainer, Callista said. “I loved my program as well,” Kelsey added. “It We all went to school made me feel really good that (the instructors) for something we were “I loved my experience and immediately wanted knew who I was and were really supportive … very interested in, to keep going,” Callista said. “I’m learning so They made my experience a lot of fun.” much. I feel like after I’m done this, I’m going to and we were able to have that much more skill in the environmental share our experiences industry and its advancing technology … I’ll be in those classes with able to do more things.”
“ each other.”
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ASSINIBOINE DELIVERS
NEW, TUITION-FREE AG EQUIPMENT OPERATOR PROGRAM Assiniboine Community College is delivering a tuition-free Agriculture Equipment Operator program in partnership with the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) with the aim of helping meet a labour market need. The 14-week program started February 2022 at the college’s North Hill campus in Brandon and is open to Indigenous people living off-reserve. “This partnership is an important step in helping to meet an industry need and in providing learners, who may otherwise not have had the opportunity, with a chance to enrol in a program that offers a gateway to great job potential,” said Kevin Poirier, Dean, School of Trades at Assiniboine. “I’m pleased to welcome the support of CAP to help ensure that there are trained people who can step into areas of need so that the growing agricultural sector can reach its full potential.” The program, funded by CAP, will provide a foundation for students who wish to pursue careers in a rapidly changing and dynamic agricultural sector focused on primary production. “The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples’ Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program is a proud sponsor of Assiniboine’s Agricultural Equipment Operator (AEO) Program. A key objective of the ISET program is to provide skills training to off-reserve Indigenous people that address gaps in the labour market,” said Sarah Mitchell, National Project Coordinator with CAP. 16
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Removing the cost of training, a significant obstacle to employment, allows students to gain the skills and knowledge required for entry into the job market, without worrying about funding.” “Projected labour market shortages in this sector overall are significant, and CAP is happy to support an industry that is in need of skilled workers. CAP wishes every client in the AEO program the best of luck and a long and fulfilling career!” The program began with a one-week preparatory course and ends with an 80-hour paid work placement. Students training with skilled staff from Assiniboine will learn safe farming practices and the operational skills necessary
to manage multiple enterprises found on Canadian farms. “Producers across Manitoba are facing serious labour challenges and struggle to hire employees with the necessary skills to work on a farm,” said Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) president Bill Campbell. “The Agricultural Equipment Operator program will train participants with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful. KAP was pleased to help develop the program and provide industry input to align the curriculum with agricultural labour needs.” Students will have the opportunity to build ongoing industry contacts and meet potential employers as they take part in the regular tours, workshops, and events held nearby commercial operations and graduate with an industryrecognized credential. “Removing the cost of training, a significant obstacle to employment, allows students to gain the skills and knowledge required for entry into the job market, without worrying about funding,” said Assiniboine’s Director, Indigenous Education, Kris Desjarlais. “With this, learners are free to focus on their training in this handson learning environment.”
Researcher
RECEIVES FUNDING TO KICKSTART NEW SUSTAINABLE GROWING PROJECT
An Assiniboine-led research project to determine a low-environmental-impact growing media alternative to peat has received $25K funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) to help kick the project off. The research project, officially titled “Exploring new sustainable growing media for ornamental crop production”, began in December 2021. This grant will give Dr. Poonam Singh the opportunity to work through the initial phases of research, ultimately determining an appropriate peat reduced growing media for plant growth and development.
The project will see the college partner with Vanderveen’s Greenhouse Ltd. in exploring soilless growing media to partially or completely replace peat. If successful, Vanderveen’s will be the first greenhouse in Western Canada to use these new growing media for commercial greenhouse crop production.
“Peat is currently the most common, single-use growing media for “The results will encourage other nurseries/greenhouses in Canada ornamental crop production in Canada, but it’s extracted from sensitive and elsewhere to grow crops using these sustainable and eco-friendly ecosystems that sequester considerable amounts of carbon and store practices,” added Dr. Singh. excess precipitation,” said Dr. Singh. “Peat extraction results in the release of high carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, thus contributing Students in the Horticultural Production and Sustainable Food to the greenhouse gas effect and furthering the impact of climate change.” Systems programs will have the opportunity to complete work related to this project, and one student will receive the opportunity to work “The goal of this research is to identify a substitute for peat, thereby directly on the project, gaining valuable applied research training and lowering the environmental impact of ornamental crop production.” work experience. She says that identifying local, sustainable materials will also bring about alternative benefits, like reducing production costs and increasing efficiency.
Dr. Singh joined the college in 2015 and has since led and worked on various applied research projects aimed at adopting sustainable practices and improving the production of horticultural farms.
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BOTH NEW AND RENOWNED EVENTS
n r u t e R a e k Ma TO THE MANITOBA INSTITUTE OF CULINARY ARTS
Following a year with several event cancellations and format pivots, the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts (MICA) made a return to in-person events this fall—first with an all-new event, and then with the renowned Great Grey Owl restaurant. The triumphant return of MICA events introduced Farewell to Fall to celebrate the multitude of flavours that late fall brings. Culinary Arts and Baking Foundations students brought together a multi-course dinner, fused with self-serve appetizer and dessert action stations. The event, held on December 2, 2021 welcomed a total of 100 guests. Culinary Arts student, Aislyn Roulette appreciated the return to in-person events. “My favourite part of the events is working alongside my peers. I love learning new techniques,
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especially when they come from distinct backgrounds. Bonding and joking around is what keeps us going,” she said.
“Guests not only enjoy the great “In my eyes, teamwork is taste of food but also the beautiful important because no chef can appearance of food, and the do everything alone at once! It atmosphere of the restaurant,” was very nice to have guests in said second year Culinary Arts person because we need to learn Following Farewell to Fall, planning student, Shaomei Zhou. “People how to work on our social skills turned toward the highly- love to communicate with each and how to present ourselves anticipated Great Grey Owl. Last other when dining in and a proper as aspiring chefs as well as year, Great Grey Owl took a hiatus restaurant is a good place for them. showcasing what we have been from its traditional prestige and When guests dine in, we have the learning throughout the year,” offered an alternative format that chance to talk to them and learn said Roulette. was in line with the public health more about their ideas of the food orders at the time. While the ghost we offer, which is a good way to The return of Great Grey Owl kitchen, which offered delivery and improve ourselves.” was a success, with a full slate of pick-up for menu items inspired seatings for 62 guests for each of by small-dish Global Street Food, The event fulfills important the 10 evenings it ran. was a great alternative learning learning outcomes for students, opportunity, the return to tradition and both Roulette and Zhou agreed was welcome. that the in-person interaction with guests was a necessary experience.
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Guests not only enjoy the great taste of food but also the beautiful appearance of food, and the atmosphere of the restaurant.”
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ROAD TO EDUCATION
y l i m A Fa r i a f f A
FOR PARKLAND ALUMNI
Whenever Randall Munroe wrote a test, he made sure there was a little pink toque perched on the edge of his desk.
As a single father returning to s c h o o l , Munroe’s journey wasn’t easy. The little hat that once kept his daughter’s head warm on the way home from the hospital was a reminder of why he was doing it, and why he needed to keep going.
Mature Student High School at the college’s Parkland campus at the same time. Frances and her younger children—Munroe’s siblings—would leave their home in Roblin by 7 a.m., hit the gas station to fill up their little Kia Soul, and grab a coffee before driving an hour into Dauphin and getting everyone to school.
Juggling a single car and a long highway drive were the least of their challenges, Munroe said, adding that he was also going through a custody battle in Saskatchewan at the same time.
“There were times it was really stressful…Some days I would have to be in Regina for court and then try to get school done, so I was dealing with court issues all at the same time as doing After classes, Frances would collect everyone my homework. I spent a lot of time having that and head right back home, she said, where in the back of my mind while trying to learn,” Randall would be waiting. Munroe said. “I tried not to think about it and dug into my homework, my school, and it kept “My daughter was about nine months old when I first started going to school,” Munroe said. “I “It was just a hustle to get back home. (Randall) me sane. We’d have journal sessions in English, wanted to be an example for her when she got would be waiting at the door with his coat on and I’d write down my issues, which helped older, and I wanted to be able to provide for her.” because as soon as we walked in he had to a lot.” whip back (to Dauphin) for a six o’clock class,” And the road to further education was a family Frances said. “It was quite the experience… Having a good support system also helped, affair. Munroe and his mother, Frances, both We couldn’t all go to school during the day; we he said. enrolled in Assiniboine Community College’s had a baby, so that’s just the way it went.”
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“My mom was so supportive. I would text “I graduated at 50 years old. Having (Randall) Munroe is now working as a home care aide, her and ask how (my daughter) was doing.” graduate with me in his 30s … it was awesome,” but plans to continue his education and get his Munroe said. “Our instructors were also very Frances said. “In the end, I was really grateful Practical Nursing diploma. understanding and very supportive. They to go back to high school and pursue my Grade understood my situation and helped me quite 12 and then to inspire him to also pursue his. He hopes his journey inspires his daughter to a bit.” When you look back, I don’t know how we did follow in his footsteps, he said. it. But we did, and it’s amazing.” In their small class, Kristy Jamieson, Learning “When she sees me in scrubs, it will seem normal, Specialist at Assiniboine’s Parkland campus, Munroe wanted to continue his education, he and hopefully she’ll want to do it too,” Munroe said Munroe stood out. said, so he looked into the Comprehensive said. “I want to be a positive role model.” Health Care Aide program. After getting “I would notice when he’d pull out the little hat everything together that he needed to apply in Frances says that he already is. and put it on the table while he was writing a only two weeks, he was accepted. test, or if he had his hand in his pocket, I would “I’m so proud of him. This is what he wanted, know he was holding onto that hat in a time that and he went and did it,” Frances said. “He’s an was a little more trying,” Jamieson said. "It pulls awesome role model for his daughter. Not only on your heartstrings.” for his daughter, but for his siblings as well. They’re watching him do all this.” It was clear from the beginning that Munroe I’m so proud of him. had a goal and that he was determined to Munroe encouraged those who might be This is what he succeed, Jamieson said. considering furthering their education to just take the leap. wanted, and he went “He put the work in, took the extra credits, and and did it. He's an he got it done—which is not an easy task … he “Don’t focus solely on your end goal, take it stepawesome role model put in the effort, worked really hard and got that by-step,” Munroe said. “You can finish it, you diploma,” Jamieson said. “One of my favourite just have to start.” for his daughter. Not things about our adult learning program here only for his daughter, at Assiniboine is when we get students in who “It’s so easy for us to put ourselves down, when but for his siblings as have lived life for a little while and now realize do we ever lift ourselves up?” Frances added. they have a goal that they want to accomplish. “When we started all of this, I wasn’t sure if well. They’re watching They come in so determined to reach their goals, there was going to be a graduation at the end him do all this.” so to have even a little part in that is incredibly of it. I didn’t know if we were going to make rewarding.” it. But we did, and we’re all capable, with the “I never thought I’d be in this field; it just kind right mindset.” In 2020, Randall and Frances graduated of happened. I really love it,” Munroe said. “I together. A blown up picture of the two of love interacting with people and working with them—mother and son in their cap and gowns— people. I like taking care of people; I take care of hangs in both their homes. my daughter. I just like being able to make sure people are taken care of and that they’re safe.”
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ROTATING AT PARKLAND Assiniboine is introducing a suite of rotating trades programs at the college’s Parkland campus that will add Applied Electrical Installation and Applied Plumbing Installation to Applied Building Construction. The rotation will include Applied Building each year with Electrical and Plumbing alternating every second year. “Offering rotating trades at the Parkland campus is crucial to supporting regional learner needs and addressing the shortage of plumbers and electricians in the area,” said Kevin Poirier, Dean of Trades at Assiniboine.
All Parkland rotating trades programs will give graduates the opportunity to start a career in their chosen trade and further their apprenticeship training.
“Prompted from the success of the Carpentry and Woodworking program, we consulted with key stakeholders from the region, province and industry, and are excited to be taking steps to ensure training and career opportunities for local learners that will help meet the needs of the local trades industry.”
The college is now accepting applications for Applied Electrical Installation. Find out when the next information session is being held at assiniboine.net/infosession.
The next trades offering in Parkland will be Applied Electrical, starting in September 2022, followed by Applied Building Construction in February 2023. The next year will see Applied Plumbing and Applied Building Construction. “Parkland campus has so much to offer those in the region interested in training near to home. When we incorporate programs such as these rotating trades, it offers students opportunity without the burden of relocation,” said Valerie McInnes, Director, Parkland campus. “The aim of the Parkland campus is to enrich this region of the province and any time we can offer training that will lead to in-demand career opportunities, we are making great strides in continuing that enrichment.”
LEARN MORE assiniboine.net/appliedelectrical
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Offering rotating trades at the Parkland campus is crucial to supporting regional learner needs and addressing the shortage of plumbers and electricians in the area."
SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE AND ENVIRONMENT
ADDS NEW AG EXTENSION PROGRAMS
New agriculture extension programs at Assiniboine— Pesticide Certification and Drone Flight School—are bringing training opportunities to industry. With 40-hours of online training followed by a two-day flight school, “Both of these programs are a prime example of how Assiniboine is the Drone Flight School program is currently running from March 15 working with industry to identify needs and answering that call. These to May 31, and will prepare students for their special Flight Operations are opportunities to build skills that are necessary to keep up with the Certificate. advancements in agriculture.” Those who apply pesticide professionally in Manitoba must be certified and licensed in the province. The Pesticide Certification program prepares students for this certification exam. Assiniboine is the only institution in Manitoba to offer this preparatory course, with a monthly intake for the online program. “Assiniboine is a leader in providing quality agriculture programming and one of the main goals of the college is developing focused training opportunities that meet industry needs. Agriculture is constantly changing and responsive training for those already working in the industry is critical to staying current with new technologies and agronomy,” said Tim Hore, Dean, School of Agriculture and Environment at Assiniboine.
Agriculture extension is an integral piece of Assiniboine’s vision for agriculture training and micro-credentials to be offered through the Prairie Innovation Centre. This one-of-a-kind Canadian college project will bring together collaborative learning spaces, applied research labs and multipurpose spaces that will enhance the college’s ability to work with industry partners to expand extension programming and address emerging situations and issues. “The Centre will be recognized as a go-to problem solver for ag-related practical challenges and provide a space for industry and academia to seize new training opportunities,” said Hore. “We look forward to extending and transferring knowledge to enhance the competitiveness of the industry and primary agriculture producers in Manitoba.”
ADVANCED DIPLOMAS
at Assiniboine
Interested in additional education? Assiniboine offers advanced diplomas to enhance your training for careers in high demand. Layer your existing post-secondary with an Assiniboine advanced diploma to amp up your skills, stand out in hiring and create new opportunities.
Visit assiniboine.net/advanced for more information.
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ALUMNI
s e t a d p U
ANDREA EPP – BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (’97)
Andrea is the owner of Epp Law Office in Brandon and won a YWCA Women of Distinction Award in 2021. What was your favourite part of your time at Assiniboine? My favourite part of my time at ACC was definitely the people that I met while I was there. It was well over 20 years ago, and I still am in contact with many of them today. I was fairly new to Brandon and the social ACC atmosphere was a great way to meet people. Biggest/best takeaway? Maybe that helped you get where you are now? The most useful thing I learned there was computers. The everyday use of them was still relatively new at that point and learning the Microsoft Office (not sure it was even called that back then) basics was very helpful in my careers that followed. I also learned a great deal about accounting, finance and marketing which I had not previously been
exposed to. Those have all been part of my career path since that time and as a business owner now, the tools and techniques that I learned in my marketing class have been very helpful. What has been your career highlight so far? My career journey has been such a rollercoaster since my graduation in 1997 that I am not even sure whether I could pinpoint a career highlight. I have changed careers and employers over the years and each time I make a change, I feel like I’ve moved in a positive direction and things just can’t get any better yet it still does. I am still amazed at the strides that I’ve made since then both in the banking and legal industry and I’m very grateful for all of the opportunities that have been presented to me.
COLE DAVENPORT – INTERACTIVE MEDIA ARTS (’17) Cole is a journalist, anchor and producer, and was recently named the evening anchor for CTV Regina.
What was your favourite part of your time at Assiniboine? Being able to explore so many different aspects of media production. Working on Newsline is how I realized how much I enjoy working in TV news, anchoring in particular.
Biggest/best takeaway? Maybe that helped you get where you are now? Greg, one of my instructors, always said you have to work for the job you want, but you won’t always find it right out of the gate. The main takeaway: learn as many different things as possible. It made it much easier for me to eventually settle on what I wanted to specialize in.
Plus, I learned the necessary set of skills to become what’s known as a “Video Journalist”, essentially a one-man-band of TV news who shoots, writes and edits their own material. That wide skillset is what it takes to come into TV in 2022 and beyond, and it gave me a fantastic launching pad into the wider range of skills I have today.
Another point, particularly for anyone trying to make it in news: be willing to move to new places and listen to Murray’s advice. What has been your career highlight so far? Being able to anchor at five is a big one. We cover all of southern Saskatchewan, and that includes my hometown, so being able to share the stories of the day with them is an absolute privilege. I love doing it, even when the news cycle seems to be getting more and more intense.
CONDOLENCES The college community sends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Bob Edmundson, an Assiniboine alumnus who passed away in late 2021. Bob graduated from Business Administration in 1983 and was a well-known member of the Assiniboine, Brandon and Westman communities. He was a founding member of the college’s Alumni and Foundation Board and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
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Assiniboine and the staff and students fortunate enough to cross paths with Bob Simmons are mourning his passing and sending heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Bob was an institution at the college for many years, most recently teaching in Interactive Media Arts (formerly Broadcast Arts then Media Production) before his retirement in 2017. He passed in early 2022 and will be missed by so many.
ASSINIBOINE PARTNERING
WITH BRANDON FLIGHT CENTRE FOR AVIATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Assiniboine Community College is partnering with Brandon Flight Centre to deliver a new Aviation Management certificate program in fall 2022. The two-year program is open to both domestic and international applicants, and is an entry point for those looking for a career in the aviation industry. “Aviation is a key component in many industries in Manitoba, from agriculture and hydro to medical transport and access to northern and remote communities,” said David Creighton, CEO of Brandon Flight Centre. “This program will help to support those essential services by providing high quality training from within the communities they serve.” The program will provide students with the core competencies to succeed through specialized business courses with industry-specific content, including project management, mathematics for pilots, marketing principles and ethical responsibilities. “Delivering this program is a great fit for Assiniboine’s aim to meet industry and community needs through responsive
programming,” said Michael Cameron, Dean, Community Development. “Assiniboine is looking forward to a partnership with Brandon Flight Centre that will provide learners who are interested in aviation with a great opportunity to launch this dynamic and in-demand career.” The Aviation Management certificate will provide many available career paths for graduates, including work on commercial and regional airlines, cargo and military flying, or more local options like working in agriculture or instruction. “Whether you are looking to see the world, or be home every night with your family, there are many different opportunities to choose from,”
said Creighton. “We are confident that this will provide the best training to prepare our students for the emerging future of post-pandemic aviation.” The program is designed as a starting point and requires no previous flight experience. Graduates of the program will receive a Transport Canada issued Commercial Pilot License, a minimum of 200 hours of flight time and the business knowledge necessary to get started in an aviation career. Applications for this program are currently open. For more information on the Aviation Management program, or to apply, visit assiniboine.net/aviation.
SPRING/SUMMER EGUIDE NOW AVAILABLE
To view the eGuide, visit assiniboine.net/csguide. Continuing Studies at Assiniboine 204-725-8725 | continuingstudies@assiniboine.net
ATHLETES FIND
Mental Boost AMONG TEAMMATES
Finding strength in numbers, two goaltenders from Assiniboine Community College credit sports with helping them keep a positive mental hygiene during the pandemic. Dawson Brooks and Tess Omeljanow are goal keepers for their respective Cougars soccer and futsal teams. For Omeljanow, 21, the pandemic hit hard and fast. “I jumped pretty much right into the deep end in college, [starting] in the middle of the pandemic,” she said. Her college introduction came after spending a few gap years working after high school, and the pandemic, she says, had a noticeable impact on her first year of post-secondary education. Now in her second year in the Social Service Worker diploma program, she said her peers, instructors and teammates have helped her through what would have otherwise been a more difficult time. Even when classes weren’t held in person, she said her classmates would regularly come together to check in on one another. “In that way, I didn’t lose much from my college experience because of the class closeness,”
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she said, adding that the socialization she experienced through the soccer and futsal teams also helped etch out a social life she might not have otherwise had. “We’re always there for each other. [We’re] definitely not alone in this.” Playing soccer and futsal, she says also kept her busy.
“We’d rather stand outside in the freezing cold [together] than be alone inside,” he said. The soccer team endured a difficult season in the standings this year, which he said they learned to take in stride. This helped them bond as a team and taught them how to keep pushing forward through adversity. The futsal team is doing much better, and he said it’s at least partly because of their experience.
“It definitely helped my motivation … Mental health wise, it’s very difficult when you’re sinking under assignments and work and stuff, “When your teammates make a mistake, try to so [athletics] is just a way to release and be pat them on the back and say it’s okay, because free and hang out with your teammates to get playing at this level, you’re going to make you away from it.” mistakes.” Brooks, 19, shares a similar experience with his men’s soccer and futsal teams. A self-described “introvert” from Hamiota, the first-year Media and Communications student said the pandemic hasn’t hit him as hard as it has for some of his peers, but that the time he has spent with his teams has been essential.
Having this group of people in his life has been integral, Brooks said, and is in stark contrast to the isolation he felt earlier in the pandemic, when just about everything in his life was being done remotely. “You felt very alone at times,” he said. Pandemic-era health restrictions also hit Omeljanow hard, exacerbating previous
challenges—she has been dealing with depression and anxiety for the past five years. The divisions of opinion brought about by the pandemic compounded things, she said. If she were able to go back in time and talk to her first-year self now, she’d tell her to take better advantage of whatever social opportunities that arose. “Even though it’s hard, I’m still pushing through it and I’m proud of myself for that, just as I’m proud of my peers and teammates.” Brooks offered a similar sentiment, noting that if he could go back in time and talk to his former self on his first day at Assiniboine, he’d tell him to “stop worrying.” “Have some fun,” he said. “You can drop a pin on the first day of class, and it will echo down the hallway because everyone is so nervous. They’re just so scared of standing out. Just chill, man, have some fun. Your day will go a lot faster, and you’ll just have a lot more confidence.” Brooks said it can be easy to take things too seriously and that it was the women’s teams and outlook that taught him to relax during their time spent travelling to games together. “The women’s teams were just loud and fun,” he said, which helped put everyone at ease and better enjoy themselves. Both Brooks, an introvert, and Omeljanow, who has social anxiety, plan on entering fields where social interaction is front and centre. Brooks plans on working with musicians in studios, and Omeljanow will be working in social services. They both agree that pandemic or otherwise, social skills are integral to whatever paths they forge and that their experiences in sports have helped set them up for success.
We’d rather stand outside in the freezing cold [together] than be alone inside.”
$100K
Bell Let’s Talk Grant Assiniboine Community College has been announced as a recipient of the Bell Let’s Talk Post-Secondary Fund, with an Implementation Grant that will total $100,000 over two years. This follows last year’s $25,000 kickoff grant from Bell Let’s Talk that the college received to support research into student wellbeing. The grant will go toward Assiniboine’s Peer Support Program for Wellness, which will build the following benefits and supports to student mental health: » Additional supporters - trained students to guide and empathize with students » Referrals - students equipped with knowledge of campus and community resources » Healthy and safe spaces – physical and virtual spaces where students can collaborate with and support each other » Education opportunities - trained students to facilitate sessions to other students “If students are not holistically well, they cannot learn effectively and there is evidence-based literature related to post-secondary student wellness that suggests that peer support is one of the most effective means of increasing student wellness,” said Brandy Robertson, Wellness Student Success Advisor at Assiniboine. According to a release from Bell Let’s Talk, the 2021 survey by the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations concluded that the pandemic has not only worsened pre-existing mental health challenges in 78% of students, but it has created new challenges for 64% of students. “Anxiety and depression are the most prevalent mental health concerns for students, compounded by the uncertainty of this pandemic. Isolation has led to social anxiety for a lot of students attending classes on campus. Stress levels are often heightened for longer periods of time, which has a significant impact on wellbeing,” said Robertson. The college collaborated closely with the ACC Students’ Association to plan for the success and sustainability of this important grant and wellness project.
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Starts September 2023!
YOUR MBA HAS NEVER BEEN CLOSER. On campus | In Brandon | On Weekends Interested in earning your MBA? Looking for a flexible program to balance your work, family and school life? A partnership between Assiniboine Community College and Cape Breton University, the part-time Master of Business Administration in Community Economic Development degree program is built for working professionals. Study and work at the same time, and earn your master’s in two years!
Join us for an online program information session to learn more about the MBA program and if it’s the right fit for you.
TUESDAY, MAY 10, 2022 | 5 P.M.
Victoria Avenue East campus | Register at assiniboine.net/infosession
assiniboine.net/mba
