Designed to address the region’s demand for skilled workers in web development and data analytics, industry group Digital Nova Scotia and Bluedrop ISM have launched Skills for Hire Atlantic for tech enthusiasts looking to re-skill and up-skill.

Up to 300 participants will be accepted into the virtual, flexible, no-cost 20-week training program commencing August 2, this year.

Skills for Hire has been built in collaboration with industry professionals to help participants develop foundational skills and the confidence needed to find meaningful job opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors, organizers said in a statement.

The program follows the successful completion of a three-year pilot of the Skills for Hire program in Nova Scotia. Digital Nova Scotia has now 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,” Wayne Sumarah, CEO of Digital Nova Scotia, said in a statement.

The technical skills-building program will be coupled with career development sessions, live tutorials, and industry connection opportunities.

“Taking the courses from Skills for Hire was the best decision I made in decades, they gave me the tools and the knowledge for the pursuit of a new career in IT,” said Diego Romero, a graduate of Skills for Hire who now works as a cybersecurity analyst.  

“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,” said 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.

The program is funded in part by the federal government’s Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program.

You can apply here.