Battery Boost program’s impact on Windsor

The Battery Boost program is having a big impact on Windsor, looking to train more workers in the growing sector. CTV Windsor’s Bob Bellacicco explains.

The Battery Boost program is surpassing national training and employment targets nationally and is having a big impact on Windsor.

Invest WindsorEssex, Nextstar Energy, and Upskill Canada joined together on Thursday, celebrating the successes.

The program launched earlier this year with more than $3.8 million in funding. The goal was to train 400 people by March of 2026.

Now, the program has trained 408 participants and gave 397 of its graduates full-time jobs. Those graduates are reportedly making just shy of $14,000 more than they did before the training.

“Battery Boost has been a game-changer for NextStar Energy’s rapidly growing workforce,” said Danies Lee, CEO of NextStar Energy.

“As Canada’s first large-scale battery manufacturing plant, we’re not just building batteries, we’re pioneering the Canadian industry. Through highly specialized training, Battery Boost has empowered employees to become leaders, grow in their careers, and continue driving progress at NextStar Energy.”

Training uses virtual reality to give hands-on experience before they go into live production spaces. The program was built alongside NextStar, giving insights needed for the training process.

“Battery Boost has not only met, but exceeded its goals and stands as a national model for collaboration, demonstrating how public investment and private-sector leadership can work hand-in-hand to strengthen Canada’s advanced manufacturing workforce, diversify participation, and drive regional prosperity,” said Gordon Orr, CEO of Invest WindsorEssex.

“The achievements of this program show what’s possible when government, industry, and training partners work together to create real opportunity for our residents. I am proud of the IWE team for leading this regional initiative and congratulations to all involved for making this a success.”

All participants in Battery Boost ranged in age, education, and experience.