Saskatchewan Polytechnic is helping Canadian workers adapt to a rapidly changing economy with new micro-credentials targeting manufacturing and agricultural technology. As new technologies reshape industries, employers and workers face growing pressure to keep pace. Targeted upskilling is emerging as one of the most effective ways to build resilience, support growth and stay competitive.
Canadian workers are among the most educated in the world, but the supply of skilled labour in advanced manufacturing and agricultural technology is falling behind industry demand. Deloitte’s 2023 Macroeconomic Analysis of Canada’s High-Growth Sectors found that 80 per cent of Canadian advanced manufacturing companies reported a skills gap, with only 13 per cent of manufacturers at an advanced stage of digital transformation. While Canada’s agri-food sector is well-positioned for global leadership, it must also mitigate labour shortages and barriers to technology adoption.
To meet the changing needs of these industries, Sask Polytech is delivering micro-credentials in partnership with Colleges and Institutes Canada’s Upskilling for the Innovation Economy program. Funded by Upskill Canada, powered by Palette Skills, and the Government of Canada, the program is designed specifically for mid-career workers to bridge the gap between existing skillsets and the evolving needs of high-growth sectors.
These short-term, high-impact programs combine online learning with hands-on training, allowing participants to gain relevant expertise while continuing to work. Graduates earn a statement of achievement, strengthen their qualifications and improve career mobility.
The curriculum was developed by Colleges and Institutes Canada in collaboration with post-secondary institutions, businesses and industry experts. This approach ensures the training addresses real skills gaps and delivers practical, job-ready knowledge.
“Sask Polytech is proud to be part of this national initiative to close skills gaps in high-growth industries,” says Gerry Youzwa, director of Training Solutions at Sask Polytech. “These micro-credentials give working professionals the opportunity to build specialized skills and stay competitive, without putting their careers on hold. It’s a practical, high-impact way we can support local industry and help our communities thrive.”
Sask Polytech is offering the following programs:
- Advanced manufacturing: Industrial internet of things (IIoT)
There is a growing demand for data-driven decision-making and automation in advanced manufacturing sectors. The program will focus on system integration, Python programming, data representation and project management.
Designed for: manufacturing workers, including assembly operators and technicians, aiming for specialized roles in IIoT.
- Advanced manufacturing: Integrated design, fabrication and data analysis
Supporting digital transformation and productivity improvements across Canada’s industrial manufacturing base, participants will learn CAD/CAM technologies, tool-pathing and data analysis for optimizing manufacturing processes.
Designed for: manufacturing workers, including millwrights, machinists, technologists and technicians, virtual designers, and data analysts, looking to enhance digital literacy skills.
- Agricultural technology: Greenhouse practices and operational fundamentals
Focusing on sustainable agriculture and food security, with a focus on Indigenous and rural community needs, participants receive training in plant propagation, greenhouse operations, pest and nutrient management, irrigation design and logistical decision-making.
Designed for: individuals interested in greenhouse operations, sustainable food systems, and community-driven agriculture.
Each program is designed to be practical and affordable, with a $200 (plus tax) registration fee once accepted. Free tuition may be available for eligible learners from underrepresented groups. For eligibility criteria or to apply, visit upskill for the innovation economy.
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