A new training initiative is bringing hands-on, future-focused education to communities across the north thanks to a new partnership between Manitoba Construction Sector Council (MCSC) and Assiniboine College with funding from the Province of Manitoba. The Manitoba Green Building Program is a 100-hour digital micro-credential that equips learners with an associate certificate while introducing the essential science behind sustainable construction. The goal is to deliver the training to 10 First Nations communities in northern Manitoba with foundational knowledge in green building practices, with a strong emphasis on the realities of remote and Indigenous communities. 

“MCSC is proud to partner with Assiniboine College to facilitate the Green Building Program,” said Carol Paul, MCSC’s Executive Director. “As we have established relationships with First Nations across Manitoba, this was a natural and beneficial partnership to bring to life with our instructors who have significant experience delivering training in these communities.” 

At its core, the program goes beyond basic construction skills. Students explore the underlying theory that shapes sustainable building, including energy efficiency, building envelope design, moisture control, ventilation systems, and the lifecycle of materials. The curriculum introduces principles such as thermal performance, indoor air quality, and climate-responsive design—key factors in ensuring buildings are durable, safe, and environmentally responsible. 

Learners also examine how geography and climate influence construction choices, particularly in northern regions where extreme weather, limited infrastructure, and high transportation costs present unique challenges. By grounding technical knowledge in real-world applications, the program helps students understand not just how to build, but why certain approaches are essential for long-term success. 

“We need more housing, but we also need housing that’s going to last and help contribute to the net zero goals that the country and the province have,” said Michelle Budiwski, Assiniboine College’s Program Coordinator. “In order to work with construction and industry professionals, we need to build a base understanding of why sustainability is essential.” 

To ensure relevance, the curriculum was carefully adapted to reflect the specific needs of Manitoba’s northern and First Nations communities. Drawing on existing educational frameworks, the program team collaborated with industry experts, including a sustainable architect and a Red Seal carpenter, to customize training content for local conditions. Their combined expertise helped shape a program that balances theory with practical insight, preparing students for real-world application. 

“Working with MCSC, we were able to adapt the curriculum to focus on Manitoba’s northern climate, communities, and new builds,” Budiwski explained. “With our team of professionals, curriculum developers, and subject matter experts, we were able to create something meaningful and impactful.” 

This partnership also bridges the gap between education and industry. By leveraging MCSC’s network and on-the-ground experience, the program connects learners with broader opportunities in the construction sector. 

“MCSC has that industry knowledge, respect, and the resources to help us move education into industry,” said Budiwski. “In continuing studies, my role is to respond directly to industry demands, and this program is a perfect example of that.” 

Beyond technical training, the initiative aims to inspire long-term growth. Organizers hope participants will carry their knowledge back into their communities and workplaces, contributing to stronger, more sustainable local economies. 

The goal of the Green Building Program is to inspire students to expand their education in green building and sustainable construction. “We want them to bring that knowledge back to their organizations so we can continue to grow this program into more advanced and industry-specific training,” Paul Said. 

The program also challenges the perception that sustainable construction is limited to urban centers. By delivering training directly to northern communities, it highlights the shared responsibility of building sustainably—regardless of location. 

“We need more housing,” Budiwski emphasized. “But affordability isn’t just about what we build today—it’s about how long it lasts. That’s what this program is all about.”  

Ultimately, the Green Building Program addresses a critical need: housing that is not only affordable to build but built to last.