Irving Shipbuilding Inc. (ISI) and Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) have joined forces to strengthen Canada’s marine workforce through a new trades training initiative. Announced April 2, 2025, the Irving Shipbuilding Marine Trades Initiative represents a $3.306 million investment in training the next generation of marine professionals.

“We are pleased to announce the Irving Shipbuilding Marine Trades Initiative. This program will create opportunities for more Canadians to build rewarding careers in the trades, while strengthening our world-class marine sector. Investing in skilled talent is essential to the long-term growth and viability of Canada’s marine industry,” expressed Lee Fromson, Vice President Supply Chain and Quality, Irving Shipbuilding.

Beginning in September 2025, the initiative will open the doors to 80 fully funded spots in NSCC’s trades programs, specifically targeting essential disciplines like welding, metal fabrication, and pipe trades. With the marine sector rapidly evolving, these skills are more critical than ever to meet the demands of both shipbuilding and long-term industry growth.

“The National Shipbuilding Strategy is building more than ships. Through this initiative, the Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence, and other Value Proposition initiatives, we are developing a stronger marine industry across Canada,” stated  Aaron Plamondon, Director of Industrial Participation, Irving Shipbuilding.

The program is structured as a two-year diploma, with Irving Shipbuilding covering all training expenses for the selected students. Applications will be managed by ISI, and successful candidates will enroll as full-time students at NSCC. The goal is to eliminate financial and systemic barriers while attracting new talent to Canada’s marine trades landscape.

“We’re so proud to continue to work with Irving Shipbuilding to strengthen the skilled trades workforce and marine sector as a whole. This is an important investment in both the future of the industry and in the lives of those who choose to study and work in the field,” said Don Bureaux, President, Nova Scotia Community College.

This significant educational investment also aligns with ISI’s obligations under the National Shipbuilding Strategy Value Proposition, which requires the company to reinvest 0.5% of contract values into research and initiatives that help strengthen and sustain Canada’s marine sector.

By forging this partnership, Irving Shipbuilding and NSCC are not only supporting the immediate needs of the industry but also laying the foundation for a skilled, resilient, and sustainable marine workforce for decades to come.