We are very excited to announce that Manitoba Environmental Industries Association (MEIA) has been successful in obtaining funding to build capacity for energy advisor training in Manitoba. MEIA has created a Made-in-Manitoba Energy Advisor Training program with in-person and online training options to prepare candidates, including from under-represented groups, to successfully obtain their energy advisor registration. The $903,000 funding will be used over three years to help build the Energy Advisor Micro-Credential program offered by RRC Polytech, a program that is the first of its kind for a post-secondary institution.
The Energy Advisor Micro-Credential Program prepares students to become a Registered Energy Advisor with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and supports efforts to increase energy efficiency within Manitoba’s built environment. More details of the program delivery and supports for students will be announced in the coming weeks.
“This three-year funding from NRCan is a big deal for our organization and for Manitoba. And it is a big deal for those who seek a professional career in the environmental sector performing energy audits. This career is in high demand as more and more homeowners and businesses look to improve their building efficiency. Not only is the Energy Advisor training program a success story for MEIA’s workforce development mandate under the provincial Sector Council Program, but it is also a culmination of a lot of hard work and support from our partners at RRC Polytech and Efficiency Manitoba. I can’t say enough about the collaboration to make this happen, along with support from the Building Efficiency Technology Access Centre, Sustainable Building Manitoba, Manitoba Construction Sector Council, Manitoba Home Builders Association and prairieHOUSE Performance Inc. With NRCan’s funding support we will also help cover registration costs, and target recruitment from communities that traditionally have been underrepresented in the profession.”
-Jack Winram, Executive Director, MEIA
The Energy Advisor program is one step toward the transition to increased energy efficiency in Manitoba. Canada has committed to recruit, train, and mentor new energy advisors across the country to support the Canada Greener Homes Grant, which will provide incentives to help homeowners make energy-efficient improvements to their homes, supported by an EnerGuide evaluation. This evaluation, performed by an Energy Advisor, gives homeowners a better understanding of how their home uses energy now – and identifies retrofits to help improve energy efficiency. This program will strengthen and expand a knowledgeable, growing and diverse workforce; ensure consistent and professional services to homeowners in Manitoba; and contribute to reliable outcomes for programs such as the Greener Homes initiative.
Click here to learn more about the Energy Advisor program or to register for this high-demand career with support from MEIA.
Click here to read the NRCan announcement.