Meet Skills for Hire Atlantic: Foundations Edition
Your starting point for a career in tech
- 8-week program
- 100% online
- Free for Atlantic Canadians
2026 Foundations Programs
Growth: Data Analytics & AI
Start Date: January 19, 2026
Applications Open: November 20, 2025 - January 6, 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 6, 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 programs are delivered over the course of 8 weeks, combining self-paced learning with live Teaching Assistant-supported sessions. Skills for Hire Atlantic – Foundations Edition is designed to provide an accessible entry point into tech, helping participants build foundational skills, explore career pathways, and gain confidence in pursuing opportunities in the digital sector.
Program Questions and Answers
To be eligible for the program, you must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Have completed a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent*
- Be a resident of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, or Prince Edward Island
- Be interested in exploring careers in Data Analytics 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 online program combining self-paced learning with live virtual sessions
- An accessible entry point for individuals exploring careers in Data Analytics or Cybersecurity
- Foundational technical training designed to build confidence and practical understanding
- Career development support focused on tech career pathways, transferable skills, resume development, and LinkedIn optimization
- Industry awareness opportunities through sessions that help participants better understand the digital sector
- Access to Digital Nova Scotia’s webinars and resources for continued learning and professional growth
- Free Digital Nova Scotia Introductory membership and access to the DNS job portal featuring openings from tech industry employers
- The program runs for 8 weeks and requires consistent participation throughout
- Participants should expect to complete self-paced learning activities outside of live sessions
- Weekly virtual sessions with Teaching Assistants are a core part of the learning experience
- Be prepared to dedicate approximately 10 to 12 hours per week to coursework and program activities
- Active participation in live sessions is expected
- Regular progress in the learning platform is important to stay on track and successfully complete the program
Skills for Hire Atlantic
Since its launch, Skills for Hire Atlantic has supported more than 2,500 individuals across Atlantic Canada in building digital and professional skills through accessible, fully online training. Now evolving into a three-level model — Foundations Edition, Practitioner Edition, and Growth Edition — SFHA is creating a clearer and more flexible pathway for participants to build confidence, develop in-demand skills, and explore opportunities in Data Analytics 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
high demand
Employers across Canada’s digital economy continue to face strong demand for skilled professionals, particularly in data analytics and cybersecurity roles. Labour market reports highlight that these occupations remain among the most in-demand, with ongoing needs for individuals who can apply technical skills in real-world contexts and support growing digital and security priorities.
Facts from Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC), Digital Economy Pulse: Productivity and Employment Trends in Canada, 2025; Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) labour market projections.