As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Canadian Land Reclamation Association (CLRA), ECO Canada is proud to highlight the vital role of education and workforce development in advancing reclamation efforts across Canada. With over 26 years of experience, ECO Canada’s employment programs have bridged the gap between academic training and impactful careers in environmental fields like land reclamation.
Building Career Pathways
Ensuring students and post-graduates have access to meaningful jobs that align with their aspirations is critical for individual and organizational success. ECO Canada’s employment programs are designed to stimulate career pathways, support skill development, and contribute to business growth through wage and training funding. Over the years, these initiatives have made a tangible difference:
- 18,421 youth jobs created
- $198 million in funding provided
- Support for over 5,000 employers across Canada
These programs give young professionals hands-on experience in the environmental sector, kickstarting their careers while addressing the need for skilled talent in reclamation and sustainability.
Success in Action: Sahar and Forests Ontario
One example of the impact of our programs is the story of Sahar, a Master’s student in Environment and Sustainability at the University of Western Ontario. Through ECO Canada’s Student Work Placement (Co-op) Program, Sahar connected with Forests Ontario, where she played a pivotal role in advancing their mission to restore forested landscapes and sustain biodiversity.
Sahar’s work included verifying and updating native tree databases, enhancing sustainability strategies, and researching nature-based solutions and carbon markets. She applied her academic skills to ensure the right species were planted in the correct ecological zones, directly supporting Forests Ontario’s goal of planting the right tree in the right place for the right reasons.
Mentorship and Growth
A key element of Sahar’s success was the mentorship she received from Peter Moddle, the National Program Manager at Forests Ontario. Peter’s guidance not only enhanced Sahar’s professional development but also empowered her to explore new ideas and attend sustainability-focused events, broadening her industry knowledge and network.
“The dedication and commitment demonstrated by Sahar during her co-op brought fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that helped drive forward progress,” said Peter. “It’s a win-win experience when both employers and employees invest in each other.”
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate this milestone with the CLRA, we’re reminded of the power of education and collaboration in advancing reclamation. ECO Canada’s employment programs not only help students strating impactful careers but also support organizations access top talent, creating a brighter future for land reclamation across Canada.
Learn More
Discover how ECO Canada’s Employment Programs and Student Work Placement programs can benefit you or your organization. Visit eco.ca to explore opportunities and join us in driving sustainable change through education and innovation.
