NETCO Launches National Sustainable Jobs Initiative
July 22, 2026
NETCO Launches National Sustainable Jobs Initiative to Modernize Powerline Technician Training Across Canada
Government of Canada investment through the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy Sustainable Jobs Stream supports innovative drone training for Red Seal Powerline Technicians
The National Electrical Trade Council (NETCO), with support from the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy – Sustainable Jobs Stream, is launching the Red Seal Powerline Technician Upgrade Initiative, a national training project designed to equip powerline technicians with Transport Canada-accredited drone training and certification skills to support safer, more efficient, and lower-carbon powerline maintenance operations across Canada.
Delivered in partnership with Saskatchewan Polytechnic and IBEW Local Unions across the country, the initiative represents a significant investment in Canada’s skilled trades workforce and clean energy future. Through a total investment of $3,204,846, the 57-month project will run until March 31, 2030, supporting advanced training opportunities for both unionized and non-unionized journeypersons and apprentices, including individuals from equity-deserving groups.
Training will initially be delivered in Saskatchewan, Yukon, Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador, with additional regions expected to join the initiative as the project expands nationally.
Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy Sustainable Jobs Stream, the initiative aligns with Canada’s commitment to building a resilient, highly skilled workforce capable of supporting sustainable infrastructure, clean energy development, and the transition to a low-carbon economy. By integrating advanced drone technology into powerline inspection and maintenance practices, the project will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve operational efficiency, and enhance worker safety in the utility sector.
The project’s objectives include:
- Delivering Transport Canada-approved drone training and certification for Red Seal Powerline Technicians;
- Increasing participation in training through wrap-around supports, including tuition assistance
- Enhancing safety and efficiency for Powerline Technicians by using drone technology to assess storm and infrastructure damage, conduct aerial inspections and mapping, and reduce the need for technicians to work in hazardous or difficult-to-access environments;
- Strengthening collaboration among IBEW Local Unions and industry partners;
- Expanding the skilled trades sector’s capacity to support a sustainable, low-carbon economy; and Building long-term teaching and training capacity within participating union training centres.
The project is expected to train and certify 350 powerline technicians in drone operations and through 35 training cohorts delivered over the life of the project.
“This initiative represents an important step forward for Canada’s electrical and utility sectors. With support from the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy Sustainable Jobs Stream, we are equipping skilled tradespeople with innovative tools that improve safety, increase efficiency, and support Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Drone technology allows technicians to assess damage, inspect infrastructure, and map work areas more safely and effectively, particularly following storms and emergency events. Through this partnership, NETCO and our training partners are helping ensure Canada’s powerline workforce is prepared for the future.”
— Chris Swick, Executive Director, NETCO
Project partners include Saskatchewan Polytechnic, First People’s Development Inc. (FPDI), IBEW Local 2067, IBEW Local 2085, IBEW Local 37, IBEW Local 1620, IBEW 1007 and IBEW 424 at this time.
Throughout the initiative, NETCO and its partners will deliver ongoing recruitment, training, evaluation, recertification, and sustainability planning activities to ensure long-term success and continued industry impact.
