{"id":50778,"date":"2024-09-03T08:30:38","date_gmt":"2024-09-03T07:30:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.innovationnewsnetwork.com\/?p=50778"},"modified":"2024-09-13T13:55:44","modified_gmt":"2024-09-13T12:55:44","slug":"cna-leading-the-charge-in-sustainable-development-through-education","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.innovationnewsnetwork.com\/cna-leading-the-charge-in-sustainable-development-through-education\/50778\/","title":{"rendered":"CNA: Leading the charge in sustainable development through education"},"content":{"rendered":"
College of the North Atlantic<\/a> is at the forefront of sustainable development in Newfoundland and Labrador, leading the charge with cutting-edge green technologies and a new School for Sustainable Development. This bold initiative spans CNA\u2019s 17 campuses, reinforcing its commitment to the green transition.<\/p>\n To delve deeper, The Innovation Platform spoke with Dr Gary Thompson, Dean of the School of Sustainable Development, and Dr Michael Long, Dean of Applied Research and Innovation.<\/p>\n Dr Thompson: CNA\u2019s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan is laser-focused on equity, diversity, inclusion, innovative teaching, and sustainable growth. We\u2019re embedding sustainability into everything we do \u2013 from operations to curriculum \u2013 aligning with the UN\u2019s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This isn\u2019t just about going green; it\u2019s about equipping our students with the skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving, eco-conscious economy.<\/p>\n Opportunities abound in Newfoundland and Labrador, from wind energy to green construction. CNA is positioning itself as a leader in these sectors, offering a curriculum that prepares students for the booming green energy workforce.<\/p>\n As green energy technologies develop, there is a strong demand for skilled workers who possess the knowledge and expertise required in the sector. CNA is poised to develop expertise in this sector to support local employment opportunities for the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. Sustainability will further diversify CNA\u2019s curriculum, educational programming, and operations in the coming years.<\/p>\n Dr Thompson: The School of Sustainable Development is already in full swing, launching programmes that tackle climate change and green building. We\u2019re partnering with industry and government to address Atlantic Canada\u2019s green labour needs. Here\u2019s how we\u2019re making an impact:<\/p>\n This approach ensures CNA graduates are not just knowledgeable but passionate about driving positive environmental change. Our sustainable operations are setting a new standard for institutions everywhere.<\/p>\n Dr Thompson: In 2023, we launched two key programmes: A one-year Wind Turbine Technician certificate and a two-year Hydrogen Technician diploma \u2013the first of its kind in Canada. These programmes are designed to meet the demands of the renewable energy sector, providing hands-on experience and critical theoretical knowledge. Our first Wind Turbine Technician cohort graduated in June 2024, and they\u2019re already in high demand. We\u2019re also gearing up to launch a new solar programme in 2025, further solidifying our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.<\/p>\n Dr Long: At OARI, technology is one tool in the matrix of sustainability. We\u2019re using advanced technologies like LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and 3D modelling to give businesses and communities detailed, accurate representations of their environments and operations. This helps them to do things better, lighter, cheaper, faster or smarter.<\/p>\n Dr Long: Collaboration is at the core of our work. We don\u2019t start research without a partner who has a specific challenge, problem, or bottleneck that needs addressing. This means constant outreach and site visits to understand their needs. We also love showing potential partners our labs and projects to demonstrate how we can make a real impact together.<\/p>\n Dr Long: Applied research is a complex undertaking requiring many systems. Most people think about technology or labs when they think about research, but the truth is your team is the core. That team is comprised of researchers, technologists, technicians, interns, students, faculty, and administrative personnel \u2013 the full gamut.<\/p>\n CNA and its 17 campuses are also key. Having such proximity to rural businesses and communities is incredibly important to support innovation services.<\/p>\nWhat\u2019s driving CNA\u2019s Strategic Plan for Sustainable Development and Growth?<\/h3>\n
Can you tell us about the new School of Sustainable Development?<\/h3>\n
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What new programmes does the School of Sustainable Development offer?<\/h3>\n
This plan is not the first example of CNA\u2019s commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technologies. How is the Office of Applied Research and Innovation (OARI) advancing sustainability?<\/h3>\n
How does collaboration fuel innovation at CNA?<\/h3>\n
How is CNA equipped to facilitate cutting-edge research?<\/h3>\n
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What is the Reality Capture and Digitisation Access Centre (RCD TAC)?<\/h3>\n