The McKenna Institute at the University of New Brunswick, the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) and Thales announced today (Nov 27) the first cohort's completion of a new 12-week program that is helping Indigenous people in New Brunswick move from foundational IT training into in-demand cybersecurity careers.
"The future of New Brunswick's digital economy must be built by and for all of our communities," said Kathryn Lockhart, Executive Director of the McKenna Institute. "By partnering with organizations like JEDI and Thales, we're cultivating a more inclusive, future-ready workforce that reflects the diversity of our province and drives sustainable growth in the digital age."
Hosted at Thales' National Digital Education Excellence Centre (NDEC) in Fredericton's Cyber Centre, the 12-week program offers immersive, hands-on experience in a real-world innovation setting. The first cohort ran from September to November, giving participants the opportunity to apply the foundations they've gained through JEDI's IT training program as they develop, test and refine cybersecurity tools. Participants collaborated with Thales professionals and benefitted from the mentorship of JEDI's experienced instructors.
"This partnership reflects our shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth in cybersecurity," said Nisa Kennedy, Acting CEO of JEDI. "Together, we're helping Indigenous youth to gain the knowledge and experience they need to thrive in an in-demand field, while bringing diverse perspectives that strengthen the field for everyone."
The program, co-designed by the McKenna Institute, Thales and JEDI, reflects current industry needs and provides experiential opportunities at Thales. By focusing on practical skills and real-world projects, the program aims to help students transition directly into the workforce upon completion.
"By investing in Indigenous communities through hands-on training and strategic partnerships, we're building a more inclusive digital future for New Brunswick," said Cara Salci, Vice President, Growth, Industry and Corporate Affairs at Thales Canada. "This program is a powerful example of what's possible when education, industry and community come together to create lasting impact."
The program represents a collective commitment from the McKenna Institute, JEDI and Thales to empower Indigenous students and contribute to a stronger cybersecurity ecosystem in New Brunswick. In addition, this is an example of the continued delivery of Thales' commitments to Canada. Through hands-on training, expert mentorship and collaboration between leading institutions, the program seeks to prepare graduates for successful careers in cybersecurity, meeting the growing demands of this crucial sector.
About the McKenna InstituteThe McKenna Institute fuels economic growth and social progress by advancing the use of digital technologies in New Brunswick. The Institute collaborates to accelerate our talent pipeline, nurture ideas and enable all New Brunswick communities to thrive in a digital world.
About JEDIThe Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) is a leading Indigenous organization dedicated to working with partners to foster Indigenous economic development in New Brunswick. Founded in 1995, JEDI provides its clients with a variety of Indigenous business and workforce development services. JEDI programs include Business Incubators and Accelerators, Advanced ICT Training, Trades Training, and Digital and Financial Literacy Training.
About Thales CanadaA Canadian leader in research and technology, Thales Canada combines more 50 years of experience with the talent of more than 1,400 skilled people from coast-to-coast. Thales Canada offers leading capabilities in the defence, aerospace, cyber and digital identity markets - meeting the most complex needs and requirements of its customers across all operating environments.
