Ontario Tech launches EDGE to fast-track executive learning in the age of AI
Industry-aligned training helps leaders close critical skills gaps through executive education and rapid workforce development
March 25, 2026
Ontario Tech University has launched EDGE, a private training company powered by the university that delivers executive learning and rapid skills development for organizations navigating technological change and evolving labour market demands.
Across industries, leaders face growing pressure to understand technologies such as artificial intelligence and prepare their teams for new ways of working. Boards and executives need timely, specialized training.
EDGE responds to this challenge through targeted education developed with industry and subject-matter experts. It delivers two primary streams: executive learning for senior decision-makers and rapid skills development to address urgent labour market needs. This approach emphasizes executive decision-making, governance and strategies for advanced technologies, while helping organizations close critical skills gaps.
Ontario Tech brings a human-centred approach to technology, grounded in ethics by design. Through its applied research and use of emerging technologies, the university has established guardrails that support responsible AI implementation, monitoring and governance. These experiences inform EDGE programming, helping executives and boards navigate change with confidence and accountability.
“Leaders need precise, expert-led learning that matches the pace of change,” said Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor of Ontario Tech University. “EDGE helps executives and boards act quickly and confidently as they align talent and strategy with their values and priorities.”
Programs are developed with employers and delivered in flexible formats, including on-site, online and hybrid models, to align with immediate workforce needs.
Executive learning
The Executive Learning stream includes courses focused on artificial intelligence and related technologies, including the AI Accelerator and AI Governance, Compliance and Due Diligence executive program. These initiatives help participants understand how AI is reshaping organizational strategy, governance, operations and change management.
The AI Accelerator Intensive was developed by leading experts in artificial intelligence and education, including Dr. Hossein Rahnama, head of the sAIpien program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab and founder and CEO of Flybits.
“Artificial intelligence is no longer a future consideration. It is a present-day competitive imperative,” said Jennifer Alsop, President and CEO of EDGE at Ontario Tech University. “While AI adoption in Canada is growing, it still lags behind many global competitors. Leaders need the knowledge and tools to understand these technologies and govern their use effectively.”
Rapid skills alignment
In addition to executive education, EDGE supports organizations facing urgent labour shortages through its Rapid Skills Alignment initiative.
These efforts help organizations address critical skills gaps. EDGE works directly with employers to design and deliver targeted training that supports workers transitioning into new and in-demand roles.
Focused on sectors critical to Canada’s economic future, including energy, health care and mining, the initiative prepares participants for roles not always served by traditional education pathways.
For more information, visit EDGEotu.ca.