Davie and CSSDN Launch New Shipbuilding Training Program to Build Québec’s Future Workforce!

Davie, headquartered in Lévis, Québec, has partnered with Centre de services scolaire des Navigateurs (CSSDN) to launch a new Attestation of Vocational Studies (AVS) in shipbuilding, aimed at developing the next generation of skilled professionals for Canada’s maritime industry. The initiative comes at a critical time, as Davie embarks on the largest work plan in its history and faces growing demand for qualified talent across shipbuilding, refurbishment, and repair activities.

The 600-hour vocational program is scheduled to begin in February 2026 at the CSSDN campus in Lévis and will admit two cohorts of students. Designed to deliver job-ready skills aligned with real-world shipyard requirements, the program will prepare participants for hands-on roles in modern shipbuilding environments. By combining practical training with industry-specific knowledge, the AVS program seeks to shorten the gap between education and employment while directly responding to labour shortages in the sector.

The program is backed by an investment of more than $1.2 million from Davie, approved by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. This funding reflects Davie’s long-term commitment to workforce development and its recognition that sustained growth in shipbuilding depends on building strong local talent pipelines. Rather than relying solely on external hiring, the company is investing in structured training that creates stable, high-quality employment opportunities within the Lévis and greater Québec City region.

Davie President Lindsey Kettel described the initiative as a promise to the region, emphasizing its role in promoting local expertise, creating long-term careers, and fostering pride in Québec’s maritime capabilities. According to Kettel, the program provides a clear and accessible pathway into shipbuilding careers, ensuring that new entrants are trained to meet Davie’s standards of quality, safety, and operational excellence. The investment is also positioned as a tangible contribution to the regional economy, reinforcing shipbuilding as a cornerstone of industrial activity in Québec.

From the education sector’s perspective, CSSDN views the partnership as a strong example of how vocational training can adapt to economic realities and support strategic industries. Suzie Lucas, Director General of CSSDN, highlighted that the AVS in shipbuilding directly aligns education with labour market needs, creating concrete opportunities for students while strengthening the regional workforce. The collaboration demonstrates how Québec’s education network can work closely with industry to deliver targeted, relevant programs that lead to meaningful employment.

Beyond immediate hiring needs, the program supports broader industrial and economic objectives. As Canada expands its naval, commercial, and icebreaking fleets, the availability of skilled shipbuilders will be essential to meeting timelines, quality expectations, and national industrial goals. By training workers locally, Davie and CSSDN are helping ensure that expertise remains rooted in Québec, supporting long-term competitiveness and resilience in the shipbuilding sector.

The launch of the AVS in shipbuilding marks an important step in aligning education, industry, and government support around a shared objective: building a skilled, committed workforce capable of sustaining Québec’s shipbuilding industry for decades to come. Through this initiative, Davie and CSSDN are not only addressing immediate labour demand but also laying the foundation for a new generation of professionals who will contribute to the vitality, pride, and economic strength of the Lévis region and beyond.