Bridging the Gap: How Continuing Education Divisions Are Driving Sustainability Through Collaboration

Sustainability is reshaping the future of work—and Continuing Education (CE) divisions in higher education are uniquely positioned to lead this shift. 

In a recent episode of the Illumination podcast, Nicole Neufeld, Manager of Continuing Studies at the University of Northern British Columbia, shared how CE units are evolving to build collaborative, flexible, and industry-responsive programs that meet the demands of a changing world. 

Sustainability Is Now a Workforce Imperative

Neufeld emphasizes that sustainability is no longer a peripheral issue—it’s a critical skillset across nearly every sector. From forestry and tourism to energy and healthcare, professionals are expected to incorporate sustainable practices into their everyday work.

As industries face regulatory pressure, evolving consumer expectations, and growing environmental risk, the demand for sustainability-savvy professionals is rising. This creates a significant opportunity for CE divisions to support professionals through relevant, up-to-date training.

The Role of Continuing Education in Equipping Professionals

Continuing Education units are built for agility. Unlike traditional academic programs, CE divisions can swiftly adapt to labor market shifts and deliver targeted, accessible programming. 

Neufeld points to how sustainability can be embedded into existing course offerings—from project management to leadership development. 

“By integrating sustainable development principles into familiar subjects, learners can apply new practices immediately in their roles,” she said. This approach allows professionals to remain competitive while supporting broader environmental and social goals. 

Curriculum Innovation Through Industry Partnership

One of CE’s greatest strengths is its close alignment with industry. “We can go directly to industry and say, ‘What are your current needs?’” Neufeld explained. This enables CE units to design and update programming based on real-time insights, ensuring relevance and impact. 

By incorporating real-world case studies, hands-on projects, and applied learning tools, CE programs become more than academic exercises—they become practical training grounds for change agents across industries. Specialized micro-credentials in areas like sustainable tourism, renewable energy, and land management are particularly effective at meeting emerging demands.

Collaboration Across Campuses and Communities

Effective sustainability programming doesn’t happen in silos. Neufeld highlights how CE units can serve as bridges between academic departments and the workforce. Co-developed, stackable credentials allow learners to gain focused skills in areas like sustainable project management while progressing toward broader academic qualifications. 

Incorporating faculty expertise through co-teaching models and embedding applied research into programming ensures both academic rigor and industry relevance. CE divisions also play a pivotal role in engaging external partners—businesses, government agencies, and Indigenous communities—to build accessible, community-driven pathways to postsecondary education, especially in rural and remote areas. 

Getting Started: Practical First Steps for CE Leaders

For CE units looking to begin or deepen their focus on sustainability, Neufeld offers practical advice: start small by integrating sustainability into existing courses. 

“Conduct a curriculum audit. Identify where case studies or hands-on projects related to sustainability can be added,” she suggested. 

Once these foundations are laid, CE leaders can pilot targeted workshops or short programs to gauge interest and build momentum. Online and hybrid delivery formats not only expand access but align with the very sustainability goals they promote by reducing environmental impact. 

Ultimately, Neufeld sees CE as a catalyst for building a resilient, future-ready workforce. 

“It’s about integrating sustainability into our long-term vision,” she said, “and ensuring that Continuing Education leads the way.” 

Take the Next Step Toward a Sustainable CE Strategy

Neufeld’s insights reflect a growing imperative: Continuing Education divisions must lead the way in building sustainability into workforce development. By leveraging collaboration, flexibility, and industry alignment, CE can help shape a workforce prepared for the challenges—and opportunities—ahead.

Ready to take action? Download CAUCE’s Executive Guide: 12 Key Pillars for Success to explore how CE leaders across Canada are transforming postsecondary education for a sustainable future.