Ontario Tech University Steps Up to Address Rail Industry's Growing Talent Needs

Canada’s rail industry is facing a significant challenge in finding skilled professionals to support its rapid expansion and transition towards sustainable transportation. With rail projects multiplying nationwide, the demand for engineers and skilled workers keeps rising. Ontario Tech University is now investigating new academic pathways to help fill this gap.

At the recent Future Forward: Competencies Forum, Ontario Tech engaged in crucial discussions about rail industry growth and workforce needs. Dr. Scott Nokleby, Associate Dean, Academic from the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, participated in an expert panel alongside representatives from Polytechnique Montréal, Alstom (a sustainable mobility leader), and AtkinsRéalis (a global engineering and nuclear services firm).

The September 19 panel highlighted the pressing demand for engineering expertise across multiple areas. These areas include safety and signalling, rail transit design, train design, and operations and maintenance. In response, Ontario Tech is developing a rail specialization program in partnership with Alstom and AtkinsRéalis.

The university’s partnerships with Alstom and AtkinsRéalis are helping shape its understanding of industry requirements and guide its educational response.

AtkinsRéalis, already involved in the university’s Student Enrichment Program, has expanded its partnership from Nuclear Engineering to include the rail sector. Meanwhile, Alstom collaborates with Ontario Tech researchers to advance sustainable rail mobility education, emphasizing energy-efficient solutions.

Ontario Tech has consistently worked with industry partners to ensure its programs align with real-world needs. Students across disciplines gain valuable experience through research projects, hands-on learning, and direct industry connections. The university’s track record of supporting various sectors, including nuclear, energy, and health-care, now extends to rail.

The university’s Partnership Office plays a vital role in fostering industry-faculty collaborations, creating valuable opportunities for students through guest lectures, capstone projects, employment opportunities, and industry exposure.