Ontario Tech University Partners With Industry to Develop Rail Specialization Program
Ontario Tech University is working with Alstom and AtkinsRéalis on the development of a rail specialization program to address the growing need for skilled workers in Canada’s rail sector, according to a recent announcement from the university. University officials state these efforts are in response to increased rail industry activity and demand for engineers and other professionals.
The expansion of rail projects across Canada has led to a heightened need for specialized training programs, according to Ontario Tech. University representatives say that partnerships with industry leaders help shape new academic offerings and prepare graduates for roles within the sector.
A panel at the Future Forward: Competencies Forum on September 19 featured representatives from Ontario Tech, Polytechnique Montréal, Alstom, and AtkinsRéalis. The university reports that this panel discussion highlighted labour market needs in areas such as rail transit design, signalling systems, train design, operations, and maintenance. Ontario Tech says this information is being used to inform the development of new academic programs in partnership with industry.
AtkinsRéalis has previously collaborated with Ontario Tech on its Nuclear Engineering program and has expanded its involvement to rail initiatives through the university’s Student Enrichment Program. According to Ontario Tech, Alstom also works with researchers at the university on projects related to energy-efficient rail transportation.
Ontario Tech’s Partnership Office facilitates collaborations between industry and university faculties, including guest lectures, student projects, and research partnerships. The university states that collaborations with companies such as Alstom and AtkinsRéalis provide students with opportunities for applied learning and engagement with current industry practices.
“The university’s relationships with partners create opportunities for both students and the industries we serve,” Lindsay Coolidge, Executive Director of Cooperative Education, Experiential Learning and Career Development (Interim), said in a university release.
“Railways have been central to Canada’s development and economic prosperity, a role they continue to play today,” Dr. Scott Nokleby, Associate Dean, Academic at Ontario Tech’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, said. Dr. Nokleby added that the railway engineering specialization is in development at the university.
Ontario Tech University states that the development of rail sector programs and collaboration with industry partners will continue.