Invest WindsorEssex/Media Release
WINDSOR-ESSEX, ONT. (Nov. 13, 2025) – Invest WindsorEssex (IWE), together with partners from NextStar Energy, Upskill Canada powered by Palette Skills and the Government of Canada are proud to celebrate the success of Battery Boost Technical Training Program for battery manufacturing careers, an innovative workforce development program that has surpassed all expectations in preparing local workers for in-demand careers in Canada’s growing battery manufacturing supply chain.
Launched in early 2025 with over $3.8 million in funding from Upskill Canada, powered by Palette Skills and the Government of Canada, Battery Boost set out to train and place 400 participants by March 2026. Less than a year later, the program has exceeded that goal, training 408 participants and successfully placing 397 graduates into full-time positions, achieving an impressive 97 per cent placement rate.
Graduates of the program are now earning, on average, $13,900 more annually than before entering training. Perhaps most remarkable, 99 per cent of participants had no prior experience in battery manufacturing or technician work, underscoring the program’s impact in creating new, accessible pathways into advanced manufacturing careers.
Through the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and advanced simulation at the Automobility and Innovation Centre (AIC), participants gain practical, hands-on experience before entering live production environments. The curriculum was developed in collaboration with the program delivery partner, NextStar Energy, which provided proprietary industry insights essential to the training process. VR partner Virtualware continues to enhance the immersive learning experience through its enterprise XR platform, VIROO, used in the AIC’s custom-built VR lab.
The program’s participants reflect the diversity and talent of the Windsor-Essex region, representing Windsor and municipalities across Essex County. Participants range in age, education and experience with roughly one-third being university graduates, one-third college-trained and one-third from apprenticeship or high school backgrounds. Overall, this demonstrates the inclusive and community-focused nature of the program.
Battery Boost’s success also complements NextStar Energy’s recent announcement to expand its Energy Storage System (ESS) operations in Windsor-Essex, further strengthening the region’s position in the battery supply chain. By equipping local workers with in-demand skills, the program ensures that Windsor-Essex is ready to capitalize on new investment, innovation and job opportunities associated with ESS growth.
Today’s media event and open house brought together program partners, government leaders, employers and graduates to celebrate this achievement and showcase the immersive VR training technology that has made it possible. The event featured remarks from Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, Essex County Deputy Warden Joe Bachetti and Danies Lee, CEO of NextStar Energy followed by program participant testimonials and guided demonstrations of the AIC’s VR lab with the Battery Boost team.
Quotes
“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. 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.” – Gordon Orr, CEO, Invest WindsorEssex
“Battery Boost has been a game-changer for NextStar Energy’s rapidly growing workforce. 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.” – Danies Lee, CEO, NextStar Energy
“The partnerships we have seen in the community of Windsor-Essex to not only develop this program but move workers through training directly into jobs is outstanding, and the results speak for themselves. Programs like Battery Boost which focus on getting workers into good-paying jobs are what Ontario’s automotive sector needs to compete and win.” – Mark Beckles, CEO, Palette Skills Inc.
ABOUT INVEST WINDSORESSEX
Invest WindsorEssex is the lead economic development organization for the Windsor-Essex region. The organization’s mission is to retain, expand, attract and help new businesses start up in Windsor-Essex by developing and executing strategies that strengthen regional competitiveness. investwindsoressex.com
ABOUT UPSKILL CANADA
Upskill Canada is a national talent platform that helps fast-growing companies access the talent they need to compete and succeed globally while creating new career pathways for workers to transition into high-demand roles. It supports employers across key growth sectors, including advanced manufacturing, clean technology and biomanufacturing. paletteskills.org
Media Contacts
Gina Meret-Dybenko
Director, Marketing and Communications
Invest WindsorEssex
Mobile: 519-791-6223
Email: [email protected]
Daniela Ferro
Manager, Public Relations
NextStar Energy
Mobile: 519-984-1215
Email: [email protected]
Chloé Roussel
Vice President, Public Affairs
Palette Skills
Email: [email protected]