IMQ launches a consortium to address shipbuilding workforce needs

In response to the rapid expansion of Quebec’s shipbuilding sector and the rising demand for skilled labour, the Institut maritime du Québec (IMQ) has launched a shipbuilding training consortium. The initiative aims to develop a specialized college-level training offer founded upon the maritime industry’s realities and requirements and tailored to emerging labour market demands.

The consortium brings together college institutions committed to playing a key role in developing the skills required to position Quebec as a leader in shipbuilding. These institutions include:

• Cégep de Chicoutimi
• Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles (affiliated with the School of Fisheries and Aquaculture)
• Cégep de Jonquière
• Cégep de Lévis

Cégep de Rimouski (affiliated with IMQ)

• Cégep de Sorel-Tracy

Coordinated by IMQ, the consortium seeks to build a collective, sustainable response to workforce challenges in this strategically important and rapidly evolving sector. The partner institutions are committed to sharing their expertise to design technical training programs that meet industry demands, including robotics, electronics, marine materials handling, and project management skills.

Over the next few months, efforts will focus on defining collaboration frameworks, conducting detailed training needs analyses, and creating modular learning pathways that incorporate prior learning recognition and ongoing professional development