June 20, 2022
Training program launches to help up-skill and re-skill workers to support rapid tech sector growth across Atlantic Canada
June 20, 2022 – Halifax, NS – Digital Nova Scotia, in partnership with Bluedrop ISM officially opened applications for Skills For Hire Atlantic today, with an open call to tech enthusiasts looking to re-skill and up-skill. Designed to address the demand for skilled workers in web development and data analytics, up to 300 participants will be accepted to participate in a virtual, flexible, no-cost 20-week training program commencing August 2, 2022.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program, Skills for Hire was built in collaboration with industry professionals to help participants develop valuable skills, a solid foundation, and the confidence needed to find meaningful job opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors. After successfully completing a three-year pilot of the Skills for Hire program in Nova Scotia, Digital Nova Scotia received renewed funding to expand the initiative across Atlantic Canada, delivering the program in both French and English to participants from Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.
One of our strategic areas of focus is supporting the tech sector by addressing current and future workforce needs, and this program is an innovative route to help address the need for more skilled entry-level talent in the ICT and digital technologies sector.” says Wayne Sumarah, CEO of Digital Nova Scotia. “We’ve seen proven success from this program and are pleased to collaborate with partners across Atlantic Canada to develop entry-level talent to better support the high demand of our sector.”
“Training more Canadians in the skills that the market needs, like those required in the technology sector, is one of the smartest investments we can make right now. We’re supporting organizations like Digital Nova Scotia to equip workers with skills that enable them to not only participate in the workforce, but to thrive in it,” said Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough.
The technical skills-building program will be coupled with career development sessions, live tutorials, and industry connection opportunities. The program has been developed based on industry feedback and partnerships. By working with local employers to understand their entry-level talent needs, the Skills for Hire Atlantic program will provide program participants with alternative training paths, to match their interests.
“Taking the courses from Skills for Hire was the best decision I made in decades, they give me the tools and the knowledge for the pursuit of a new career in IT. I learned more than hard skills and technical knowledge; they also taught me important networking skills, job hunting and how to present myself with recruiters and interviewers. It has been truly life-changing. With the help of the Skills for Hire courses and instructors, I have successfully transitioned careers and now I work as a cybersecurity analyst.“ Diego Romero, Skills for Hire Graduate
Skills for Hire Atlantic is an opportunity for program participants and industry organizations alike. Creating a career path in one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, while leveraging short-term training to produce entry-level talent and an increased talent pool.
“At every point in our lives we develop new skills, many of which are transferable and valuable. Our Skills for Hire Atlantic Program provides participants with the opportunity to combine what they have learned and experienced, with the technical and professional skills needed to take on a new challenge. It’s this combination that has helped fuel the success of the Skills for Hire program to date.” says Sumarah.
Two learning streams will be offered through the 2022 Skills for Hire Atlantic Program based on industry feedback. Applications are now open for web development and data analytics.
More information can be found at skillsforhire.ca.
Media Contact
Caitlin Patterson, Director of Marketing & Communications