MHI has signed a two-year contract with NB Power to design and deliver a comprehensive hydro operations training and testing program to build capability across NB Power’s hydro operations teams.
The project officially kicked off on April 1, 2026, and will focus on developing a structured training system for hydro plant operators at NB Power’s Mactaquac Generating Station (692 MW). The program is designed primarily for newly hired operators, while also supporting the ongoing development of existing staff.
Beyond its immediate application, the program is intended to serve as a scalable framework that can be adapted for use across NB Power’s remotely operated stations.
To meet the demands of complex hydroelectric operations, MHI is developing a two-part solution that includes a detailed course design and a comprehensive content library. The program will incorporate interactive learning modules, knowledge verification tools, and practical, scenario-based content grounded in real operational environments. Designed to support self-guided learning, the training system will also serve as a long-term resource for NB Power, forming part of its future operator training approach.
“This project is about translating real-world operational experience into training that people can immediately apply,” said Eric Maxwell (Managing Director, MHI). “Our team has spent their careers in control rooms, on generating floors, and in training environments. That perspective allows us to build something that’s practical, relevant, and built to last.”
The project is led by a team of Manitoba Hydro veterans, including operations and maintenance expert Grant Stubson, subject matter expert Ellen MacDougall, and training and development specialist Lianne Lagasse. Together, they bring decades of experience across hydroelectric operations and workforce development, ensuring the training reflects both technical accuracy and how operators learn best.
NB Power, which serves more than 400,000 customers across New Brunswick, plays a critical role in the province’s energy infrastructure. This collaboration highlights a shared focus on operational excellence and workforce development at a time when utilities across North America are investing in the next generation of skilled operators.