Meet Skills for Hire Atlantic: Growth Edition
Move beyond the basics
- 8-week program
- 100% online
- Free for Atlantic Canadians
2026 Growth Programs
Growth: Data Analytics & AI
Start Date: January 19, 2026
Applications Open: November 20, 2025 - January 4, 2026
In the SFHA Advanced Data Analytics & AI program, you will expand your technical skills through applied learning in data engineering, business intelligence, machine learning, and generative AI. Over eight weeks, participants will build hands-on experience with SQL, Python, cloud tools, and MLOps practices, culminating in a capstone project that demonstrates readiness for mid-level data and AI roles. Applications close at 9:00 AM AST on January 4, 2026.
Growth: Cybersecurity
Start Date: January 19, 2026
Applications Open: November 20, 2025 - January 4, 2026
In the SFHA Advanced Cybersecurity program, you will strengthen your technical depth through applied learning in cloud security, network defense, penetration testing, and incident response. Over eight weeks, participants will build hands-on experience and complete a capstone project simulating a real-world security assessment. Applications close at 9:00 AM AST on January 4, 2026.
These online, blended programs are delivered over the course of 8 weeks, combining self-paced learning with live, instructor-supported sessions. Skills for Hire Atlantic: Growth Edition provides built-in guidance and industry engagement opportunities, helping participants strengthen their expertise and confidently pursue career growth or mid-level opportunities in the digital sector.
Program Questions and Answers
To be eligible for our program, you must be:
- 18 years or older
- Have completed a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Be a resident of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador, New Brunswick, or Prince Edward Island
- Demonstrate the technical prerequisites required for success in a mid-level training program, such as prior foundational training or experience in Data Analytics & AI, or Cybersecurity
*In lieu of a high school diploma, individuals can still apply to this program with a recommendation from a partnering community organization
- No cost to participate
- 8-week blended learning program combining self-paced modules with live online sessions
- Curriculum designed in consultation with Atlantic Canada’s leading tech companies, ensuring real-world relevance and alignment with in-demand mid-level skills
- Hands-on projects and capstone experience that demonstrate technical depth and professional readiness
- Mentorship and industry engagement opportunities through panels and networking events
- Access to Digital Nova Scotia’s webinars and resources for continued professional growth
- Free Digital Nova Scotia Introductory membership
- and access to the DNS job portal featuring openings from tech industry employers
- The duration of the program is 8 weeks and requires your full commitment throughout
- Participants should expect to complete independent work and applied projects outside of live sessions
- Weekly virtual sessions with Teaching Assistants are mandatory for active participation
- Be prepared to dedicate 12+ hours per week to coursework and project activities
- Participation includes camera-on engagement and active collaboration during live sessions
- Regular progress in the learning platform is required to stay on track and successfully complete the program
Skills for Hire Atlantic
Over the course of four years, Skills for Hire Atlantic will train 2,250 individuals across Atlantic Canada, helping them gain the digital and professional skills needed to contribute to — and grow within — the region’s tech ecosystem. Together, the SFHA Foundational and SFHA: Growth Edition programs are addressing critical workforce gaps by preparing both entry-level and mid-level professionals for in-demand roles in Data Analytics, AI, and Cybersecurity.
2024
1,472,770
The Canadian Information & Communications Technology (ICT) sector had 802,913 direct workers, and when including indirect and induced impacts it supported approximately 1,472,770 total jobs across Canada.
2025
11.7%
Canada’s digital economy employs about 2.4 million individuals, making up roughly 11.7% of the national workforce.
2025
in-demand
Companies in Canada’s digital economy continue to demand mid- and senior-career staff with specialized skills and experience, including roles such as software engineers, data scientists and cybersecurity specialists
Facts from The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC), Digital Economy Pulse: Productivity and Employment Trends in Canada, August 2025