Ontario Tech University exploring academic opportunities to support the rail industry’s need for skilled talent

Canada’s rail sector faces an urgent challenge: the need for skilled professionals to support its rapid growth and transition toward sustainable transportation. As rail projects continue to expand across the country, so does the demand for engineers and skilled professionals.

Ontario Tech University is exploring ways to enhance its educational offerings to prepare students for successful careers in this critical field.

Partnering with industry to address gaps

Ontario Tech recently discussed the growth and demands of the rail industry at the Future Forward: Competencies Forum. Dr. Scott Nokleby, Associate Dean, Academic, from the university’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, joined a panel of experts from Polytechnique Montréal, Alstom—recognized for its leadership in sustainable and smart mobility—and AtkinsRéalis, a global leader in engineering and nuclear professional services.

The September 19 panel emphasized the urgent need for engineering expertise across various fields, including rail transit design, safety and signalling, train design, and operations and maintenance. Ontario Tech is responding to that need by developing a rail specialization in collaboration with Alstom and AtkinsRéalis.

Collaborative learning and engagement

Partnerships with Alstom and AtkinsRéalis help the university better understand the rail industry’s needs and plan effective responses.

AtkinsRéalis is a long-standing partner in the university’s Student Enrichment Program, which supports experiential learning, student-industry engagement and career readiness. Initially involved in the university’s Nuclear Engineering program, AtkinsRéalis has extended its collaboration to include the rail sector. Alstom similarly works with Ontario Tech researchers to help shape the future of sustainable rail mobility and education, with a focus on energy-efficient solutions.

Responding to industry needs

The university has a well-established history of working closely with partners to ensure its programs meet real-world demands. Students across various disciplines benefit from hands-on learning experiences, research collaborations, and direct connections to the workforce. By preparing students to enter high-demand fields, Ontario Tech continues to support the energy, nuclear, and health-care sectors, and now rail.

The university’s Partnership Office serves a critical role in facilitating and sustaining collaborations between industry and faculties, leading to invaluable opportunities for students, such as guest lectures, capstone projects, job opportunities, and industry insights.

Quotes

“The university’s strong relationships with partners creates opportunities that benefit both students and the industries we serve. Collaborations like those with Alstom and AtkinsRéalis equip Ontario Tech graduates with the skills they need to thrive in high-demand fields and lead innovation in sustainability.”
-Lindsay Coolidge, Executive Director, Cooperative Education, Experiential Learning and Career Development (Interim) and Director, External Relations and Partnerships, Ontario Tech University

“Railways have been central to Canada’s development and economic prosperity, a role they continue to play today. Rail is crucial to decarbonizing the transportation sector and remains the most efficient way to move people in urban environments. The Railway Engineering specialization we are developing will prepare our graduates to make immediate contributions to this growing field.”
-Scott Nokleby, Associate Dean, Academic, and Professor, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Ontario Tech University