Julia Blackburn
CEO, NPower Canada
Artificial intelligence is transforming Canadian business and society more generally.
The opportunities will only continue to accelerate, but a lack of AI literacy and training among the Canadian workforce is a huge barrier and holding us back from widespread adoption. NPower Canada, a national charitable organization is a solution to filling the talent gap, by providing free technical and professional skills training to help jobseekers, particularly those from underserved communities.
It’s not that Canada isn’t investing in AI, because we are a global leader in this space, but much of the AI investment in Canada, from both government and the private sector, has been focused on technology. What’s missing is some balance to ensure we’re also investing in training and upskilling, so Canadians can use these tools. A recent KPMG global study revealed that Canadians have among the lowest levels of training and literacy in AI systems in the world, ranking 44 out of 47 countries that were part of the study. Many companies also report an absence of technical talent to scale up and produce market-ready AI products and services.
Pairing talent with industry needs
NPower Canada’s dual-client model is the secret sauce. Employers are a key client, providing insight into the skills they need in their workforce. Their input ensures training remains industry-informed and aligned to current and future demands.
With this guidance, those who are unemployed or underemployed are offered free workforce-aligned digital skills training, including AI-related certifications and tech fundamentals. Industry mentors and coaches enhance knowledge building, while professional development and job placement services ensures a talented workforce is ready to use AI and supporting tech to solve some of our most pressing challenges.
This model ensures training aligns with Canada’s evolving AI landscape and future-of-work demands, while strong employer partnerships connect graduates directly to open roles.
AI will only reach its full potential if people have the knowledge and confidence to use it. Technology can move fast, but adoption will stall if we don’t invest in human capability. That’s where NPower Canada plays a critical role, bridging the gap between industry demand and a workforce that’s ready to contribute day one.
Pathway to economic prosperity
NPower Canada creates pathways to economic prosperity for Canada’s underserved youth and adults by launching them into meaningful and sustainable digital careers. Unlike many virtual technology programs, NPower Canada provides instructor-led classes, job-placement assistance, and alumni services and supports. Many of the participants are from communities that historically are underrepresented in the tech sector, including Indigenous or racialized, new Canadians, and women.
Employer partnerships are critical to the program’s success. NPower Canada works closely with industry to learn about their talent strategy and hiring needs and then customizes training to align with junior tech talent requirements. In addition, candidates are pre-screened and referred so that skills best meet the needs of business. NPower Canada also collaborates with industry partners to ensure long-term success.
And its success rate is good with 80 percent of participants graduating and 82 percent of those graduates obtaining tech-related employment or enrolling in post-secondary education within a year.
“Our mission has always been about economic mobility. When you provide someone the skills, support, and opportunity to enter tech, you’re not just changing their job. You’re changing the trajectory of their life, their family, and their community. AI will reshape the future of work, and we’re making sure that future includes everyone.”
Discover the opportunity for your future with NPower Canada at npowercanada.ca.
