- techNL is expanding the high school training & internship programming thanks to ~$1.8 million from Hibernia
- The techNL High School Tech Immersion Program is supporting the future talent needs of the technology sector
- Technology is critical in developing the province’s natural resources
Today techNL, a non-profit industry association representing the province’s technology sector, announced a ~$1.8 million contribution from Hibernia Management and Development Company Ltd. (Hibernia) to expand its high school technical training and internship program for youth.
In 2021, techNL introduced the High School Tech Internship Program, which offered high school students summer training programs and work-integrated learning opportunities in partnership with local businesses. Interest in the program has increased exponentially over the past three years, thanks to initial support from the provincial Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency to establish the program. Funding from Hibernia will allow the programs to significantly expand, which means more students will be able to participate. The funding will also be used to add new engagement activities and create a Makerspace in the new Co. Innovation Centre, which will give students access to hands-on tools like 3-D printing and design software to develop vital technical skills.
Hibernia is well known for its support of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) focused organizations and programming, adding techNL will open up more STEM opportunities for NL students.
“The oil and gas industry thrives on technology and innovation,” says Duncan Fitzpatrick, HMDC’s president. “Helping students develop an early interest in technology and digital skills will open up more opportunities as they progress through their studies. Moreover, we expect our investment will create excitement about fields essential to the continued development of the province’s natural resources.”
“Empowering youth throughout the province with digital skills and work experience is crucial for propelling the province’s tech sector forward,” says Florian Villaumé, techNL CEO. “With HMDC’s commitment, techNL will expand high school engagement by 120%, offering more students hands-on skills, real-world experience, insights and inspiration to pursue an innovative career in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Applications for the 2024 High School Internship Program (HSTIP) opened in April and 39 students have been selected to take part in the 2024 summer program. techNL will also be offering digital skills training, industry engagement, and networking opportunities for students throughout the school year. More information on techNL and the HSTIP program can be found at techNL.ca.
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Media Contact:
Amy Fitzpatrick
Manager, Marketing and Communications
amy@technl.ca
(709) 690-6000
Additional Quotes:
“Carnegie Learning is proud to support techNL’s High School Tech Internship Program, which provides invaluable paid work opportunities and firsthand exposure to the tech industry. Since 2021, we’ve been honoured to welcome an increasingly diverse group of students from rural and urban communities and provide them with opportunities to “see themselves” in the tech sector. By investing in the youth of Newfoundland and Labrador, we are helping to guide their educational and career journeys, fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders in technology.”
Hasan Hai (he/him)
Vice President of Canadian Operations, Carnegie Learning
“The high school tech immersion program (HSTIP) has been a very valuable first step of my journey in STEM. It reinforced my interest in the tech industry, coding, as well as my love for finding new technology that could help the environment. I was so inspired from this program that I continue to participate in STEM related areas, for example enrolling in an internship at WISE NL, and joining my school robotics team. Without the high school tech immersion program, I would not have had these opportunities open up to me, and I am so grateful.”
Waffa Zahralyn
Grade 12 student and 2023 HSTIP participant.
About techNL
techNL is a not-for-profit membership association that enables a thriving innovation-driven economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. techNL provides visibility, business growth services and a collective voice to the tech sector in Newfoundland and Labrador with a vision to make Newfoundland and Labrador the most sought-after Canadian tech ecosystem, globally recognized for its collaborative community, diversity and quality of life.
A key focus on business growth includes programs and services to support talent pipeline expansion, member connections, digital transformation and ecosystem development in Newfoundland and Labrador. More information can be found on the website technl.ca.