Nokia and Algonquin College Deepen Collaboration to Drive Innovation and Workforce Readiness

Posted on Monday, October 27th, 2025

Learners in Algonquin College’s Bachelor of Information Technology – Network Technology (BIT-NET) program recently gained hands-on experience with Nokia’s Data Center Fabric technologies, learning directly from Nokia engineers who design and deploy these advanced network systems. The four-day, in-person course was supported by a $125,000 Nokia investment.

This milestone marks the next chapter in Algonquin’s and Nokia’s strategic partnership — one that’s fueling Canada’s innovation economy by developing the next generation of tech talent and advancing education, industry collaboration, and reconciliation.

“We chose to offer this training because we believe in investing directly in the next generation of technology talent,” said Karyn Lennon, Head of Network Infrastructure Knowledge Services at Nokia. “By bringing Nokia engineers into the classroom and opening our doors to students, we’re helping bridge the gap between education and industry. Our goal is to provide students with meaningful, real-world skills — and to inspire them to pursue careers shaping the connected world of tomorrow.”

At the conclusion of the course, students had the opportunity to take the exam to become a Nokia Certified Data Center Fabric Professional, learning the essentials of data center networking with Nokia’s SR Linux and earning an industry-recognized credential that enhances their career readiness.

“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Nokia — a company that not only drives innovation but also shares our commitment to preparing students for the future of technology,” said Sandra Brancatelli, Dean of the School of Advanced Technology at Algonquin College.

“Nokia has consistently gone above and beyond in their collaboration with the College, whether it’s providing hands-on learning experiences or helping us expand opportunities for underrepresented groups in tech. This initiative exemplifies the power of industry-academic partnerships in action.”

As part of this collaboration, 85 Algonquin College students recently took part in an exclusive visit to Nokia’s Kanata facility, featuring:

  • A presentation on Nokia’s global and Canadian operations
  • A guided tour of its advanced research and innovation labs
  • A technical demonstration led by Nokia experts
  • Networking sessions with hiring managers for upcoming co-op and internship opportunities

For further information

Meg Fraser
Communications Officer– Algonquin College
Fraserm2@algonquincollege.com
613-302-0138

Lygia Torelli
Communications Manager – Nokia
lygia.torelli@nokia.com
+55 11 95920 0115

 

Background on Algonquin College and Nokia partnership:

This latest collaboration continues a multi-year relationship between Nokia and Algonquin College, which began in 2023 when Nokia became a DARE6 partner, joining a network of organizations committed to reconciliation—through education, action, and understanding. Together, Nokia and Algonquin College have strengthened their partnership through initiatives that advance truth and reconciliation, including a joint land acknowledgement statement and a visit to Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, where both organizations engaged in shared learning and dialogue.

In 2024, Nokia reinforced its commitment to the College with a donation of over $530,000 in state-of-the-art technology, helping to build an ecosystem of innovation on campus.

Beyond technical education, Nokia is also a proud partner in Algonquin College’s Women in Tech and Trades (WiTT) program — an initiative that empowers women to explore and pursue careers in technology and the skilled trades.

Through this collaboration, Nokia is helping to create new pathways for women to thrive in tech and innovation sectors — ensuring Canada’s digital economy is shaped by diverse, skilled voices.

We are proud of our growing partnership with Nokia and look forward to continuing this impactful collaboration—fostering talent development, advancing research, and deepening our shared commitment to reconciliation, supporting women in tech and having community impact.


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