The federal government will create 470 employment and skills training positions for young Canadians in natural resources sectors through a $15-million investment announced Wednesday.
The funding targets youth aged 15 to 30 in energy, forestry, mining, earth sciences and clean technology fields through the Science and Technology Internship Program (STIP) – Green Jobs. Employers can apply for funding to hire, train and mentor participants for up to 12 months.
Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson and Jobs and Families Minister Patty Hajdu made the announcement as part of the government’s Youth Employment and Skills Strategy.
“Canada’s natural resources industries need talented and well-trained young people if we are going to make Canada an energy superpower and create the strongest economy in the G7 for decades to come,” Hodgson said.
The program operates through 11 delivery organizations across Canada, including Clean Foundation Nova Scotia, Colleges and Institutes Canada, and the Environmental Careers Organization of Canada. The initiative aims for 60 percent participation from employment equity groups.
Program targets underrepresented groups
STIP – Green Jobs has created more than 5,300 green jobs and skills training opportunities since 2017 across all provinces and territories. The program forms part of Canada’s sustainable jobs approach outlined in its 2023-2025 interim plan and the Canadian Sustainable Jobs Act passed in 2024.
“This $15-million investment will create hundreds of good-paying jobs, build up our green energy infrastructure and grow our economy for generations to come,” Hajdu said.
The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy receives $351.2 million in funding for 2025-26 and involves 12 federal departments and agencies. STIP – Green Jobs has operated under the strategy since 1997.
Funding available across multiple sectors
Eligible employers can access funding for positions in critical minerals, earth science and clean technology sectors alongside traditional natural resources areas. The program connects youth with hands-on experience needed to transition into the labour market.
The initiative supports the government’s whole-of-government approach to sustainable job creation while building economic strength in natural resources sectors that employ hundreds of thousands of Canadians.
Employers and potential interns can find application details on Natural Resources Canada’s STIP – Green Jobs website. For more information, see https://natural-resources.canada.ca/corporate/careers/green-jobs
