Schneider Electric Canada, a global energy technology leader, and Centennial College today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The two will explore a collaboration focused on advancing workforce development, experiential learning, applied research, innovation and sustainability. The agreement establishes a framework for the organizations to identify and pursue opportunities that help prepare students for the future of work, while supporting Canada's evolving innovation economy.
The collaboration combines Schneider Electric's expertise in electrification, automation and digitalization with Centennial College's commitment to applied learning, industry collaboration and workforce development. It is intended to support greater connections between industry and academia while creating opportunities to advance talent development, future skills readiness and technology-driven innovation.
Potential areas of focus include industry-informed education, work-integrated learning, digital transformation, smart technologies and sustainability initiatives that support decarbonization and energy efficiency.
"Strong collaboration between industry and education is essential to preparing the workforce of tomorrow," said Hugo Lafontaine, Vice President, Industrial Automation, Schneider Electric Canada. "As Executive Chair of our Educational Committee, strengthening the connection between education and industry is an area I’m deeply passionate about. Through this collaboration with Centennial College, we look forward to exploring opportunities that connect students with real-world experiences, emerging technologies and the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly digital, electrified and sustainable economy. Together, we can help foster innovation, support talent development and create meaningful pathways between the classroom and the workplace."
“The energy transition is a people transition,” said Dr. Craig Stephenson, President and CEO, Centennial College. “Canada will need about 130,000 more skilled workers to double our electricity supply by 2050, and no college can train them on its own. This partnership connects our students with Schneider Electric’s technology, expertise and real-world challenges — in the classroom, in the lab and on the job — helping deliver on our mission of education for career success.”
By bringing together industry expertise, applied learning and emerging technologies, the collaboration aims to create new opportunities for students, educators and industry partners while contributing to a more resilient, innovative and sustainable future.
About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating and digitalizing industries, businesses and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centres, factories, infrastructure and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and one million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world's most sustainable companies.
About Centennial College
Centennial College, founded in 1966, is Ontario's first public college. Anchored primarily in the eastern part of the Greater Toronto Area, the College is renowned for its outstanding teaching, creative curriculum and robust network of partnerships. Centennial annually welcomes thousands of full-time and part-time students from across the GTA, Canada and the world. These students pursue their education in diploma, certificate and degree programs across various fields, including business, media, arts, community and consumer services, engineering technology, health care and transportation.
For more information:
- Jodi Smith-Meisner
Schneider Electric Canada - Samiha Fariha
Golin Ketchum - media@centennialcollege.ca