President's Biography
Neil Cooke
President and CEO
Neil began his appointment as President and CEO of the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) in July 2023. He brings considerable academic and leadership experience, extensive industry relationships, a commitment to EDI, and knowledge of MITT’s unique model and culture.
Prior to taking on this role, Neil was the Vice-President of Academic, acting as the academic lead for over 30 programs in six areas of study within secondary and post-secondary programming and overseeing the college’s student support services.
Before arriving at MITT, Neil was the Vice-President of Academic at Confederation College in Thunder Bay, Ontario. While at Confederation, he was the academic lead responsible for 58 programs in 11 areas of study across eight regional campuses. Before this, he was the Manager of Education and Training for the Manitoba Trucking Association and spent 21 years at Red River College Polytechnic, where he held various teaching and senior administrative roles, including Dean of Teaching Excellence Innovation and Research.
In 2014, Neil was appointed to the Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and continues in this role. He has been involved in numerous applied research activities in the transportation sector and is a recipient of the Natural Science and Engineering Council Synergy Award for Innovation and the Province of Manitoba Award for Innovation and Research for Sustainability.
True to his educational roots, Neil is a lifelong learner. He is a journeyperson holding interprovincial certification as a heavy-duty technician and provincial certification as a truck transport technician. He also holds a Certificate in Adult Education, a Vocational Education Diploma, a Bachelor of Science in Technical Education and a Master of Education in Post-Secondary Administration.
In addition to his experience in post-secondary education, Neil has been an active volunteer within his community, contributing his time to youth sports programs and as a Habitat for Humanity board member.
Contact us today and we will be more than happy to help you with any questions or concerns you have.