Lunchtime Seminar features Hem Dholakia, Senior Research Associate at the Smart Prosperity Institute.
Title: A skills-ecosystem approach to Canada's net-zero transition
Abstract: Our research identified the skills and jobs needed for three clean-growth opportunities: plant-based protein agriculture and manufacturing in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, zero-emissions vehicles manufacturing in Ontario and mass timber construction in British Columbia. We conducted stakeholder interviews, five workshops and surveyed key representatives of these sectors.
Across the sectors we studied, we found common challenges and opportunities for the members of the skills ecosystem: businesses, workers, industry groups, educational institutions, policymakers and not-for-profit organizations. Regardless of the sector, any green transition will change the nature of the skills and jobs needed to undertake it.
Bio: Dr Hem Dholakia is a Senior Research Associate at the Smart Prosperity Institute, where he supports the work of the Clean and Resilient Growth team. Before joining SPI, he brings eleven years of international experience managing climate risks for infrastructure, mitigating air pollution and strengthening public health. Providing strategic advice to senior government officials and multilateral organizations has been integral to his experience. Hem is passionate about communicating science to different audiences and has contributed to several knowledge products, workshops, webinars and conferences.
A recipient of the International Visitor Leadership Programme Award (US Department of State), he was nominated to the UNFCCC Expert Roster by the Government of India in 2021. He holds a doctorate in Public Policy from the Indian Institute of Management (Ahmedabad), and a Master's in Exercise Science from the University of Brighton (UK).