Author: Chelsie Cake

Newfoundland and Labrador Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (HyIP) joins Canadian alliance of hydrogen hubs to accelerate clean energy innovation

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2025

econext, on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (HyIP), has signed an agreement with three other leading Canadian hydrogen hubs conducting similar research and activities in developing hydrogen energy technologies.

The collaboration between HyIP, Simon Fraser University (British Columbia), La Vallée de la Transition Énergétique (VTE, Québec), and the Edmonton Regional Hydrogen Hub (Alberta) will form the Pan-Canadian Alliance of Hydrogen Hubs, representing a major national milestone in advancing Canada’s leadership in clean hydrogen technologies. By linking hydrogen hubs from across Canada, the partnership aims to break down geographic barriers and leverage regional strengths.

The four partners have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), outlining their joint mission to accelerate the development of hydrogen technologies as a cornerstone of Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Through collaboration, the hubs will grow a national hydrogen ecosystem to drive investment, scale breakthrough solutions, support workforce development, and ensure energy security and sustainability for generations to come.

The MOU outlines areas of mutual interest and cooperation:
● Supporting the advancement of hydrogen-related projects in each region.
● Promoting the use, application, and commercialization of Canadian-developed hydrogen technologies.
● Facilitating education, training, and community engagement at all levels.
● Ensuring knowledge transfer and sharing best practices across economic, financial, and technical domains.

Six projects, totaling more than 20 gigawatts of clean energy, are being pursued in Newfoundland and Labrador for the purpose of hydrogen production and export.

“Canada is primed to be a global leader in clean hydrogen technology, and Newfoundland and Labrador will be central to production and transatlantic trade with Europe,” said Laura Barron, econext’s CEO. “On behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (HyIP), we are proud to join the Pan-Canadian Alliance of Hydrogen Hubs to help our nation reach its potential.”

About HyIP

The Newfoundland and Labrador Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (HyIP) is a unique collaboration between research institutions, industry, and Indigenous groups. Collaborators include Memorial University and its Marine Institute, College of the North Atlantic, econext, Miawpukek First Nation, and Qalipu First Nation. More information on HyIP can be found at https://hy-ip.ca.

About econext

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities. econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.

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Media Contacts

Chelsie Cake
econext
709.979.0389
cake@econext.ca

econext and the City of St. John’s launch new Shift Program to help residents make energy-efficient home renovations

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2025

St. John’s, NL– econext, in partnership with the City of St. John’s, has launched Make the Shift NL (The Shift Program), a free guidance service that helps homeowners make their homes more energy efficient.

The Shift Program connects residents with Home Energy Navigators who provide information on home energy efficiency renovations and help homeowners access available resources to complete these upgrades. This initiative is supported by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund, an endowment created by the Government of Canada.

“econext is excited to launch the Shift Program in partnership with the City of St. John’s,” said Laura Barron, CEO of econext. “Helping homeowners make the shift to more energy efficient homes reflects our mission to accelerate the green economy and help move our province toward net-zero. The Shift Program offers an opportunity to work directly with homeowners and with companies focused on minimizing residential environmental impact.”

The City of St. John’s sees the program as a key step in helping residents and the broader community. Councillor Tom Davis, Lead for Sustainability with the City of St. John’s, said: “This initiative helps residents make their homes more energy efficient while also supporting our community’s broader goals of reducing emissions, saving energy costs, and building a greener, more sustainable future. Building partnerships is key to this work, and we are so proud to partner with econext on this exciting new program.”

According to Katie Fraser, Manager of Program Delivery with Shift, the goal is to make decision-making less overwhelming: “It can be hard to know where to start, whether it’s insulation, windows, or a heat pump. Our team provides personalized guidance to help each household choose the upgrades that make the most sense for them.”

Program participation starts with a simple conversation. Residents can visit maketheshiftnl.ca, call 709.979.0362, or email hello@maketheshiftnl.ca to connect with a Home Energy Navigator.

To make the first step easier, the program is offering subsidized home energy audits for $99 (for a limited time), about 80% off the regular cost. Audits give homeowners a clear picture of where their energy is being used and how to reduce energy consumption. In addition, the City of St. John’s has partnered with the Newfoundland and Labrador Credit Union to offer a special low-interest loan for residents investing in efficiency upgrades.

“We encourage any homeowner in the city to reach out to our team and see what options might be available,” said Fraser. “Some residents have already completed an energy audit, and we can help them make sense of the EnerGuide report and take the next steps. For those who haven’t, we can help get you signed up. Whether it’s better insulation, draft sealing, or other upgrades, our goal is to guide homeowners toward the improvements that save money on energy and make homes more comfortable year-round. We’re excited to get started.”

The Shift Program is now available to homeowners in the City of St. John’s.

For more information, visit www.maketheshiftnl.ca.

About econext

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities. econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development. For more information, visit https://econext.ca/.

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Media Contacts

Chelsie Cake
econext
709.979.0389
cake@econext.ca

 

Jackie O’Brien
City of St. John’s
709.576.8491
jobrien@stjohns.ca

EOI – Work-Placement Hosts (Fully Funded 4-month Internship) and Connector Event

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

econext is seeking expressions of interest from companies in the clean, green, and blue sectors interested in partnering with econext to host an open house (connector event) and internships as part of the Green Roots program. The requirements are as follows:

  • Host an open house connector event in February/March 2026 or May/June 2026
  • Internship must be four months/120 days in duration and hosted between April 2026 – October 2026
  • Internships must be completed by October 31, 2026
  • Host companies must provide meaningful full-time work and experience (at least 35 hrs/week)

About the Company Connector Event

These are networking and connector events where program participants can meet and engage with potential employers in the green economy sector by visiting their office spaces. Host companies share about their products and services and engage with participants.

Expectations of Connector Event and Internship Hosts

Funding of up to $13,000 per placement will be provided to participating companies. Any costs related to intern compensation or project participation that are over and above the provided funding will be the responsibility of the host.

Participating hosts will be required to participate in a DEI micro-learning training provided by econext to prepare them to provide meaningful work and experience to the work-placement participants.

Instructions for Submission

Interested companies should indicate their interest by emailing Ogaga Johnson, Director of Workforce Development for econext, at ogaga@econext.ca.

  • The submission should include:
  • A short summary (200 words or less) of your organization and its connection to or activity in the clean/green/blue sectors;
  • A short summary (200 words or less) of the type of work experience you can provide to the participating interns; and
  • The name, position, and complete contact information for your organization’s point of contact.

Any questions regarding this initiative or the submission process can be forwarded by e-mail to ogaga@econext.ca.

Deadlines

The deadline for submitting questions for the expression of interest is Friday, January 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM.

The deadline for submitting an expression of interest is Friday, January 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
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Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Energy Mapping & CEEPD Workshop – Marystown

Posted on by Chelsie Cake


October 14 – 15, 2025, Marystown City Hall

This October, Marystown will host a two-day, in-person workshop series as part of the Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Project in partnership with QUEST Canada. The sessions are designed to bring together municipal staff, local stakeholders, and community organizations to support the community’s transition toward a more sustainable, climate-resilient future.

Workshop Sessions

On Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the Energy Mapping Workshop will focus on building a clear picture of Marystown’s current energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Participants will learn where energy is being consumed, identify the sources of emissions, and establish a shared baseline to guide future planning.

On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Community Energy and Emissions Plan (CEEP) Development Workshop will shift from mapping to planning. This collaborative session will highlight opportunities to reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and consider local strategies that align with clean growth and net-zero targets.

Why attend

• Contribute to shaping Marystown’s Community Energy and Emissions Plan
• Help identify practical opportunities for energy savings and emissions reduction
• Be part of a community-wide effort to support clean growth and resilience

Registration

For more information or to confirm your participation, please contact Sara Jafari at sara@econext.ca.

This initiative is delivered through the Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Project in partnership with QUEST Canada.

Job Opportunity: Workforce Events Lead

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Location: St. John’s, NL
Type: Full Time, 1-Year Contract with possibility of extension
Salary Range: $55,000 – $62,000

Background

econext is a not-for-profit association that accelerates clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador, working on behalf of over 200 members to foster environmentally sustainable economic development.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a province with immense clean growth potential. Its vast untapped clean energy resources provide for substantial renewable energy, hydrogen, and clean fuels opportunities. It is an innovator in creating value from waste streams, and is home to a world-leading cluster of environmental technology developers. Its current strengths in its natural resource sectors, from offshore oil and gas to mining, are helping to pave the way for the energy transition.

econext is looking for a Workforce Events Lead to join its team at 235 Water Street in St. John’s, NL.

Job Description

The Workforce Events Lead position is a unique opportunity for the right candidate to support clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador and play a key role in helping to shape its future green economy. This position will be a critical operational support for the effective execution of econext initiatives relating to workforce development and innovation in both clean energy and ocean technology.

The Workforce Events Lead will:

▪ Plan and coordinate workforce and career development events, such as connector events, Ideathons, industry panels, training sessions, industry forums, networking sessions, career fairs,and community outreach activities
▪ Collaborate with stakeholders, including employers, educational institutions, and community organizations, to ensure event success.
▪ Manage event logistics, including scheduling, venue arrangements, and stakeholder communications.
▪ Lead end-to-end planning, coordination, and logistics for all workforce events, including scheduling, venue booking, catering, registrations, and onsite coordination.
▪  Manage event timelines, budgets, materials, vendors, and volunteer/staff assignments.
▪  Coordinate with partners, speakers, and exhibitors to ensure seamless event experiences.
▪  Develop and execute promotional plans for events, including drafting copy for invitations, social media, and other outreach.
▪  Maintain post-event follow-up processes, including reporting, participant feedback, and data entry.
▪  Support the coordination of workforce-related projects that connect with events.
▪  Maintain and update the econav website with event information, photos, and related content.

For this role, econext is looking for an individual with a vibrant and outgoing personality and a willingness to be proactive and self-directed in their work.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have experience in event planning and coordination, and a diverse range of skills and proficiencies that can be applied to different aspects of the projects and initiatives which they will be involved in.

The individual must be an effective communicator to establish, maintain, and foster new relationships. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and has the capacity to think creatively to address challenges and pursue opportunities as they arise.

▪ A university degree or college diploma
▪ 3 – 5 years of experience in event planning and coordination, ideally in workforce development, community engagement, or a related field
▪ Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
▪ Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and facilitation skills
▪ Excellent project management and event coordination abilities
▪ Strong interpersonal communications skills to work with diverse stakeholders.
▪ Proficiency in event management tools, including virtual events platforms
▪ Relationship and network-building skills
▪ Ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously.
▪ The ability to thrive both as a member of a team and independently

A background in environment, green economy, workforce development, and/or innovation is not a requirement, but experiences relating to these areas could be viewed as an asset.

Apply

econext offers a competitive benefits package and its staff work from a modern co-working environment in Downtown St. John’s. To apply, please send a resumé or CV with a cover letter (in one document) to hiring@econext.ca with the subject line “Application – Workforce Events Lead.” The deadline for submitting an application is 3:00 PM on on September 5, 2025.

econext is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals, and in which personnel processes are merit-based and applied without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, gender identity, marital status, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, or other protected characteristics.

Closing one chapter, opening another: The Green Roots Career Series

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Aug 22, 2025 – On August 20, econext joined with its member organizations to mark the conclusion of the Green Roots Career Series Project. Launched with the support of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the project set out to connect newcomers and foreign-trained professionals with opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing green economy. Its wrap-up was both a celebration and a reflection on the impacts achieved.

An Overview of the Green Roots Career Series

A collection of images from Green Roots events.

Over its duration, Green Roots engaged 104 participants through a mix of workshops, open houses, and internships. Key highlights included:

• Four workshops focused on personal branding, professional networking, and interview skills.
• Five open houses hosted by Angler Solutions, NL Hydro, Edgewise Environmental, SEM Ltd., and the City of Corner Brook, giving participants first-hand exposure to workplaces in industry.
• Six internship placements offering hands-on experience in fields such as marketing, logistics, event coordination, climate consulting, and machine learning.

Collaboration at the Core

The program’s success was made possible by industry partners, whose mentorship and leadership created opportunities for learning. Special acknowledgement goes to Edgewise Environmental, Global Maritime, City of Corner Brook, Fundamental Inc., Angler Solutions, SEM Ltd. and NL Hydro. econext CEO Laura Barron presented each of these organizations with a certificate of appreciation for their contributions.

econext CEO Laura Barron presents Angler Solutions (Chad Fowlow), with a Certificate of Appreciation.

Ogaga Johnson, econext’s Director of Workforce Development, reflected on the project’s outcomes:

“Green Roots delivered real, measurable impact. In its inaugural edition, we engaged 104 newcomers through four targeted workshops, five connector open houses, and six paid internships with six industry partners. Industry partners called the initiative highly impactful, and many participants said it was their first authentic Canadian workplace experience, leaving them with practical skills, industry connections, paid placements, and lessons that have positively shaped their careers, ready to contribute fully to Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy.”

The impact was also felt for participants. As Fatiha Mohammed, a Social Media Marketing intern with Edgewise Environmental, shared:

“Now that I have worked here I have gained a lot of knowledge. I am eager to find out what my future holds and of course, I do envision myself working in the green economy and finding a way to contribute back towards the community and earth.”

Discussing the Way Forward 

Green Roots Panelists from left to right: Ogaga Johnson, Anskey Miranda, Chad Fowlow, Kristen Ladouceur, and Fatiha Mohammed. Not pictured, virtual panelist Ashley Noseworthy.

At the August 20 wrap-up, a panel brought together voices from across the program to discuss its impacts and the future of the green economy. Featuring Ashley Noseworthy (Edgewise Environmental), Kristen Ladouceur (NL Hydro), Anskey Miranda (Global Maritime), Chad Fowlow (Angler Solutions), and Fatiha Mohammed (Green Roots Participant), and moderated by Ogaga Johnson (econext), the conversation explored both the workforce challenges and opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainable industries. Panelists emphasized the value of initiatives like Green Roots in preparing individuals to contribute their skills while addressing industry needs in a mutually beneficial fashion.

Foreign Credential Recognition Research

This project also included workforce research on foreign credential recognition for forecasted in-demand clean energy careers. This research aimed to understand the process internationally trained professionals undertake to get their credentials recognized and begin to work in Newfoundland and Labrador as well as identify any barriers and gaps they may face during the process.

econext will be releasing the outcomes of this research very soon, helping to inform policy, guide employers, and open more doors for internationally trained professionals who want to contribute their expertise to Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainable industries.

Looking Ahead: Green Roots 2.0

While August 20 marked the official close of this chapter, the momentum is only building. econext is excited to announce that Green Roots 2.0 will launch this fall, continuing to create pathways for newcomers and internationally trained professionals to thrive in the green economy in the province.

As we move into the next edition, the roots planted in this first edition will continue to grow into lasting contributions to Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainable future.

About econext

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities. econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development. For more information, visit econext.ca.

 

econext ideathon | September 19-21, 2025 | MUN St. John’s Campus

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

This event took place September 19-21, 2025. Click here to read the news release which summarizes the event and highlights the winning teams!

econext Ideathon

Embrace the Future of Clean Growth! econext is thrilled to announce it’s next ideathon, paving the way for innovative solutions that will drive sustainable progress in Newfoundland and Labrador. This time, we are bringing the ideathon back to the MUN St. John’s Campus! The weekend-long event, open to all MUN students, will be taking place in-person September 19-21, 2025.

Challenge: Design a solution, system, or approach that helps individuals, communities, or companies offset/reduce their carbon footprint in a meaningful way.

Click here for the opening ceremonies slideshow.

Click here for the prompt presentation.

Click here for the judging rubric. 

View the mentor schedule.

What is an ideathon?

Ideathons are competitive events in which students work together in teams over a short timeframe to come up with solutions to a set challenge. Our ideathons are a space to develop innovative solutions for clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The specific challenge, relating to clean growth, will be released at the beginning of the weekend where we will provide you with all the necessary information needed to participate.

Teams will consist of 3-5 students.

Learn more about our previous ideathons here: September 2023 | March 2024

Who can participate?

This is a multi-disciplinary event and we welcome any student from Memorial University to participate. If you are interested in clean growth, we encourage you to join us! Please note that this event takes place at St. John’s campus, and transportation and accommodations will NOT be provided.

When and where?

The ideathon will take place at the Core Science Facility at Memorial University’s St. John’s Campus over a 48-hour period from September 19-21, 2025. A schedule is available below.

We encourage students to stay on campus while working to take part in workshops and activities and to benefit from mentors.

Why should you participate?

  • We will be awarding cash prizes to the top three teams
  • Network with people in the industry as well as your peers
  • Workshop opportunities
  • Learn about the clean growth industry
  • Team building
  • You will be provided with free meals and snacks
  • Group activities
  • Have some fun!

How to register?

Registration is individual, but you will be required to work on teams of 3-5 students. Submission of teams will take place on the evening of Friday September 19. If you have already established a team, you will be required to submit your teams then. If you haven’t already established a team, there will be opportunity throughout the evening to network to form teams. We will assist in matching individuals to teams as needed.

Registration for this event is now closed. If you are interested in competing, please reach out to Timilehin Oguntuyaki at timilehin@econext.ca.

What is the schedule?

Our ideathon is a weekend-long event, beginning on Friday, September 19 at 5pm and ending on Sunday, September 21 at 5pm.

(Schedule is subject to potential changes)

Our Partners

OPENING CEREMONIES

3RD PLACE PRIZE

Have questions?

Reach out to Timilehin Oguntuyaki at timilehin@econext.ca.

Green Roots Wrap Up: Exploring Your Career in Newfoundland and Labrador’s Green Economy

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM NDT
Location: Holiday Inn, 180 Portugal Cove Road, St. John’s, NL

Register on Eventbrite

About the Event

Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy is growing, and with it, new career pathways are opening up.

Join us for a special event marking the conclusion of the Green Roots Project, a program created to support newcomers and internationally trained professionals who are exploring or transitioning into careers in the green sector.

This event offers a chance to reflect on the project’s impact, build connections, and learn more about what’s ahead in this fast-evolving field.

What You Can Expect

• A look back at the Green Roots program and its accomplishments
• Opportunities to network with peers, employers, and program staff
• Insights into current and upcoming opportunities in the green workforce
• A preview of future initiatives supporting success in the sector
• Light refreshments

Whether you participated in the program or are simply interested in opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainable economy, we invite you to join us!

This program was supported by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

CEO Message – August 6, 2025

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Dear econext community,

During my first few days serving as your CEO, I’d like to thank the econext board and team for placing your trust in me to carry the baton from Kieran’s accomplished hands.

To our members: Thank you for your work, every day, minimizing environmental impact, maximizing economic prosperity, and developing our green economy. Newfoundland and Labrador has the natural resources, the skilled workers, and the political will to make great things happen here. econext is here to support you in your important work.

We’re seeing a sharper focus at the provincial and national levels on climate action, advancing Indigenous peoples, and progressing environmentally sustainable economic development. This presents a unique opportunity for econext to carve out a niche and deliver meaningful value to our members and stakeholders like never before

Over the coming weeks and months, I will be focused on gathering your input for a new strategic plan which will help us differentiate our organization, create value for members and partners, and help us achieve organizational sustainability into the future. I very much look forward to your input.

Thank you,

Laura

Powering Inclusion: Building Inclusive Hiring and Equitable Workplaces in the Green Economy

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

About the Event

Date & Time: Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM
Cost: Free
Location: Online Webinar (Zoom)

Powering Inclusion is a free, interactive webinar brought to you by econext and designed to empower professionals in Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy to foster inclusive, equitable workplaces. Through this session, you’ll gain practical tools to help integrate DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) principles into every stage of the employee lifecycle, from recruitment to retention.

Click Here to Register

Objective

By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to:
• Explore practical ways to support inclusive and respectful workplaces in the green economy.
• Apply DEI principles in recruitment, hiring, retention, and employee engagement.
• Recognize existing equity gaps in their current professional contexts.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will leave the session able to:
1. Define DEI concepts specific to Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy.
2. Apply allyship strategies aligned with sustainability and equity goals.
3. Hire with intention by creating inclusive pathways to employment.
4. Lead inclusively to improve recruitment, retention, and workplace engagement.

Registration

Spots are limited to help participants gain meaningful engagement from this session. Register now!

This program was made possible through support provided by the Government of Newfoundland & Labrador.