Industry Leaders Gather to Advance Nuclear Growth, Workforce Development and Supply Chain Opportunities
CAMBRIDGE, Ontario — The City of Cambridge brought together nearly 200 leaders from Ontario’s nuclear sector on June 22 for the 2026 Nuclear Summit, an event aimed at strengthening collaboration across industry, government, education and skilled trades as the province accelerates its nuclear energy expansion.
Hosted by Mayor Jan Liggett and the City of Cambridge under the theme “Rise to the Occasion,” the summit highlighted the city’s growing role in Ontario’s nuclear ecosystem. Participants included industry executives, government officials, skilled trades representatives and post-secondary institutions focused on supporting the province’s long-term energy and economic objectives.
The event was emceed by Jessica Linthorne, President and CEO of the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII), which served as the city’s delivery partner for the summit.
Cambridge has increasingly positioned itself as a centre for nuclear-related manufacturing and supply chain activity. City officials noted that the community’s concentration of advanced manufacturing capabilities, established industrial networks and skilled workforce has made it an important contributor to one of Ontario’s most strategic sectors.
Discussions Focus on Energy Security and Nuclear Innovation
The summit featured three moderated sessions examining the opportunities and challenges associated with Ontario’s nuclear growth.
Mayor Liggett led a fireside discussion with Pat Dalzell, Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Market Development at Bruce Power, and Sandra Dykxhoorn, Vice President of New Nuclear Growth at Ontario Power Generation. The discussion explored Ontario’s efforts to strengthen energy security, expand isotope production and advance next-generation nuclear technologies.
The session also examined how the province is positioning itself as a global leader in nuclear innovation while meeting future electricity demand through reliable, low-emission power generation.
Their participation highlighted the growing importance of Cambridge and its industrial base in supporting provincial nuclear initiatives.
Cambridge’s Manufacturing Sector Takes Centre Stage
A second panel, titled “The Nuclear Industry in Cambridge,” brought together representatives from BWXT, ATS Automation, Eclipse Automation and Pinnacle Logistics.
Panelists discussed the role local companies play within Ontario’s nuclear supply chain and how Cambridge’s manufacturing ecosystem has evolved to support major nuclear projects. Discussions focused on the city’s ability to deliver specialized engineering, automation, logistics and manufacturing services required for both current and future nuclear developments.
Industry representatives emphasized that sustained investment in local businesses and infrastructure will be essential as Ontario pursues additional nuclear projects in the coming years.
Workforce Development Remains a Key Priority
The final session, “Preparing for Nuclear Growth in Cambridge,” focused on the workforce requirements needed to support the sector’s continued expansion.
Representatives from the construction industry, skilled trades organizations and post-secondary institutions discussed apprenticeship programs, workforce training and educational pathways designed to prepare workers for careers in the nuclear industry.
Speakers also examined the need for stronger coordination among employers, educators and government agencies to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified workers capable of meeting future labour demands.
The discussion reflected broader concerns across the province about securing enough skilled workers to support major infrastructure and energy projects over the coming decades.
Province Reaffirms Commitment to Nuclear Expansion
The Honourable Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, delivered keynote remarks outlining the provincial government’s commitment to nuclear energy as a cornerstone of Ontario’s future electricity system.
He emphasized the economic and employment opportunities associated with the province’s expanding nuclear sector, particularly for communities such as Cambridge that play a critical role in the supply chain.
“The Nuclear Summit was an opportunity to not only celebrate the outstanding work in the nuclear industry already happening in Cambridge, but to continue conversations on how we can work together to grow a reliable and sustainable energy future.”
— Mayor Jan Liggett, City of Cambridge
“Ontario’s nuclear expansion is proving that nation-building projects can be built in
Canada using Canadian workers, Canadian technology, Canadian fuel, and Canadian-made
components. Here in Cambridge, that growth is expected to generate more than
one billion in economic activity and support hundreds of local jobs, with another major
investment in the city’s industrial supply chain to be announced in the weeks ahead.
Under Premier Ford’s leadership, this historic nuclear buildout will support 150,000
workers and ensure Ontario remains a global nuclear leader.”
— Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, Government of Ontario
“Today’s discussions in Cambridge are a clear example of how the work underway in the Clean Energy Frontier region of Bruce, Grey and Huron counties delivers real benefits for communities across the province. Our team at NII looks forward to continuing the momentum from today’s event into our advocacy, economic development and policy projects.”
— Jessica Linthorne, President and CEO, Nuclear Innovation Institute
City Signals Continued Support for Sector Growth
The City of Cambridge said it remains committed to supporting the nuclear sector through infrastructure planning, workforce development initiatives and ongoing collaboration with industry partners and provincial and federal governments.
As Ontario advances major nuclear projects and invests in future energy generation capacity, municipal leaders believe Cambridge is well positioned to play an increasingly important role in supporting the province’s clean energy ambitions while generating economic growth and skilled employment opportunities for the region.