Canada: new partnership for training future nuclear workforce

Canada’s nuclear sector employs 89,000 people, but 30% of this workforce is over 50 and will retire in the next few years. To address the issue, Ontario Tech University and Humber Polytechnic have announced a partnership to train new nuclear energy professionals. The two schools will offer training programs that combine academic and practical experience, preparing a highly skilled workforce. According to Steven Murphy, president and vice-chancellor of Ontario Tech University, there is a need for a larger and more prepared workforce to support the industry’s expansion and modernization, especially in Ontario, where more than 60% of electricity is produced through nuclear power. The partnership between Ontario Tech and Humber creates a consortium that includes universities, colleges, and polytechnics across the country with expertise in all aspects of the nuclear sector. All this expertise, together with that of the two leading institutions, will create a workforce capable of meeting future energy needs and driving job growth and innovation.
Ontario Tech University is the only accredited Canadian institution offering a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering and will provide specialized training for young engineers. In parallel, Humber will train the industry’s skilled tradespeople, such as welders and boiler makers. Murphy said that students in the program will gain practical knowledge in nuclear operations, safety protocols, and emerging technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs). There will also be training courses in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and business management. Ann Marie Vaughan, president and CEO of Humber Polytechnic, said that the nuclear energy sector is experiencing unprecedented growth and transformation, requiring a highly trained workforce proficient in nuclear technology, safety protocols, and emerging innovations. For Muphy, this new workforce could contribute to Canada’s transition to clean energy, offering a more ideal and professional path for young students interested in addressing climate change. Both national and provincial authorities recognise and promote nuclear power as an important part of a diverse and sustainable energy strategy. Last month, the Ontario government announced plans to establish the province as North America’s nuclear powerhouse, involving the construction of one of the largest nuclear plants in the world and the creation of over 10,000 jobs. Meanwhile, the federal government is investing in the production of SMRs, with the first set to begin operation in 2029.