Iron and Earth announces program expansion to help workers upskill for net-zero economy
by CM Staff
The SWSP helps key sectors of the economy implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs by funding organizations to deliver projects that focus on a range of industry-driven activities.
CALGARY — Iron and Earth announces the expansion of its existing programs and adds new initiatives to increase the number of workers ready to meet the demands of Canada’s growing green economy.
- 2200+ participants in Iron and Earth’s training and upskilling programs.
- 57 community sessions.
- Provide renewable energy career transition options, tools, and resources.
- A revamped Climate Career Portal for workers, employers, and educational institutions interested in a transition to a greener economy.
Iron & Earth has received $16M in new funding through the Government of Canada’s Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program. The SWSP helps key sectors of the economy implement solutions to address current and emerging workforce needs by funding organizations to deliver projects that focus on a range of industry-driven activities.
As a national not-for-profit organization founded by fossil fuel workers in 2016, Iron & Earth provides programs designed to empower energy industry workers, Indigenous Peoples, and their communities to work in the renewable energy sector.
The funding will support Iron & Earth’s efforts to work with employers who are seeking skilled workers who want to be part of the Clean Economy. A 2021 Iron & Earth/Abacus poll found that 8 out of 10 workers surveyed were interested in training for jobs in the net-zero economy. The SWSP – funded initiatives will help those workers gain access to sustainable and meaningful employment and ensure the programs are available to equity-deserving groups, including Indigenous Peoples.
“There’s a growing demand for skilled workers in the low carbon economy. It is imperative we minimize barriers for Indigenous workers and communities to access the growing opportunities within the sector. With support from the federal government, Iron and Earth will empower workers with training and upskilling, and foster connections with employers looking to meet demand,” said Canada’s Minister for Employment, Workforce Development, and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough.
A key component of Iron & Earth’s mandate is to give communities the choice to build and implement their own climate solutions. Funding is available for small scale renewable power generation systems built by the community, for the community. As Canada moves towards the net-zero targets set for 2050, these emission reducing projects will be key to energy diversification and a cleaner environment.
