Empowering Futures — Student Work Placement Program

Finding skilled talent while helping students gain real-world experience can be a challenge for employers across Canada’s electricity sector. The Empowering Futures — Student Work Placement Program is designed to bridge that gap by helping energy and utilities businesses bring post-secondary students into meaningful, paid work-integrated learning roles. Delivered by Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC), the program supports employers nationwide who are building the next generation of electricity professionals, whether through on-site or remote placements.

Through this initiative, employers can receive a non-repayable wage subsidy of up to about $5,000 per student, helping offset the cost of hiring and training emerging talent. Even higher support, up to roughly $7,000 per placement, is available when businesses create opportunities for students from underrepresented groups, including women pursuing STEM careers, Indigenous students, newcomers, persons with disabilities, and those early in their post-secondary studies. This added support makes it easier for companies to expand their workforce while contributing to a more inclusive and diverse electricity industry.

The program is particularly relevant for Canadian-owned organizations involved in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as related areas such as renewables, energy efficiency, research and development, equipment manufacturing, and sector services. For employers interested in developing future-ready talent while reducing hiring costs, learning more about how this program works can help determine if it’s the right fit for your workforce plans.