What kinds of career opportunities can a major new infrastructure project offer for young people planning their future? To find out, about 100 high school students from Ignace, Dryden and Pickle Lake in northwestern Ontario took part in a three-day Nuclear Youth Symposium held in Ignace, Ont. There, they learned firsthand about the types of jobs that will be needed in their region as the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) moves forward with implementing a deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel.

Participating in events like this is one of the many ways the NWMO engages with youth about the work we’re doing to safely manage Canada’s intermediate- and high-level radioactive waste for generations to come.

“The NWMO regularly participates in events like the Nuclear Youth Symposium throughout the year that help youth learn more about our work and future job and education opportunities,” said Vince Ponka, Manager of Indigenous and Regional Communications at the NWMO. “As the Centre of Expertise and then the deep geological repository take shape in the northwest, engaging with youth is one of the ways we’re preparing for the future.”

Since 2010, the NWMO’s youth outreach and engagement activities have focused on offering learning and career development opportunities for youth. We have supported classroom learning programs such as Scientists in School, Shad and Science North, youth programs such as the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund’s Legacy Schools Program to advance Reconciliation, and post-secondary scholarships and research opportunities. The NWMO has also regularly supported local youth-focused events and initiatives tied to learning about our work, wellness and sports.

“The youth of today are Canada’s future science leaders. We’re proud to support educational programs related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics learning and help young people explore their educational and career paths,” Mr. Ponka said.

Learn more about youth engagement on the NWMO website.