As demand for skilled clean-energy professionals grows, Niagara College and the Province of Ontario are investing in the training tools needed to prepare tomorrow’s workforce.
New, leading-edge instructional equipment has arrived at the Welland Campus, enhancing learning for students in the two-year Renewable Energies Technician program.
The equipment was made possible through a provincial investment from the College Equipment and Renewal Fund (CERF) of $300,000 matched by the college’s contribution of $312,084, for a total project cost of $612,084 in 2024-45.
“Niagara College thanks the provincial government for its remarkable support,” said President Sean Kennedy. “This investment helps future-proof our technology programs and enhance student learning. It will ensure we continue to prepare the next generation of skilled technicians, especially in clean and sustainable energy, where our grads are in high demand and key to Canada’s sustainable future.”
As demand for clean energy soars, the program trains highly skilled graduates to install, operate, repair, and maintain renewable energy systems for in-demand careers in technology. Students in the program learn to assess energy consumption and optimize efficiency for both residential and commercial settings.
“As our government continues to protect Ontario and build on our clean energy advantage, the province is making strategic investments to train skilled workers in the renewable energy sector,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West. “This investment through the College Equipment and Renewal Fund for Niagara College will help secure an affordable energy future for our region and across the province.”
“Canada’s renewable energy industry is growing fast and urgently needs skilled workers,” said program coordinator Bryan Mewhiney. “Many of our students have jobs lined up before they even graduate, but the challenge is awareness. Too few people know this field exists, nor that the sector offers lifelong, meaningful careers.”
The funding has enabled advanced learning in solar, HVAC, and geothermal energy through a new solar training facility, four heat pump trainers, and two geothermal learning systems.
“Designing and managing renewable energy systems takes specialized training and a strong foundation in engineering – that’s exactly what we provide at Niagara College,” said Mewhiney.
The solar training facility simulates a real house roof where students gain hands-on experience installing solar panels, but on ground-level for safety. Students from the college’s own School of Trades, led by instructor Craig Brown, constructed the half-truss roof.
New heat pump trainers and geothermal learning systems are preparing students to service this emerging and highly efficient technology that uses heat from the ground to do the work of an air conditioner, furnace or boiler all-in-one to both heat and cool. Unlike solar and wind energy, geothermal is available year-round, 24/7.
Graduates from the Renewable Energies Technician program go on to careers managing renewable energy projects, designing and implementing sustainable systems, installing and maintaining solar PV, solar thermal, wind turbines, and geothermal HVAC systems, retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency, and working in technical sales to promote clean energy technologies.
Renewable Energies Technician alum Ayodele Aderinkoye (2024) came to NC from Nigeria with a background in electrical and electronics engineering and a passion for sustainable energy. Now working as a Wind Turbine Technician with Enercon Service Canada, he says the program set him up for success.
“The hands-on learning, excellent training facilities, and the continuous support from my professors gave me the skills and confidence I needed to succeed in the renewable energy field,” said Aderinkoye.
Aderinkoye returned to NC to speak with students this fall and said the new training facility will give future students a strong start.
“It will give students access to state-of-the-art technology, combined with the outstanding teaching from our professors. “It will prepare them to excel in the renewable energies world.”
Apply for Fall Term 2026
Applications are being accepted for the Fall 2026 intake of the Renewable Energies Technician program. Domestic and international students are welcome to apply, and international students who enroll will be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Ministry of College and Universities College Equipment and Renewal Fund
The funds support colleges to acquire and renew instructional equipment and learning resources to deliver relevant, high-quality education and training that meet evolving employer needs and support Ontario’s economy.
A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.
-30–
Media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant
Niagara College
905-932-1520
[email protected]