College adds programs for nuclear workers to meet expected demand

National Observer

9 hours ago

Humber Polytechnic is partnering with the Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) to help train the next generation of nuclear workers.
This comes as the Ford government invests billions in nuclear energy — including large-scale refurbishments and new small modular reactors (SMRs), the first of which is already under construction at Darlington and is expected to be running by 2029.
In an interview with Canada's National Observer, Francis Syms, associate dean at Humber's faculty of applied sciences and technology, said the country faces an urgent talent crunch.
'Canada is going to run out of energy by 2040 if we don't do something about it — and nuclear is one option to help fill that gap,' Syms said.
'We expect to build another 10 to 15 nuclear reactors over the next 20 to 25 years, and that means tens of thousands of new jobs.'
That's why training more nuclear workers is becoming urgent, Syms said. He expects the roles will mostly be in skilled trades and applied sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, welding, and reactor operations — areas where colleges and polytechnics like Humber play a big role.
As Canada grows its nuclear energy sector — with Ontario massively expanding its nuclear capacity — experts say the country will need up to 30,000 new skilled workers over the next two decades. And nearly 30 per cent of today's nuclear workforce are over the age of 50, many are expected to retire soon.
As Canada grows its nuclear energy sector — with Ontario massively expanding its nuclear capacity — experts say the country will need up to 30,000 new skilled workers over the next two decades.
Currently, Canada's nuclear industry employs approximately 89,000 people, an increase of 17 per cent over the past five years. With 89 per cent of jobs classified as high-skill, replacing retiring workers won't be easy, Syms added.
The partnership includes creating nuclear-specific academic credentials, supporting applied research, and fostering experiential learning, in collaboration with First Nations, government and industry.
'This collaboration represents an important step forward for the nuclear industry as a whole,' said George Christidis, president and CEO of CNA, in a statement. 'By working together to help build a highly skilled workforce, we're not only supporting the success of future nuclear projects, but also helping to ensure Canada remains a global leader in nuclear technology development.'
Syms said Humber is also helping build a national network of colleges and polytechnics to support nuclear training across the country.
'Whether you're a welder in Alberta or a student in Ontario, you should be able to access nuclear workforce pathways — ideally without having to leave your community.'
He added nuclear training must include Indigenous knowledge and leadership, especially for projects in those communities.
Humber is also working with international partners, including the Philippines, Romania, Japan, and South Korea. Syms said the goal is to make Canadian-developed training programs adaptable for global use while staying focused on Canada's energy needs.
'This is a nation-building effort,' Syms said. 'It's not just about jobs. It's about keeping the lights on, reducing emissions, and building economic and energy sovereignty.'
Demand is rising, so is enrolment
Canada has abundant uranium and a long history of generating electricity with nuclear power since the early 1960s. Seventeen reactors in three provinces currently produce about 15 per cent of the country's electricity, with most located in Ontario.
The province has long depended on nuclear power, which supplies more than 50 per cent of the province's electricity.
The Ford government says new investments in nuclear power will create tens of thousands of jobs in the sector and help meet growing electricity demand, which is expected to rise 75 per cent by 2050.
But critics warn the plan misses key opportunities to scale up renewables, puts energy affordability at risk, and increases Ontario's dependence on foreign energy supplies.
The federal government is investing hundreds of millions in SMRs and sees nuclear power as a key part of a diverse, sustainable energy mix. It says, when properly managed, nuclear power can meet current and future energy needs while supporting climate goals.
As nuclear investments ramp up, so does interest from students. Syms said Humber has seen increasing enrolment in nuclear-related programs, and graduates are already landing jobs at companies like Bruce Power and Ontario Power Generation. The industry is also hiring for roles in data, AI and cyber defence — not just trade, he added.
Syms said with Ontario and the federal government pouring billions into nuclear energy, the real challenge isn't building the reactors — it's making sure Canada has enough trained people to run them.
'As we look to meet our country's growing energy needs, the demand for skilled professionals in the nuclear sector has never been greater,' said Ann Marie Vaughan, Humber president and CEO. 'Together, we are preparing a new wave of nuclear talent who will lead with technical excellence and expertise while championing innovation for a sustainable future.'