Discovering Potential program helps young Canadians build skills, gain experience and launch careers
April 13, 2026 | Ottawa, ON — Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) is proud to announce a $3.08 million investment from the Government of Canada to help youth access meaningful employment opportunities in Canada’s electricity sector. The funding will support paid, skills-building work or training experiences that strengthen career pathways and connect them to long-term employment in a growing industry.
EHRC’s Discovering Potential program will see a two-year investment to create 110 paid placements, helping employers hire, mentor and train young people in STEM and natural resource-related roles, while addressing critical workforce needs in one of Canada’s most essential sectors.
The funding was announced by the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families, as part of the Government of Canada’s Science and Technology Internship Program (STIP) – Green Jobs. EHRC is one of 10 program‑delivery organizations selected to support youth employment and skills-training opportunities through this program.
“Supporting young people as they enter the workforce is critical to the future of the Canadian electricity sector,” said Michelle Branigan, CEO, EHRC. “This investment helps employers bring new talent into the industry while giving youth the experience and skills they need to build lasting careers in the future low-carbon economy.”
Discovering Potential lowers barriers to hiring talent by offsetting the costs of hiring and training, providing additional resources and supports for employers, while giving youth aged 15 to 30 valuable hands-on experience and a clear pathway into long-term electricity careers. Over the past five years, 254 youth have accessed employment or training opportunities in Canada’s electricity industry through the program.
The program places a strong emphasis on increasing participation from equity-deserving groups, including women, Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized Canadians, youth from northern and remote regions, and persons with disabilities, ensuring more Canadians can participate in and benefit from careers in the industry.
This investment builds on EHRC’s broader portfolio of workforce development initiatives that support Canada’s electricity sector through research, national programs and employer‑driven solutions.
As Canada expands its energy generation and modernizes electricity infrastructure, demand for skilled workers continues to grow. By connecting young people to practical work experience and helping employers as they hire and train new talent, Discovering Potential contributes to a strong, inclusive and future‑ready electricity workforce.
Employers can learn more and apply at ehrc.ca/discovering-potential.
EHRC will host a virtual Funding Forum on April 22, 2026, to help employers learn more about Discovering Potential and other available funding programs.
About EHRC
Electricity Human Resources Canada is the national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the Canadian electricity sector has a safety-focused, highly skilled and inclusive workforce. EHRC works with employers, labour, educators and governments to develop solutions to workforce challenges and promote career opportunities in electricity and renewable energy. To learn more, visit ehrc.ca.
Contact
Ryan Baan (he/him)
Marketing and Communications Manager
EHRC
[email protected]
613-235-5540, ext. 255