| ECO Canada, which calls itself the steward of the Canadian environmental workforce, has launched a new initiative, Ocean Alliance Canada (OAC), that brings together partners from coast to coast to to advance workforce development, support Indigenous Leadership, and foster cross-sector policy alignment. Led by ECO Canada as Chair and Secretariat, the Alliance brings together organizations from Indigenous leaders and coastal communities to educators, NGOs, industry, and government partners to build a more inclusive, connected, and future-ready ocean sector. “We often hear that the future of Canada’s blue economy depends on innovation,” says Kevin Nilsen, President & CEO of ECO Canada. “But innovation needs a foundation, like strong people systems, strategic partnerships, and policy coordination. That’s where Ocean Alliance Canada steps in.” The organization’s mission is to connect and convene national partners, share knowledge, and align strategies to meet pressing labor market needs, bridge policy and practice gaps, and amplify the voices of underrepresented communities. The organization’s key focus areas include workforce development & labor mobility through advancing national credentialing, career pathways, and skills recognition; supporting Indigenous-led priorities and knowledge in ocean governance; aligning efforts across sectors and levels of government with global goals; and strengthening Canada‘s position through inclusive innovation and investment readiness. Organizational Members receive governance voting rights, strategic visibility, access to working groups, and early invitations to funding and innovation opportunities. Individual Members can access professional development tools, mentorship, forums, and exclusive networking opportunities to grow their careers and contribute meaningfully to the sector.  |
ECO Canada Launches Ocean Alliance to Improve Collaboration, Workforce Development for Canada’s Blue Economy
