How VCC is preparing B.C.’s workforce for the clean energy transition

B.C. is at a turning point on its journey to a more sustainable future.

By 2050, the province’s clean energy sector is expected to provide more than 400,000 jobs for British Columbians—up from 83,100 in 2025. However, Canada currently faces a shortage of workers with the skills needed to meet this target; recent research shows that by 2032, 40 percent of new jobs in trades, transport and equipment will require an enhanced skill set as Canada transitions toward a net-zero economy.

The new hub for clean energy and automotive research and innovation at Vancouver Community College (VCC) will help evolve B.C.’s clean energy workforce.

The $291.3-million Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation (CCEAI), expected to open in 2027, will help meet industry demands by upskilling B.C.’s next generation of clean energy and automotive specialists. It will enable VCC to welcome another 700 new full-time equivalent students.

“As the city’s oldest public post-secondary institution, VCC has continuously evolved to stay ahead of labour market demands,” explains Ajay Patel, VCC’s president and CEO. “Now is no exception. Thanks to our longstanding industry relationships, many of our instructors are working professionals who have helped us build new clean energy programs that meet the real-time expectations of B.C.’s job market.”

Read more: How partnering with Vancouver Community College builds community and real-world change

Ahead of the CCEAI opening, VCC is launching a range of programs aimed at training students for future careers in clean energy.

These new programs span key growth areas for B.C., from construction to transportation. They will produce workers who are environmentally conscious, technically skilled and ready to make a long-term impact in vital industries.

“With the new CCEAI building and programs, VCC is uniquely positioned to equip B.C.’s workforce with skills that broaden their opportunities and future-proof their careers in line with job market needs both now and in the future,” says Patel. “But our work doesn’t stop here—VCC will continue working with industry to meet B.C.’s labour market needs and sustainability goals, creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Learn more about VCC’s CCEAI building at vcc.ca/campus-plan.

You can also learn more about VCC’s clean energy programs at vcc.ca/clean-energy.

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