The advent of new technologies, automation and green innovation is accelerating change across Canada's economy. As industries evolve and new ones emerge, both employers and workers are under pressure to adapt. Targeted upskilling has become one of the most effective ways to build resilience, support growth and stay competitive.
Canadian workers are among the most educated globally; however, the availability of skilled workers in advanced manufacturing, clean technology and agricultural technology is falling behind industry demand, according to Deloitte's 2023 Macroeconomic Analysis of Canada's High-Growth Sectors. In fact, 80% of Canadian advanced manufacturing companies reported a skills gap, with only 13% of manufacturers at an advanced stage of digital transformation.
In clean energy, jobs are projected to grow 4% annually until 2030. However, 38% of clean tech companies cited skill deficits as a barrier to hiring. While Canada's agri-food sector is well-positioned for global leadership, it must also mitigate labour shortages and barriers to technology adoption.
Addressing the Needs of High-Growth Sectors
To address the evolving labour market demands among these industries in Canada, Selkirk College is delivering new micro-credentials in partnership with Colleges and Institutes Canada's Upskilling for the Innovation Economy program. Funded by Upskill Canada, powered by Palette Skills and the Government of Canada, the program is designed specifically for mid-career workers to bridge the gap between existing skillsets and the evolving needs of high-growth sectors.
Short-term but high impact, these upskilling programs offer a hybrid of online learning and hands-on training, allowing participants to gain relevant expertise, all while continuing to work. Graduates will earn a certificate, enhance their qualifications and boost their career mobility.
The curriculum was developed through a collaborative process led by Colleges and Institutes Canada, working with numerous post-secondary institutions, businesses and industry experts across Canada. This industry-informed approach ensures that the programs target real skills gaps that can be applied immediately in these priority sectors.
Build Skills and Stay Competitive
"Our college is proud to be part of this national initiative to close skills gaps in high-growth industries," says Dr. Terri MacDonald, director of applied research & innovation. "These micro-credentials give working professionals the opportunity to build specialized skills and stay competitive, without putting their careers on hold. It's a practical, high-impact way we can support local industry and help our communities thrive."
Selkirk College is offering:
There is a growing demand for data-driven decision-making and automation in advanced manufacturing sectors. The program will focus on system integration, Python programming, data representation, and project management. It's designed for manufacturing workers, including assembly operators and technicians, aiming for specialized roles in IIoT.
Participants will learn CAD/CAM technologies, tool-pathing and data analysis for optimizing manufacturing processes to support digital transformation and productivity improvements across Canada's industrial manufacturing base. The program is designed for manufacturing workers including millwrights, machinists, technologists and technicians, virtual designers, and data analysts looking to enhance digital literacy skills.
Each program is designed to be practical and affordable, with funded tuition and only a $200 registration fee once accepted.
