Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence Sponsor-a-Student Opportunity

J.D. Irving, Limited; Halifax; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading shipbuilding company in Halifax is offering financial support for students to participate in a 5-week work placement as part of their studies. Eligible candidates are full-time or part-time students in their final year from equity-deserving groups. The opportunity includes career development and tuition aid amounting to $4,000. Application deadline is January 2, 2026.

Benefits

Tuition support up to $4,000

Hands-on work experience

Networking with industry leaders

Qualifications

• Open to full-time and part-time students self-identifying as part of an equity-deserving group.
• Currently enrolled in final year of eligible NSCC programs.

Responsibilities

• Responsibilities will vary depending on school program and interests.
• Must complete a 5-week work term at one of the locations.

Skills

Demonstrated commitment and interest

Good academic standing

Positive attitude

Teamwork abilities

Punctuality and accountability

Job description

The Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence (CoE) at NSCC is proud to sponsor 11 students from historically underrepresented communities, reinforcing our commitment to supporting NSCC learners and fostering a diverse, inclusive workforce.

This award provides financial support for students continuing their studies in one of the programs listed below and includes an exciting 5‑week work placement—a hands‑on opportunity to gain real‑world experience as part of your program requirements.

About Irving Shipbuilding

Irving Shipbuilding is Canada’s National Shipbuilder, entrusted with building the next generation of combat vessels for the Royal Canadian Navy under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.

• 6 Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) have already been delivered.
• Construction is underway on two custom AOPS for the Canadian Coast Guard, followed by the larger River‑class destroyers.
• Over $12 billion in spending commitments through 2026, supporting 678 organizations across Canada.
• A team of 2,400 shipbuilders based in Halifax, NS—including the largest group of apprentices in Atlantic Canada.

About the Centre of Excellence

The Irving Shipbuilding Centre of Excellence at NSCC was created to develop the skills needed for careers in the shipbuilding and marine sectors. Through initiatives like Pathways to Shipbuilding, Techsploration, student bursaries, and other programs, we strive to provide equitable access to opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Ready to launch your career and make an impact? This is your chance to gain valuable experience, connect with industry leaders, and help shape the future of Canada’s shipbuilding industry.

Qualifications

This opportunity is open to full‑time and part‑time students who have self‑identified as being a part of an equity‑deserving group currently enrolled in their final year of studies in eligible NSCC programs at Akerley, IT, Ivany, or eCampus (HRM residents only) campuses.

Eligible Programs

• Business Administration
• Electrical Engineering Technology
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Occupational Health and Safety

Application Assessment Criteria

• Demonstrated commitment and interest in your program and a future career with Irving Shipbuilding.
• Good academic standing.
• Brings a positive attitude and willingness to learn each day.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Punctuality, accountability and consistency in all work tasks.
• Candidate must self‑identify as being a part of an equity‑deserving group.
• Due to the nature of work Irving Shipbuilding does, all successful applicants must meet requirements for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP), Canadian Government Security clearance, and U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
• Please note this opportunity requires a full‑time, in‑office presence at one of our four work locations.
• For roles based in a safety sensitive area, a standard drug and medical test must be completed.

Award Details

• Total Value: $4,000 in tuition support
• 50% ($2,000) issued upon selection to NSCC to cover first tuition payment.
• Remaining 50% ($2,000) issued upon successful completion of a 5‑week work term to NSCC to cover remaining balance.

We thank all those that apply, however only those moving forward will be contacted.

Posting Deadline: January 2, 2026

Responsibilities

• The responsibilities of each available role will vary across departments depending on school program and interests of the applicant.
• Some areas of the business you could work in during your term include Test & Trials, Finance, Combat Systems, Field Services, Health and Safety, and Facilities.
• Recipients must complete a 5‑week work term.
• The terms and compensation for this work experience will be coordinated between Irving Shipbuilding and the recipient.