International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) First District (Canada) International Vice President Russ Shewchuk issued the following statement in response to the Government of Canada’s Nuclear Energy Strategy.
“IBEW Canada welcomes the Government of Canada’s Nuclear Energy Strategy and its commitment to expanding a reliable, made-in-Canada source of electricity that will advance economic growth, energy security, and emissions-reduction objectives across the country.
“The strategy sets an ambitious course for the future of Canada’s nuclear sector. Achieving these goals will require a significant expansion of Canada’s skilled nuclear workforce to build, operate, and maintain the next generation of nuclear facilities. Through world-class apprenticeship programs, advanced training centres, and extensive industry partnerships, IBEW Local Unions are prepared to recruit, train, and deploy the next generation of highly skilled electrical workers to meet this challenge.
“We are encouraged by the strategy’s focus on workforce development, coordinated training, academic partnerships, and experiential learning opportunities. These investments will help create long-term careers for skilled workers while ensuring the benefits of major energy projects remain in Canadian communities.
“IBEW Canada also supports the strategy’s commitment to Indigenous participation. Strong partnerships with Indigenous communities and meaningful pathways into skilled trades careers will be essential as new projects move forward.
“As Canada advances its clean energy future, we look forward to working alongside governments, utilities, industry partners, educational institutions, and Indigenous nations to help deliver the skilled workforce needed to build Canada’s energy future.”
 | RUSS SHEWCHUK International Vice President IBEW First District, Canada |
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The IBEW First District (Canada) represents over 70,000 active members in Canada who work in a wide variety of fields, including construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads and government.