Net Zero Building Training Strategy

This project is designed to support the Nova Scotia building sector's transition to net zero through a combination of targeted training, comprehensive research, and strategic communications. By focusing on curriculum development and delivery, the project will enhance the skills and knowledge of building professionals, particularly those from equity-deserving groups. The project will advance innovative technologies and approaches that address key gaps in achieving net zero goals. Training will cover critical areas such as Building Officials Training, Climate Literacy for the Building Sector, the Integrated Design Process (IDP), and the Retrofit Navigator/Concierge Program.

In addition to training, the project will conduct research to assess the implications of the net zero transition on tradespeople, design professionals, and building operators. This research will include developing Workforce Readiness Roadmaps and creating a comprehensive Nova Scotia Building Sector Asset Map.

To ensure broad awareness and engagement, the project will leverage traditional and digital communication channels, including websites, social media, webinars, and video content. A key focus will be the promotion of green building careers in Nova Scotia through the Action Accelerator Series and related outreach efforts.

Objectives

1) Develop and Deliver Targeted Training Programs: Create and supply comprehensive training for building professionals, focusing on equity-deserving groups, to enhance their skills in sustainable practices and net-zero building technologies. Key training initiatives include:

• Building Officials Training
• Climate Literacy for the Building Sector
• Integrated Design Process (IDP)
• Retrofit Navigator/Concierge Program

2) Conduct Comprehensive Industry Research: Analyze the impact of the net-zero transition on various stakeholders within the building sector, including trades, design professionals, and building operators, by developing:

• Workforce Readiness Roadmaps
• Nova Scotia Building Sector Asset Map

3) Foster Industry Collaboration and Engagement: Facilitate knowledge-sharing and collaboration between key stakeholders in the building sector through engagement initiatives, ensuring an inclusive and coordinated approach to achieving net zero goals in Nova Scotia via:

• The Action Accelerator Series
• Website content

Outcomes

1) Enhanced Training and Workforce Development:

• Delivery of comprehensive training programs that increase the knowledge and capacity of building professionals, with a focus on equity-deserving groups. This will result in a workforce that is better equipped to meet the challenges of achieving net zero in the building sector.
• Improved technical skills and understanding in areas such as building code enforcement, climate literacy, integrated design processes, and retrofitting.

2) Data-Driven Strategic Planning for the Workforce:

• Development of the Workforce Readiness Roadmaps will provide clear insights into the skills and training needed for the transition to net zero, enabling informed decision-making by employers, educational institutions, and policymakers.
• The Nova Scotia Building Sector Asset Map will offer a detailed understanding of the roles and resources available across the sector, fostering better collaboration and resource allocation.

3) Broader Industry and Public Engagement:

• A successful communication strategy, including the Action Accelerator Series, will increase public awareness and interest in green building careers, promoting the building sector as a key player in Nova Scotia's net-zero transition.
• Webinars, social media, and video campaigns will amplify the project's impact, reaching a wide audience and driving engagement across the industry.

4) Stronger Industry Collaboration and Integration:

• The project will create stronger partnerships and networks between stakeholders in the building sector, facilitating collaboration on sustainable practices, research, and workforce development. This will enhance the sector's capacity to meet provincial and national climate goals.

5) Progress Towards Net-Zero Building Targets:

• By advancing the skills, technologies, and collaboration needed for sustainable building practices, the project will make a significant contribution towards Nova Scotia’s net-zero emissions targets, particularly in the construction and building operations sectors.

Support for the project

This project is supported by funding provided by the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables.