If you've got ambitions to work at Windsor's NextStar Energy plant, you might consider a new training program.
It's called 'Battery Boost: Technical Training for Battery Manufacturing Careers,' and Invest WindsorEssex is offering it to laid-off workers and those wishing to change careers.
"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."
More than 400 people can take the course. Those who are interested in joining them are encouraged to visit webatteryboost.com.
Those who finish the training will be qualified to move into specific roles at the battery plant. Those who don't will still be offered additional training and job placement assistance within the local EV supply chain.
It's part of the first wave of partnerships taking an industry-oriented approach to training workers to work either at the plant or within the EV battery supply chain.
"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 a shot at working in Canada's first-ever battery plant," said Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk. "This is a game-changer for workers and families looking to build their future here in Windsor-Essex."
Using virtual reality and other training simulators, participants will get hands-on, practical experience, ensuring they're ready for a job in the industry. NextStar Energy consulted on the curriculum.
The program will run from February 2025 to March 2026 at the Invest WindsorEssex Automobility and Innovation Centre.