May 29th was an electric night for two deserving RRC Polytech faculty members.
Evan Himelstein, Chair of Electrical Engineering Technology, and Phil Klassen, Instructor in Electrical Engineering Technology, were honoured for their outstanding contributions to education and the engineering technology profession at the 2026 Certified Technicians and Technologists Association of Manitoba (CTTAM) Presidents' and Awards Dinner.
The event, which took place at FortWhyte Alive, brought together industry leaders, educators, and members of the engineering technology community to celebrate excellence and service across Manitoba.
Prestigious Honorary Member Award
Evan Himelstein was awarded one of the association's highest distinctions: the CTTAM Honorary Member Award.
"I am humbled and deeply honoured to be recognized in this way. My work has always been driven by a commitment to advancing engineering technology education and supporting student success, and I'm grateful to contribute to a profession that plays such a vital role in our communities," he said.
The Honorary Member designation is a lifetime title granted to non-members who have rendered distinguished service to CTTAM or to the engineering technology profession. The award is conferred only with unanimous approval of the Board of Directors and carries no fees or dues.
Himelstein was recognized for his leadership in advancing engineering technology education through the development of innovative programs and his ongoing commitment to student success. His work has strengthened connections between post-secondary education and industry, helping ensure graduates are well prepared to meet the evolving needs of Manitoba's workforce.
Instructor Excellence Recognized
Phil Klassen was honoured with the 2026 CTTAM Instructor Award, which recognizes excellence in teaching and a strong commitment to student learning and professional development within the engineering technology field.
"I would like to thank CTTAM for this award and am very honored that I was selected this year," said Phil Klassen. "CTTAM has done a lot for our students and grads over the years and that is very appreciated. They are the pathway for our students' future professional life."
Advancing Student and Industry Success
RRC Polytech's Electrical Engineering Technology program - which recently celebrated 60 years of excellence at RRC Polytech - prepares students for careers as engineering technologists in the electrical industry, such as in electrical utility systems, consulting engineering and electrical manufacturing.
