The following information was released by Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) 

As industries recover and market demands evolve, businesses and workers in Prince Edward Island are seeking new ways to develop the necessary skills to remain competitive. Collaboration between industry, community, government, and educational institutions serves to strengthen strategic sectors and ensure under-represented groups have more opportunities to contribute. Growing a skilled workforce is critical to building a strong, resilient future for all Atlantic Canadians. 

Today, Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, announced an investment of $855,414 to support the PEI Workforce Innovation Partnership (PEWIP). This funding will help address skills gaps and inequities in the labour force and support post-COVID economic recovery in PEI. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA. 

Workers will now be able to update their skills by earning micro-credentials through Holland College. These programs offer more flexible hours, can be completed more quickly than traditional degrees, and are highly focused teaching the skills workers need to be successful. While not intended to replace a traditional degree, they can be a valuable addition to a traditional certificate, diploma, degree, or post-graduate certificate. 

The Government of Canada is making investments that help businesses, organizations, and post-secondary institutions work together to find innovative solutions to current challenges. Today’s announcement demonstrates a commitment to the Atlantic Canadian workforce, ensuring they have the skills they need to thrive, grow, and compete. 

Quotes 

“Greater collaboration and innovative approaches to the labour market and skills development is essential to building a more inclusive and resilient economy in Atlantic Canada. The Government of Canada is proud to support this initiative, built on a shared vision that recognizes the evolving needs of both businesses and workers.” - The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Holland College is a proven leader in innovative education and I’m pleased to see them spearhead this important initiative to propel PEI’s economy forward. The collaborative model will ensure that the outcomes benefit the communities and sectors most in need of support.” - Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown 

“We’re proud to partner with Federal Government and Holland College as we work collaboratively with industries and communities to respond to our Island’s workforce needs,” said Minister of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture Matthew MacKay. “By working together, we can offer responsive and innovative training opportunities to fill key skills gaps that will help grow our workforce and strengthen our economy into the future.” - Matthew MacKay, Minister of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture for the Government of Prince Edward Island

“Labour force demand, migration, and technological advances are presenting opportunities that require stronger and more purposeful collective leadership and action. Holland College has always consulted with industry to develop programs that are relevant and timely. Through the PEI Workforce Innovation Partnership, Holland College will look to mobilize a more coordinated effort to develop, implement, and promote workforce development initiatives across the province that support industry recruitment and retention and foster diversity and inclusion.” - Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald, President, Holland College

In this picture: (L-R) Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown; Matthew MacKay, Minister of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture for the Government of Prince Edward Island; and Holland College President, Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald.

Contacts 

Marianne Blondin, Press Secretary 
Office of the Minister of Official Languages and of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 
Marianne.Blondin@acoa-apeca.gc.ca  

Mike Critchley, Senior Communications Advisor 
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 
Michael.Critchley@acoa-apeca.gc.ca  

Hillary MacDonald 
Department of Economic Growth, Tourism and Culture 
Senior Communications Officer 
hpsmacdonald@gov.pe.ca  
Tel: 902-394-6368 

Greg Arsenault, Director of Marketing & Communications 
Holland College
gjarsenault@hollandcollege.com
Tel: 902-566-9615