Are you a manufacturer committed to inclusive hiring, an employee with learning differences in the sector, or a partner supporting workforce diversity? We want to hear from you.
EMC&#8217;s Supporting Learning Differences initiative is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities.
&nbsp;

Supporting Learning Styles in Canadian manufacturing

Every individual learns differently based on factors such as age, language, essential skill levels, learning disabilities, neurodivergence, etc. Sometimes, what works for one person doesn’t work for someone else.
EMC&#8217;s Supporting Learning Differences Project is a national initiative dedicated to helping manufacturing employers and employees enhance training and workplace performance.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-15308" src="https://blackbean.wpenginepowered.com/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/GoC-Learning-Differences-300x84.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="84" srcset="https://partners.blackbean.marketing/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/GoC-Learning-Differences-300x84.jpg 300w, https://partners.blackbean.marketing/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/GoC-Learning-Differences-768x214.jpg 768w, https://partners.blackbean.marketing/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/GoC-Learning-Differences.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />

Improve Training Performance and Workplace Outcomes  

Randy Kolowrocki, Project Coordinator

WANT TO LEARN MORE OR GET INVOLVED? GET IN TOUCH!

EMC’s Supporting Learning Differences initiative aims to enhance the capacity of the manufacturing sector to support employees with learning differences. This national initiative will provide employers with access to customized supports, resources, and growth opportunities to support employees facing learning differences.
Project objectives are to:
<ul>
<li>Conduct research to understand the scope of learning differences in the sector and unique challenges faced by employers and employees in the workplace.</li>
<li>Provide manufacturing employees with tools and supports to excel in foundational skills development through new and innovative approaches to identify and address learning differences</li>
<li>Provide employers with access to a toolkit of industry-validated resources designed to allow manufacturers to create equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplaces.</li>
<li>Create awareness within the sector, share best practices, and strategies for accommodation to provide employers with the tools to build supportive and inclusive workplaces.</li>
</ul>
The training programs listed below are just a few of the options available that are eligible for the Learning Differences initiative. Please reach out if you have further questions on training and program eligibility.

Supporting Learning Differences

How Your Business Can Benefit from EMC’s Supporting Learning Differences Initiative
Manufacturing employees participate in countless hours of training such as onboarding, upskilling, reskilling, on-the job-training, apprenticeships, etc. Now more than ever, it’s critical that an employer’s investment in training is effective.
The Supporting Learning Differences initiative provides manufacturing employers with relevant and practical strategies and resources to:
<ul>
<li>Enhance workforce productivity by supporting employees&#8217; unique learning needs.</li>
<li>Tap into underutilized talent by identifying employees&#8217; learning styles and strengths.</li>
<li>Improve recruitment and retention through inclusive hiring practices and effective training strategies.</li>
<li>Strengthen employer branding by demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion.</li>
<li>Foster innovation, creativity, and adaptability to maintain a competitive edge.</li>
</ul>
How You Can Get Involved:
<ul>
<li>Learning Difference Toolkit: Industry-validated resources to help employers implement effective strategies to improve training performance and outcomes in the workplace.  <a href="https://3e8cs.share.hsforms.com/2JYSPy9jeQpSeW4TRDvzhtg">Click here to download</a>.</li>
<li>Learning Differences Questionnaire: In partnership with VLS Canada, EMC is piloting the LDORI, an online screening tool developed by VLS Canada to identify an individual’s risk for experiencing learning barriers. Up to 100 employees in EMC&#8217;s training sessions can participate and receive valuable tools and resources.</li>
<li>VLS Personalized Support: EMC is also piloting VLS Canada’s personalized support services for 25 eligible participants. Each will receive a customized assessment, tailored tools, and resources to enhance workplace success.</li>
<li>Learning Differences Events: EMC hosts in-person and online events featuring guest speakers, research findings, best practices, and resource sharing. Stay updated on <a href="https://emccanada.org/events">upcoming events</a>.</li>
<li>Learning Differences Research: EMC is conducting research on learning differences and workplace challenges. Help shape future resources by completing the EMC Employer of Choice Survey. Your feedback will drive new strategies to improve training outcomes. <a href="http://surveys.emccanada.org/S2/185/EMCLMI/">Complete the survey</a>.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://partners.blackbean.marketing/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/5_LearningDifferences_Employer.pdf">Frequently Asked Questions</a>

Employers

Do you know your ideal way of learning? EMC’s Supporting Learning Differences in Manufacturing initiative is piloting tools and resources to help manufacturing employees improve their training and workplace performance.
How You Can Get Involved:
Learning Differences Questionnaire: In partnership with VLS Canada, EMC is piloting the LDORI to identify learning styles to support enhanced training outcomes. Up to 100 employees in EMC&#8217;s training sessions can participate and receive valuable resources.
VLS Personalized Support: EMC is piloting VLS Canada’s personalized support services for 25 selected participants. This includes:
<ul>
<li>Easy, online assessment as a first step</li>
<li>Confidential, one-on-one learning coach session to determine your learning style</li>
<li>A personalized learning profile and strategies for success.</li>
<li>Tailored tools and resources to enhance success in training and the workplace.</li>
</ul>
This service, valued at $13,000 per person, is fully funded for eligible participants.
Employee Learning Styles Toolkit coming soon!
<a href="https://partners.blackbean.marketing/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/4_LearningDifferences_Employee.pdf">Frequently Asked Questions</a>

Discover Your Learning Style and Enhance Workplace Success

Employees

Hear directly from people across the manufacturing sector on the value of inclusive learning and training approaches.

Learning Styles in Action

Consultant, Canadian Equality Consulting

Learning Strategist, VLS Canada

CEO, Diverse Solutions Strategy Firm Inc.

Performance Learning and Engagement Lead, Nautel

<h3>Through EMC&#8217;s WILWorks Program, since 2020, EMC has supported the placements of over 5100 students and has delivered over $31,000,000 to the manufacturing sector.</h3>
<h3>Access New Talent</h3>
The WILWorks Post Secondary (SWPP) Program is designed to incentivize employers to offer more student positions than they did before leveraging funding.
<blockquote>This was my first time using the EMC WILWorks program and I was extremely satisfied with the overall experience. Wendy and the other program administrators were very friendly and always willing to help you with any questions you may have. The instructions are very clearly explained on the website and the process was easy to follow. Once I submitted the documents required, the approval was super quick. Great work EMC team! &#8211; Warren Andrade, PINPoint Information Systems Inc.</blockquote>
<h3>It&#8217;s Easy to Apply!</h3>
Visit our third party application platform to apply for funding. It&#8217;s quick and simple &#8211; and our team of professionals is here to support you along the way.
Ready to apply? <a href="https://emctalent.poweredbymagnet.ca/">Click here!</a>
<blockquote>“The EMC WILWorks Post Secondary Program was a simple process to obtain funding for our interns. They were quick to respond to any questions and helped guide us through the process. With their funding program, it helps employers financially and students gain knowledge and experience.” Elizabeth Lee, Human Resources Generalist, Hanon Systems Canada Inc.</blockquote>
<h3>Program Documents:</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://blackbean.wpenginepowered.com/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/EN_WILWorksEmployerFAQ_Summer-2025Update-1.pdf">Employer FAQs</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blackbean.wpenginepowered.com/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/EN_WILWorksStudentFAQ_Summer-2025Update-1.pdf">Student FAQs</a></li>
<li><a href="https://files.benecms.com/emc/files/WILWorks%20Information%20and%20Consent%20Form%20Updated%20July%208%202024.pdf">Student Information &amp; Consent Form</a></li>
<li><a href="https://blackbean.wpenginepowered.com/emc/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/EN_WILWorksTerms_and_Conditions_Summer-2025Update-1.pdf">Terms &amp; Conditions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://files.benecms.com/emc/files/EMC-Employer%20Acceptance%20Form%20-%2018%20May%202023.pdf">Employer Acceptance Form</a></li>
<li><a href="https://files.benecms.com/emc/files/WILWorks%20Employer%20Attestation%20Form%20Updated%20May%2018%202023.pdf">Employer Attestation Form</a></li>
<li><a href="https://files.benecms.com/emc/files/FINAL_combined%20standard_increased%20bilingual%20invoice2.pdf">Invoice Template</a></li>
</ul>
This project is funded by the Government of Canada&#8217;s Student Work Placement Program. 
<img decoding="async" src="https://files.benecms.com/emc/media/canada-logo-emc-updated.jpg" alt="" />
Pour les services de communication en français, veuillez contacter <a href="mailto:cchoquette@emccanada.org">Carol Choquette</a>.

Get up to $7,000 per placement!

Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium, a preferred partner with the Government of Canada, delivers the Student Work Placement Program subsidy to Canadian manufacturers.
WILWorks SWPP – Post Secondary Students – Important Update:
Winter 2026 Placement Term – January 1 to March 31: 
EMC has limited SWPP (Student Work Placement Program &#8211; EMC’s WILWorks Post-Secondary Program) funding for this term. We are currently accepting additional eligible net new applications for the Winter term.
Funding is limited and applications must meet Net New requirements for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. There is a very high volume of interest and we will transition to a waitlist once this limited funding target is met.  
For the purpose of funding, it would cover the % for the period from January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2026.
Please check back frequently for updates in regard to future placement terms, or fill out <a href="https://3e8cs.share.hsforms.com/22nd60uxhT2mY6K9eyBMEJQ">this form</a> to be notified about the next round of applications.

WILWorks - Post Secondary

Senior Project Coordinator

Wendy Gray

Supporting women apprentices in Canadian manufacturing

Are you a woman apprentice, certified journeyperson, ally or employer with experience hiring women in trades? We want to hear from you.
HerJourney is funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy.

HerJourney 

Daron Bougie found her calling in carpentry and construction after joining an Indigenous women&#8217;s program that introduced her to hands-on work. Today, she&#8217;s a carpentry apprentice at Tooketree Passive Homes, helping build energy-efficient homes across Ontario. Her path into the skilled trades reflects persistence, community, and redefining what a career in construction can look like for women.
In this episode, Daron talks about entering the trades without a traditional background, learning on the job, and building confidence in spaces that weren&#8217;t always designed with women in mind. Her story highlights the power of mentorship, representation, and determination in shaping the future of women in trades and sustainable construction.
Whether you&#8217;re a woman apprentice, an employer, or an ally, discover how you can help strengthen the future of women in Canada&#8217;s manufacturing trades at emccanada.org/herjourney

Building a New Life

Laura Potje has been shaping the future of welding and manufacturing education for over 40 years. From her early days welding forestry equipment and uranium refineries to her current role as an instructor at Conestoga College, Laura&#8217;s seen the trades evolve &#8211; and she&#8217;s helped drive that change.
In this episode, she reflects on her journey through the welding industry, the value of mentorship, and the programs she&#8217;s built to bring more women into skilled trades, like Conestoga&#8217;s &#8220;Girls Garage Night&#8221; and &#8220;Women&#8217;s One-Day Welding.&#8221; Her story is one of perseverance, progress, and pride in teaching the next generation of tradespeople to see welding as both art and opportunity.
Whether you&#8217;re a woman apprentice, an employer, or an ally, discover how you can help strengthen the future of women in Canada&#8217;s manufacturing trades at emccanada.org/herjourney

From Sparks to Strategy

Sally Morse is the founder and CEO of Spectra Supply Inc., a Calgary-based manufacturer creating safety equipment and PPE designed specifically for women in trades and manufacturing. With a background in psychology and business, she&#8217;s challenging the &#8220;one-size-fits-all&#8221; approach to workplace safety.
In this episode, Sally shares how inclusive design can save lives, the business case for equity, and the leadership lessons behind building a company that empowers women in skilled trades. From partnerships with programs like Women Building Futures and Build a Dream, to designing gloves that actually fit, she&#8217;s proving that safety and inclusion go hand in hand
Whether you&#8217;re a woman apprentice, an employer, or an ally, discover how you can help strengthen the future of women in Canada&#8217;s manufacturing trades at
emccanada.org/herjourney

Built for Her

Natasha Henderson’s path through manufacturing and operations leadership is built on teamwork, resilience, and breaking through fear. From playing Division 1 softball to managing production teams in the aerospace and aquaculture sectors, she’s learned that confidence and connection go hand in hand. Now an operations leader at Industrial Plankton in Victoria, BC, Natasha supports sustainable aquaculture while leading teams that feed over a billion marine organisms each year.
In this episode, she reflects on what it takes to lead in male-dominated industries, the importance of psychological safety, and how mentorship helps more women in manufacturing step into leadership. Her story is a masterclass in courage, adaptability, and leading with heart in fast-paced technical environments.

Breaking Barriers

Courtney Rupp’s career in manufacturing and quality assurance spans welding, fabrication, and leadership. Now the Quality Assurance Lead at Tooketree in Baysville, Ontario, she helped implement CSA certification and wrote the company’s quality manual. Her story reflects a life built on adaptability, skill, and persistence.
In this episode, Courtney shares how she transitioned from pharmacy technician to certified welder, built the world’s largest pile driver, and found her stride in quality systems and manufacturing leadership. She also opens up about balancing multiple jobs, running her own welding business, and mentoring other women in trades who are just starting out.

Precision, Persistence, and Possibility

Carrie O&#8217;Donnell’s story is proof that it’s never too late to start over. After decades in automotive manufacturing, she entered the skilled trades at 45 and became a Red Seal plumber by 49. Today, she works at the Stellantis Windsor Assembly Plant, one of the few women among 500 tradespeople keeping Canada’s auto industry running.
In this episode, Carrie reflects on changing the perception of manufacturing and plumbing careers, building confidence in male-dominated spaces, and mentoring women entering the trades. Her story is grounded in courage, perseverance, and a belief that visibility is the first step toward inclusion.

Shifting the Blueprint

Anna Rosina is part of a new generation redefining what it means to work in skilled trades and manufacturing. As a machinist in training at Conestoga College and FBT Machine Shop in St. Catharines, she’s already mastering the precision work of 5-axis CNC machining — cutting components to tolerances finer than a human hair. Her journey began with high school robotics, where early exposure to hands-on problem-solving sparked a lifelong love for engineering and technical design.
In this episode, Anna opens up about finding confidence as one of only a few women in her program, the power of mentorship, and her goal to one day teach the next generation of women in trades. From the classroom to the shop floor, her story highlights the growing presence of women in machining, the importance of precision and patience, and how early education and outreach can shape the future of Canada’s manufacturing industry.

Empowering Woman in STEM

Jackie Toner’s leap from academia to woodturning and entrepreneurship began as a creative escape and became a full-time career. As the founder of Woods Woman Woodworking, she designs and crafts handmade kitchenware and art pieces while mentoring young women entering the trades.
In this episode, Jackie talks about turning uncertainty into opportunity, building a business from scratch, and leading a shop that values creativity and inclusion as much as craftsmanship. Her story highlights the rise of women in small-scale manufacturing, mental wellness in trades, and how passion can evolve into purpose.

Crafting a New Path

Presented by Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC) &#8211; Canada&#8217;s largest manufacturing network &#8211; and produced by Memory Tree Productions, the HerJourney Podcast goes beyond the shop floor to explore what it takes to thrive in industries where women have long been underrepresented. Through open, insightful conversations with tradeswomen, mentors, and industry leaders, the series uncovers how confidence, mentorship, and inclusion are shaping a stronger, more sustainable future for Canadian manufacturing.
Whether you&#8217;re already in the trades, considering a career in manufacturing, or simply inspired by stories of resilience and reinvention, HerJourney offers a fresh, empowering perspective on what it means to build a future with your own hands.

HerJourney Podcast

Sherene Mitchell 
Project Manager

Looking for more information? We can help!

HerJourney is committed to increasing the success, support, and retention of women apprentices in Red Seal trades within Canada’s vibrant manufacturing sector.
Specific objectives are to:
<ul>
<li>Conduct research to understand the scope and unique challenges faced by women apprentices in manufacturing;</li>
<li>Provide women apprentices with activities, support, resources, and training, including mentorship and leadership development services, to strengthen their desire to remain within the manufacturing industry;</li>
<li>Increase visibility, understanding, acceptance of the unique challenges faced by women apprentices in manufacturing; and</li>
<li>Provide employers with the resources and supports they need to take action to mitigate the identified challenges that women apprentices experience in manufacturing workplaces.</li>
</ul>

HerJourney

<a href="https://emccanada.org/training/mec-inclusive-workplace">Inclusive Workplace Certification Training</a> is now available through EMC&#8217;s Manufacturing Essentials Certification training platform! 
This program is designed for anyone that works with, leads, or supports women apprentices, such as mentors, journeypersons, lead hands, supervisors and managers. Participants gain knowledge and skills to improve workplace culture and create inclusive environments that attract and retain diverse talent. For more information, or to register, <a href="https://emccanada.org/training/mec-inclusive-workplace">click here</a>.

Training

The HerJourney Workplace Assessment is now available! The assessment is an opportunity for employers to gain meaningful insights into their organization’s workplace culture and specifically what&#8217;s working and what can be improved to attract and retain women in skilled trades and manufacturing roles. This easy-to-use tool collects workplace information and provides employers a customized report detailing clear and actionable recommendations tailored for each participating organization.
What does the assessment cover?
The assessment evaluates your company across four key areas:
&#8211; Attraction and Education: Attracting and educating women about manufacturing opportunities. 
&#8211; Recruitment: Ensuring unbiased recruitment practices. 
&#8211; Retention: Creating inclusive environments to retain women employees. 
&#8211; Advancement: Providing equal opportunities for women&#8217;s career advancement.
For more information please see our <a href="https://files.benecms.com/emc/files/FAQs%20HerJourney.pdf">FAQ document</a> or contact <a href="mailto:smitchell@emccanada.org">Sherene Mitchell</a>, Project Manager.

Workplace Assessment

HerJourney Storytelling Videos

General Machinist

Industrial Mechanic

Welder / Fabricator

Upstream Superintendent 

Carpenter

Industry Partnership Specialist

Project Coordinator

Apprentice Carpenter

General Manager, Production Engineering

Industrial Electrician

Start Your Funding Application Today!

Canada&#8217;s skilled worker shortage is a pressing issue, especially in the manufacturing sector, where demand is increasing due to rapid technological advancements and impending retirements. WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing is a pre-apprenticeship program for youth (ages15-29), offering foundational skills in advanced manufacturing trades. Participants will explore skilled trades careers and gain hands-on experience .
This program is designed to build a skilled workforce for Canada’s manufacturing future, utilizing employer-led, hands-on training and mentorship. Participants gain access to self-directed e-learning focused on introductory technical skills in mechanical, electrical and machining.
Our employer-friendly approach lets you integrate training easily into the workplace while allowing participants to gain valuable, real-world experience during a training period of 8 weeks or more. Funded by the Government of Canada&#8217;s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, eligible employers receive a wage subsidy of up to $5000 to support quality training periods. Together we can build the manufacturing workforce of tomorrow!

About the Program

Still have questions? Download our FAQ for more information.

Eligibility

Share Your Application with Interested Employers! 

Unleash your potential with EMC’s WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing &#8211; a program funded by the Government of Canada&#8217;s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, available to new and current manufacturing employees, aged 15-29. Dive into skilled trades and cutting-edge manufacturing technology. Explore future career paths guided by industry leaders. This hands-on and online learning pre-apprenticeship program, lasting 8 or more weeks, provides you with the skills and knowledge to advance your career.
This program is right for you if you:
<ul>
<li>Are between the ages of 15 and 29</li>
<li>Enjoy hands-on work</li>
<li>Prefer an active career over desk jobs</li>
<li>Enjoy learning about new technologies</li>
<li>Are open to apprenticeship opportunities</li>
<li>Wish to ready yourself for future trades training</li>
<li>Desire to learn about multiple Skilled Trades</li>
<li>Crave career versatility</li>
<li>Aspire to a well-paying, in demand profession</li>
</ul>
Share Your Application with Interested Employers!

Get a Head Start in Skilled Trades for Advanced Manufacturing

Application Process

Participants

Program Terms & Conditions

Canadian manufacturing is undergoing a rapid transformation. In addition to workers retiring, there is a growing need to support the technological advancements occurring in manufacturing. Welcome to WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing – a program designed for youth (ages 15-29) that equips participants with high-demand skills, addressing Canada&#8217;s pressing manufacturing skill gap.
Our program, funded by the Government of Canada&#8217;s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, combines self-directed online learning with hands on training. Participants have the opportunity to build foundational skills in machining, mechanical and electrical fields while gaining insights into skilled trades courses.
WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing leverages the expertise of seasoned professionals in skilled trades and advanced manufacturing to provide a comprehensive learning journey. By participating in this program, youth will not only develop practical skills, but also make informed decisions about their future careers.
Join us in providing the next generation with hands-on training in cutting-edge manufacturing and help shape the future of the workforce through WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing.

Helping Youth Get a Head Start in Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing

Educators

WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing

WILWorks Skilled Trades in Advanced Manufacturing program introduces youth (15-29) to high demand skilled trades in advanced manufacturing.

Developing the next generation for skilled trades in advanced manufacturing

Still have questions? Contact us for more information.

Contact Us For More Information

Hiring youth? Start your funding application today!

Hiring youth can bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to your manufacturing company. By providing opportunities for young individuals, you can contribute to their professional development and foster a skilled workforce for the future. Embracing the talents of youth not only cultivates a dynamic work environment but also enables your business to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving industry.
Through EMC’s B.C. Youth in Manufacturing Initiative, funded by the Province of British Columbia’s StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, eligible employers receive a financial subsidy of up to $3,500 to offset onboarding, on-the-job training and wage costs.

Stand out among applicants with a financial subsidy to offset your onboarding, on-the-job training and wage costs.

Manufacturing &#8211; where creativity merges with technology to bring ideas to life. Experience a sense of pride in transforming raw materials into innovative products that shape our world. Explore careers that empower you to create, innovate and leave a lasting impact on society through the exciting world of manufacturing.
Imagine shaping Canada&#8217;s future by creating everyday essentials. Picture yourself at the heart of cutting-edge tech, crafting items that touch daily lives, things you buy and use daily. Engage in dynamic work that keeps both your mind and body in action. If digital tech excites you and you are drawn to hands-on work, this program is your gateway. And the best part? A rewarding, stable career awaits. If this sparks your curiosity, the manufacturing world is calling your name.

Get a Head Start With A Career in Manufacturing

For more information

Our flexible program enables youth to uncover diverse career paths through self-directed online learning, mentor-mentee experience and with hands-on training. 

Manufacturing careers offer a world of opportunities for youth, providing stable and rewarding jobs with competitive wages. By promoting careers in manufacturing, you equip youth with in-demand skills like problem-solving, critical thinking and the use of advanced technologies that will help make them valuable contributors to the industry. Inspire the next generation to explore manufacturing as a viable path.
Our flexible program enables youth to explore and uncover diverse career paths through self-directed online learning, mentor-mentee experience and with hands-on training. Check out our FAQ for more information on the program criteria and eligibility.
&nbsp;

Give Youth a Head Start in Their Career

Funded by the Province of British Columbia’s StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan 

This initiative supports skills training and short-term, paid work placements for B.C. youth aged 16-24 to develop skills and work experience for success in the workforce. British Columbia’s manufacturing employers participating in the program will receive mentorship training for one current employee and a financial subsidy of up to $3,500 for each youth work placement.

B.C. Youth in Manufacturing Initiative

Contact Arien Aubertin For More Information

<h3>Continuous Improvement Initiative For Nova Scotia Manufacturers</h3>
Unlock unparalleled potential with EMC&#8217;s Continuous Improvement Initiative, designed exclusively for Nova Scotia manufacturers! Elevate your operations to new heights with cutting-edge strategies and industry-leading practices that drive efficiency, innovation, and growth. Experience transformative workshops, hands-on training, and expert guidance tailored to your unique challenges. Together, we&#8217;ll revolutionize your processes, enhance productivity, and better position your business.
Eligible manufacturers will receive the following, as part of the initiative:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://emccanada.org/training/mec-productivity-and-continuous-improvement">Productivity &amp; Continuous Improvement Certification</a> Training ($950 per participant, regular rate $3,000 per participant)</li>
<li><a href="https://emccanada.org/training/lean-fundamentals">Lean Fundamentals Micro-credential</a> Training (fully funded)</li>
<li><a href="https://emccanada.org/about/consortiums/nova-scotia">Access to Plant Tours</a> (fully funded)</li>
</ul>
This initiative is proudly supported by Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC), Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Province of Nova Scotia Labour, Skills and Immigration (LSI).

Build greater productivity success through lean productivity!

EMC is helping manufacturers and related industries in Nova Scotia through an initiative focused on building greater productivity success through Advancing Lean/Productivity and Cluster Initiatives. Senior managers and designated members of your management team are encouraged to participate.

Continuous Improvement Initiative for Nova Scotia Manufacturers

Training Manager

Amy Edwards

Initiative spaces are limited, so register early!

<blockquote>We can in no way assume the specific challenges, or maybe even opportunities each individual manufacturer faces, but this program is an opportunity for you to raise your hand and receive some relevant, funded support.</blockquote>
We understand many challenges manufacturers were facing before the pandemic have been accentuated. We are here to support you in growth and moving 
forward!
Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC) in partnership with Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) has launched a coaching program helping manufacturers better understand the current situation they face by identifying and supporting a clear path forward.
<h3>Coaching &amp; Subject Matter Expert Support</h3>
With EMC and ACOA’s Recovery Coaching sessions, manufacturing leaders receive hands-on support for facilitating improved productivity and engagement throughout their organization.
Up to 40 one-on-one opportunities are available. These opportunities are available on a first come, first served basis. Coaching sessions are intended to provide individual manufacturers or leaders with hands-on support in planning, mapping and deploying steps to return to productivity, as well as engage improvements along the way.
<h3>In-Person /On-Line Workshop Learning</h3>
Lean / CI Workshop Series 
Tentative Session Titles
<ul>
<li>Increase your Personal Productivity</li>
<li>Understanding Current State</li>
<li>Defining a roadmap to Improvement</li>
<li>Automation as a Lean Solution</li>
<li>Problem Solving</li>
<li>Customizing you Lean Tools</li>
<li>The CI side of Green and Clean Technology</li>
<li>Creating a Lean and Green Culture</li>
</ul>
Human Capital Workshop Series 
Tentative Session Titles
<ul>
<li>The HR Perspective on Becoming an Employer of Choice</li>
<li>Self-Awareness &amp; Leadership</li>
<li>Compensation and Benefits</li>
<li>Talent Acquisition and Recruitment</li>
<li>Performance Management and Development: Driving Employee Success</li>
<li>Continuous Improvement and Future Trends: Staying Ahead of the Curve</li>
<li>HR Best Practices: Ensuring Compliance and Transparency</li>
<li>Employee Experience and Workplace Culture: Measuring Success and Driving Engagement</li>
</ul>
In-House Subject Matter Expertise 
Engage a subject matter expert in house to assist with your goals related to Human Capital or CI 
Up to 75% funding, to a max of $6,000 contribution, with a recommended or preferred consultant.

Supporting Industry Through the Manufacturing Resilience & Support Program

With the continued support of ACOA, our goal is to provide assistance to Atlantic Canada organizations during unprecedented circumstances; to set a different mindset towards solutions, to be innovative in exploring circumstantial opportunities while ensuring the well-being of an over-extended staff, to fill vacant positions and yes, even grow!

Coaching and Mentorship

Looking for more Information? We can help.

Current Offerings

Below are our current funding opportunities. We welcome you to reach out to our team, at any time, if you have inquiries or funding needs.

Funded Programs

There is a wide range of Canadian government funding options available to small businesses across Canada, sourced by the Federal, Provincial, and Municipal governments. Funding can target specific industries, such as agriculture, manufacturing, aviation/aerospace, or can be focused on project types.

Current Offerings

Funded Programs

Grant Funding

Supporting Partners