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Invest WindsorEssex has received $3.8 million in federal funding from Upskills Canada to launch the Battery Boost: Technical Training for Battery Manufacturing Careers program.
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The regional program will partner with Palette Skills, NextStar Energy and Virtualware to deliver technical training to equip workers with the skills to be employed in the battery manufacturing sector.
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“The Battery Boost program exemplifies the transformative potential of collaboration and innovation in workforce development,” said Invest WindsorEssex interim CEO Joe Goncalves.
“By combining cutting-edge VR training technology with tailored industry expertise, we are equipping Windsor-Essex workers with the skills they need to thrive in the growing battery manufacturing sector. This initiative not only empowers individuals with meaningful career opportunities but also strengthens our region’s position as a leader in the electrification revolution.”
The program will run from February 2025 to March 2026 and will provide training to over 400 participants.
It will target laid-off workers or those seeking a career shift in hopes of transitioning into the battery industry.
“In the Next Star Energy battery plant we delivered the single most important investment in the history of our community, and now our focus turns to delivering a historic training investment that will help make sure local workers of all ages and all backgrounds get their shot at working in Canada’s first ever battery plant,” Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk said. “This is a gamechanger for workers and families looking to build their future here in Windsor-Essex.”
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Training will be done at the Invest WindsorEssex Automobility and Innovation Centre using virtual reality and advanced training simulators. The specialized curriculum has been created in collaboration with NextStar Energy who will leverage proprietary information essential to the battery manufacturing process.
“NextStar Energy is powered by local talent,” said NextStar Energy’s director of human resources Ed Novacco.
“As we continue to grow, we’re excited to collaborate with Invest WindsorEssex to launch initiatives like the Battery Boost program, which will help prepare our workforce for new opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of EV battery manufacturing.”
Participants who complete the program will be eligible to move into specific roles at NextStar Energy.
Those who are selected for the program but do not successfully complete the training will still be provided with additional upskilling opportunities and job placement assistance within the Windsor-Essex EV supply chain.
To learn more about the Battery Boost program or to submit an application visit the website webatteryboost.com for detailed information and resources.
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