Program Overview

Energy Fundamentals for Leaders Certificate Program

The Energy Fundamentals for Leaders Certificate Program is designed to provide professionals, leaders, and managers with a comprehensive understanding of the energy sector and its complexities. The program is facilitated by the Atlantica Centre for Energy and aims to foster sustainable growth related to energy opportunities in Atlantic Canada.

Program Overview

The program combines in-class instruction with interactive exercises, expert panels, and applied case studies, offering exposure to all major forms of energy and energy production through site visits and hands-on learning experiences. The program consists of 6 modules, each scheduled for 2.5 days, and runs from October to May.

Program Objectives

The program objectives include:

• Gain an extensive energy vocabulary that supports deeper understanding of the sector, and more informed decision-making
• Improve understanding of the socio-economic, political, policy, and environmental impacts of energy
• Be exposed to a comprehensive portfolio of energy assets, technologies, and expert resources in Atlantic Canada
• Provide the opportunity to be part of a broad network of energy professionals, subject-matter experts, and thought leaders
• Gain global viewpoints on regional energy issues, opportunities, and challenges
• Appreciate First Nations perspectives while learning about Indigenous Peoples and the Canadian Constitution, Indigenous Treaty Rights and Aboriginal issues in a safe space with open dialogue and interactive exercises
• Test and solidify understanding of the material through participation in experiential and scenario-based activities

Program Modules

The program consists of the following modules:

• Energy Fundamentals: Becoming literate in an energy complex world
• Energy Economics: Energy markets, economic impacts, and the global energy environment
• Energy Policy: The legislation and regulation guiding our energy future
• The Energy Consumer: Understanding what drives energy use, communications tools and social engagement processes
• The Evolving Energy Landscape: Innovative Energy Technologies & Alternate Resources
• Energy at Work: Putting it all together (case study)

Module Descriptions

Energy Fundamentals: Becoming literate in an energy complex world

This module introduces concepts and terminologies fundamental to understanding complex energy issues and working within energy and energy-related sectors. It provides a global context and an advanced energy vocabulary to support enhanced professional decision-making and strategy development.

Energy Economics: Energy markets, economic impacts, and the global energy environment

This module examines the business side of energy, including investment and risk management requirements, as well as the impact of energy across a variety of sectors and economies. It highlights environmental issues, including the economic and social perspectives of energy efficiency and alternate sources of energy.

Energy Policy: The legislation and regulation guiding our energy future

This module examines policy planning, development, and implementation processes, creating an understanding of jurisdiction, process, and impact assessment. Participants are exposed to existing and contemplated policies and regulations impacting the energy sector and related industries and applications.

The Energy Consumer: Understanding what drives energy use, communications tools and social engagement processes

This module explores the complex relationship between energy use, consumer behavior, and climate change. Participants gain insights into what drives energy consumption, how to engage the public through effective communication and social media tools, and how to correct common misconceptions that shape energy choices.

The Evolving Energy Landscape: Innovative Energy Technologies & Alternate Resources

This module provides participants with a forward-looking view of Atlantic Canada's evolving energy landscape. It covers the lifecycle of emerging technologies, regional progress toward net-zero goals, and climate adaptation.

Energy at Work: Putting it all together (case study)

Applying concepts and learning from the first five modules, participants work in a group to analyze a current energy issue facing the region. The group is asked to make recommendations for addressing the issue with consideration for various perspectives and constraints involved.

Program Details

• The program tuition is $7,500 per participant and includes meals, transportation to/from tours, and all materials.
• Participants are expected to attend and participate fully in each module, which is typically held in Saint John, NB.
• A required and integral component of the program includes physical tours of energy assets and related facilities during each module.
• Tours typically include a nuclear generating station, oil refinery, liquified natural gas (LNG) import terminal, manufacturing facility, renewable installation, and a natural gas production site.

Target Audience

The Energy Fundamentals for Leaders Program is designed for professionals, leaders, and managers who work directly or indirectly in the energy sector, including:

• Business development professionals
• Business owners
• Project managers
• Planners
• Facility or plant managers
• Health, safety & environment or sustainability managers
• Engineers
• Energy analysts
• Management consultants

This program provides participants with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of complex energy and related industries to help them make informed decisions about energy issues affecting their or their clients' organizations.