Twenty post-secondary students across Nova Scotia are gaining invaluable work experience this summer in the energy sector through the Energy Training Program for Students. Several of the students are working in ocean-related industries.

“The energy training program has allowed me to gain hands-on skills in a successful and vibrant work atmosphere, such as JASCO Applied Sciences,” said Carmen Lawrence, an ocean technology student at Nova Scotia Community College. “I have been able to interact with people working in the ocean technology field with a multidisciplinary approach.

“I am very excited to have this opportunity, as it enables me to be mentored by industry professionals in all aspects of design, construction, deployment and processing of oceanographic data.”

The program, in its 14th year of operation, has provided hands-on experience to more than 400 young people in Nova Scotia. This year, 18 employers are taking part including JASCO Applied Sciences Canada, GeoSpectrum Technologies Inc., and the Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy in the ocean technology sector.

“The energy training program makes it possible for small-sized companies to bring in new graduates with fresh ideas and youthful perspectives, who already have an understanding of the energy sector,” said JoAnn Nippard, human resource manager for JASCO Applied Sciences Canada.

The program provides eligible employers with a 50 per cent subsidy, up to $7.50 per hour, toward a student’s salary during a 12 to 17 week employment with the organization. Work terms are from May to August.

“Nova Scotia’s offshore and tidal industries offer excellent opportunities for economic and employment growth in Nova Scotia,” said Energy Minister Michel Samson. “It’s terrific to see young Nova Scotians have a real chance to start building careers here in innovative energy-related fields.”

For more information on the Energy Training Program for Students visit http://energy.novascotia.ca/industry-development/energy-training-program .

Source: Release