PwC Canada and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have teamed up to launch an exciting new initiative aimed at developing the next generation of cloud engineering professionals in Canada. The “Jump Start Your Career” program is designed to provide comprehensive training and certification opportunities for 125 final-year university students, equipping them with the tools they need to excel in the rapidly growing field of cloud technology.
Announced during the AWS Summit 2024 in Toronto, this initiative aims to fill a crucial gap in the Canadian technology sector. A recent PwC study, the 2024 Hopes and Fears Survey, highlighted the urgent need for companies to invest in skills development, especially in cutting-edge areas such as generative AI. PwC’s collaboration with AWS is a strategic response to this call, offering a pathway for students to gain industry-relevant skills and prepare for careers in cloud engineering.
“At PwC Canada, we’re committed to investing in the future of Canadian talent and empowering them with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape,” said Michelle Bourgeois, National Alliance and Consulting Technology Leader at PwC Canada. “Through the ‘Jump Start Your Career’ program, we’re not only providing students with industry-recognized certifications, but also offering them invaluable mentorship opportunities and potential career pathways within PwC’s growing Cloud Engineering practice. This program is designed to provide up-and-coming talent with the resources and support they need to build successful careers in the thriving cloud computing industry.”
PwC Canada has committed $500,000 to this initiative, which will benefit students from seven of Canada’s leading universities. The program is open to those studying in fields like engineering, computer science, mathematics, and analytics at institutions including the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia.
Participants in the program will receive full funding to complete two AWS certification exams, allowing them to gain recognized industry credentials. In addition to the certifications, students will be paired with experienced PwC professionals who will provide mentorship and guidance, helping them navigate the practical applications of cloud technologies. The top four participants will be offered roles within PwC’s Cloud Engineering team, marking the start of their careers at one of Canada’s most respected firms.
The program will also host a series of launch events across major Canadian cities like Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, and Toronto. These events will offer networking opportunities, connecting students with industry experts from PwC, allowing for valuable exchanges of knowledge and career advice.
Applications for the “Jump Start Your Career” program are now open and will be accepted until September 30, 2024. Students interested in taking advantage of this career-boosting opportunity can apply through the official program website.
Globally, PwC has a strong presence in cloud engineering, with over 5,200 professionals certified by AWS. This collaboration with AWS is another step in PwC’s ongoing commitment to fostering talent and staying at the forefront of technological advancements. By creating opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials, PwC and AWS are playing a key role in shaping the future of the Canadian technology landscape.
