Exploring Emerging Energy with Gridworks Energy Group

Published On

August 28, 2024

Students from Women Building Futures’ (WBF) Journey to Trades program recently toured Gridworks Energy Group, Edmonton’s longest-running and only Indigenous-owned and operated solar company. A long-time supporter of Women Building Futures, Gridworks Energy Group gave students a first-hand look at what to expect if they choose to work in this industry.   

“A key component of our work is ensuring that we are partnering with industry to introduce opportunities to students that may be in high demand as the energy industry evolves,” says Nancy Milakovic, WBF’s director of training and development.  

Thank you to Gridworks owner Randall Benson, who is also a WBF board member, for speaking to students about solar energy and showing them around the Gridworks facility.   

During the tour, Randall shared a few tips for success with the Journey to Trades students who will soon enter the workforce:  

• Show up every day.  

• Talk to your journeyperson when things are unclear, ask questions, learn and clarify.  

• Safety first! A safety mindset will get you a long way. 

• Always be part of the team. Remember to communicate.  

Site visits like this help deepen students’ understanding, build confidence and create an opportunity for students to connect with employment partners. 

Learning Opportunities in Emerging Energy 

Thanks to a grant from the Alberta Advanced Education, WBF is developing a new curriculum for Alberta students that will include an introduction to energy landscape in Alberta, the importance of energy to society and career opportunities in emerging energy.  

The new curriculum will be developed through consultation with industry partners, academic experts, external networks and an external advisory group. The curriculum will be finalized by January 2025 and piloted in WBF’s Alberta Journey to Trades program.   

Upskilling opportunities will also be available for Alberta alumni to help them advance their careers. 

“Women Building Futures’ primary focus is to build students’ confidence and capability,” says Carol Moen, WBF president and CEO. “When women show up to job sites with strong knowledge of the job and confidence in themselves, it can lead to amazing opportunities.” 

The Journey to Trades program provides students with the basic skills, experience and safety certifications to begin a career in the construction trades. It is currently offered in Edmonton, Calgary, Fort McMurray, and Regina. Learn more HERE