Wage funding programs make building a strong workforce of young environmental professionals easier than ever.
Canada is a global leader in environmental innovation — and post-pandemic, our economic recovery can be green. Building an environmental workforce is a key part of that, and employers can now proceed with environmental projects with fewer staffing costs.
Employing youth helps overcome barriers to employment post-graduation. Armed with cutting-edge knowledge and the ability to adapt, youth are valuable assets. Today’s youth are the most highly educated generation the world has ever seen, and hiring them builds capacity within your business.
The added incentive of wage funding
Wage funding provides incentives to hire people into entry-level or junior careers. The Environmental Careers Organization Canada (ECO Canada) provides programs for employers hiring for roles with an environmental focus. Its Digital Skills for Youth (DS4Y) program is designed for small- to medium-sized companies and is funded by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. DS4Y covers 100 percent of a candidate’s salary up to a maximum of $25,000 for environmental jobs that require digital abilities. Youth must be 30 or under and must possess digital skills. The program’s a win-win for employers, candidates, and job seekers.
ECO Canada focuses on diversity and inclusion, and encourages employment in underrepresented groups like women in STEM and Indigenous youth. Its programs also include Youth in Natural Resources and Science Horizons Internship.
“By encouraging employers to hire youth, we’re helping build a diverse, qualified labour pool and create a green economy that benefits all Canadians,” says the Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources.
