Hydro Ottawa a “top employer” for apprenticeship

May 30, 2023 – The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum recognized Hydro Ottawa with its Top Apprenticeship Employer Award (2023). Congratulations!

“This year’s winner understands that it is good business to support apprentice career progression, developing both talented tradespeople and a pipeline of future workers,” said France Daviault, CEO, CAF. “At Hydro Ottawa, currently 19% of their trades workforce is made up by apprentices. That is worth celebrating.”

Hydro Ottawa was recognized for initiatives that include:

• A partnership with Algonquin College to develop and deliver the college’s two-year Powerline Technician Diploma Program.

• With Algonquin College, recognition as a Training Delivery Agent for the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development for the certification of Powerline Technician Apprenticeship Training in Ontario.

• A partnership with Simwave (now part of Calian), to develop virtual-reality training modules.

• Creation of the Hydro Ottawa Award: a $2500 entrance award given to a first-year female student in the Algonquin College/Hydro Ottawa Powerline Technician Diploma Program.

“With a large portion of our workforce having retired—and many eligible to retire in the next 10 years—we know that these young employees are the future of our organization,” said Bryce Conrad, CEO, Hydro Ottawa. “We look forward to continuing partnerships that will help develop our trades and ensure a more diversified workforce.”

As a Top Employer, Hydro Ottawa becomes a Champion member of the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum.

CAF-FCA is a Canadian non-profit organization that collaborates with industry stakeholders to develop “a highly skilled and inclusive workforce through innovative apprenticeship systems and policies”.