Education: Sisler Create

In 2018, the Schroeder Foundation made a transformative investment of $1.3 million to equip and operationalize the Sisler CREATE program. This crucial funding laid the foundation for the program’s success, providing the necessary resources to develop and establish a high-quality curriculum in digital automation, cybersecurity, graphic design, and motion picture arts. The investment enabled the program to offer cutting-edge technology, industry-relevant tools, and hands-on learning experiences that set students on a path to success in some of the most dynamic and rapidly growing fields.

Since the initial investments, The Schroeder Foundation has continued to support and expand the program, with a new $1.745M investment, establishing a high benchmark for excellence in the program.

• One-Time Investments

• • $200,000: For server and desktop upgrades to support the cybersecurity program. This upgrade will provide students with access to cutting-edge technology and hands-on experience in cybersecurity, preparing them for careers in one of the most critical fields in today’s workforce. 
  • $305,000: For scholarship support to attend Vancouver Film School (VFS) and RRC Polytech. These scholarships offer talented students the opportunity to study at one of the world’s top institutions for creative arts, ensuring they have the education and resources necessary to pursue careers in digital automation and related fields.

• Four-Year Annual Investments

• • $90,000 ($30,000 annually for two years): To fund three Vocational Teaching Assistants. These positions are filled by former Sisler CREATE graduates who bring both industry experience and an understanding of the program’s demands. Their mentorship will ensure students receive guidance from those who have successfully navigated similar career pathways, providing valuable insight into their future careers.
  • $50,000: For an Equipment Upgrade Fund to ensure students have access to the latest tools and technology necessary for their learning and creative projects. By providing up-to-date equipment, the Foundation aims to help students stay competitive in their fields and ensure they can complete assignments using the same resources they will encounter in the professional world. This investment in modern equipment will empower students to explore their potential, enhance their skills, and prepare for future success in their chosen careers.
  • $52,500: For the Student Experience Fund, which will provide students with opportunities for industry exposure through travel to key locations such as Los Angeles, Montreal, and Toronto. This exposure will broaden students’ professional networks, deepen their understanding of industry practices, and give them a broader perspective on their chosen career paths.
  • $42,000: A partnership with Wacom to supply 60 tablets annually to incoming students enrolled in Sisler CREATE’s postgraduate program. This partnership will equip students with the tools they need to succeed in digital arts, animation, design, and other creative fields, ensuring they have the equipment to hone their skills and produce professional-level work.
  • $75,600 ($37,800 bi-annually): To sustain the Schroeder Foundation Bursary Program, which is awarded twice per year. This program provides critical financial support to students who demonstrate exceptional talent and commitment to their studies. By alleviating financial burdens, the bursary program enables students to focus on their academic and career goals, ensuring they have the resources to succeed in their educational journey.

As part of its earlier commitment of $1.3 million, the Schroeder Foundation also allocated bursaries specifically designed to support Sisler High School’s top students. This commitment is part of the Foundation’s ongoing effort to support and nurture the potential of Winnipeg’s youth.