July 22, Ottawa, ON – Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) is pleased to announce the return of its popular initiative Bright Futures Energy Camp, a summer science camp for Indigenous youth. Bright Futures inspires interest and promotes careers in the electricity sector by engaging participants in hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning activities. The program is a foundational component of EHRC’s efforts to reduce barriers to Indigenous participation in Canada’s electricity sector workforce.
This year the camp will run for children aged 10-13 in Fort McKay First Nation, Alberta from August 16 to 20. All participants will receive a science kit they can use to follow along with the activities virtually and in a safe group setting with facilitators. The week-long day camp will be delivered by Elephant Thoughts, a national charity dedicated to promoting the availability of quality education for children throughout the world. The campers will learn everything from how electricity and renewable energy is created to where it goes and what it’s used for, be it heating their home or allowing them to watch their favourite TV show. Fun and interactive activities with an ever-present educational message will allow the youth to learn about the industry and how they can be a part of it someday. They’ll build Lego solar cars, light up light bulbs using a bicycle generator, create toys that work using circuit boards, and much more.
“Bright Futures is designed to bring attention to the wide range of opportunities for Indigenous youth in the electricity sector, and the importance of math and science,” said Michelle Branigan, CEO, EHRC. “Through hands-on building, experimenting and learning as well as culturally appropriate activities the camp will demonstrate the connections between industry and community and inspire youth to consider their own futures in the sector.”
“The young people at this camp will help build Canada’s clean energy future,” said the Honourable Seamus O’Regan Jr., Minister of Natural Resources. “Their enthusiasm and vision are what we need to get to net-zero emissions by 2050.”
To date, EHRC has delivered eight camps across the country and reached over 150 youth. The camp’s success has been dependent upon the generous contributions of sponsors and partners. EHRC’s collaboration with Elephant Thoughts would not have been possible without the support from our champion sponsor Natural Resources Canada, as well as industry partners.
About Electricity Human Resources Canada
Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) is Canada’s most trusted source of objective human resources information and tools to help the Canadian electricity industry match workforce supply and demand. EHRC is a not-for-profit organization helping to keep the lights on in Canada by enabling a world-class workforce for the entire electricity industry.
Contact
Jenna Moore
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Electricity Human Resources Canada
613.235.5540 ext. 228
[email protected]
Natural Resources Canada
Media Relations
343-292-6100
[email protected]