Canadian Colleges fueling Canada's clean economy transition with fully funded microcredentials

Quick Train Canada provides demand-driven workforce training solutions across Agriculture & Agri-food, Indigenous engagement, Transportation, Construction, Clean Tech, and Natural Resources & Environment 

HAMILTON, ON, Feb. 22, 2023 /CNW/ - Canadians from coast to coast to coast can now access fully funded microcredentials to help to increase skills and competencies and prepare them to meet the needs of Canada's shifting economy.

Today, the Government of Canada announced it is investing $46.5M in Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2), a coalition led by Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology focused on developing demand-driven workforce training solutions for a clean economy through the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP). As a result of this investment, C2R2 has launched Quick Train Canada, offering microcredentials from select accredited institutions across Canada targeted at upgrading skills in crucial sectors targeted at Canada's low-carbon economy - all at no cost to learners.

"The transition to the new low-carbon economy will demand a well-trained workforce and Canada's colleges and aligned institutions are well-equipped to develop and deliver the programs to prepare people for those exciting new careers," said Ron J. McKerlie, President and CEO of Mohawk College, where C2R2's administration and secretariat are managed. "The Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery coalition has developed Quick Train Canada to provide Canadians with a direct link to thousands of training and research opportunities to help Canadians access good jobs. We are excited to support the transition to the low carbon economy while fostering inclusion, diversity, and equity throughout the process."

Quick Train Canada provides Canadian workers and employers with options to update skills quickly, increasing job security and participation as Canada's economy transitions to more sustainable, low-carbon practices.

Whether students are experienced tradespersons upgrading their skills to adapt to evolving green construction techniques, new graduates improving their understanding of sustainable manufacturing, or those planning for future clean-tech or electric vehicle-focused job opportunities, the comprehensive offering of courses provides flexible, targeted upskill opportunities for all Canadians.

"As Canada strives to meet its 2050 net-zero emissions target, there will be significant demand for professionals skilled in green building design, construction and deep-carbon retrofits," said Thomas Mueller, President and CEO of the Canada Green Building Council. "With jobs in the sector poised grow to 1.5 million by 2030, access to training for existing workers or new entrants to the sector is critical. Quick Train Canada can play an important role by making training accessible to more Canadians and help grow the workforce needed for the low-carbon economy." 

The available microcredentials are offered in various formats, including hybrid, in-person, online at your own pace, or online scheduled, allowing learners to participate in courses that best suit their schedule. Over 25 microcredentials are available for Canadians to register, with additional ones added regularly.  More courses will be added in Spring/Summer 2023 and further for next fall and into winter 2024. 

With courses across Agriculture & Agri-food, Indigenous Engagement, Transportation, Construction, Clean Tech, and Natural Resources & Environment, Canadians can prepare for the jobs of tomorrow at Canada's Colleges today. 

About Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2)

Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2) is a coalition of 14 highly aligned colleges, cégeps, institutes, and polytechnics across Canada with an established commitment to sustainability. The coalition members have come together as a driving force, providing the skills required to transition to a clean economy in Canada. They are positioned to support workforce upskilling and bridge the skills gap across Canada.  C2R2's administration and secretariat are through Mohawk College in Hamilton, Ontario.

For more information and a complete list of available courses, visit quicktraincanada.ca or voierapidecanada.ca

SOURCE Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recover (C2R2)

To request an interview, please contact: Bill Steinburg, Senior Media Relations & Communications Advisor, Public Affairs, t- 905-575-2408, m-905-870-3097, [email protected], Office of the President, C115 - 135 Fennell Ave. West, Hamilton ON L9C 0E5, www.mohawkcollege.ca @mohawkcollege