Revving Up Windsor-Essex: How the Nexstar EV Battery Plant Can Drive Our Future

In March 2022, Windsor-Essex received a pivotal announcement: the region would soon host Canada’s first large-scale electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing plant. The $5 billion Nexstar Energy facility, a joint venture between LG Energy Solution and Stellantis, will be a game-changer for our local economy. With production slated to be fully operational by 2024 and at full capacity by 2025, this project is set to reshape Windsor-Essex and position us as a key player in the global EV supply chain.

But as this investment starts to take shape, there’s one important question: How can we, as a community, make sure we get the most out of it? This isn't just about welcoming new jobs. It's about engaging in ways we’ve never done before, building on the strengths of our community, and positioning Windsor-Essex as a hub for innovation and talent.

A New Era of Community Engagement

Our local auto industry is no stranger to community involvement. For decades, the Stellantis Windsor Assembly Plant has been a pillar of our economy, with local unions and employees taking the lead in shaping community relations. However, NextStar Energy brings something different. LG Energy Solution is focused on building a workplace that’s not only about production but about people. Their vision includes attracting a diverse workforce, providing state-of-the-art employee amenities, and building programs that enhance the well-being of their employees.

But they can't do it alone. We need to be proactive in connecting our community with this new facility. One major shift already happening is the investment in workforce development programs to get our people up to speed for the high-tech jobs Nexstar will bring. Invest Windsor Essex and local institutions like St. Clair College are already rolling out training programs aimed at preparing workers for the complexities of EV production. These programs are being supported by government funding, which is helping to upskill our local workforce and ensure that Windsor-Essex is ready to meet the demands of this new industry.

Mentorship and Collaboration: Bridging Generations of Talent

One thing we can do as a community is create mentorship opportunities that bridge the gap between seasoned workers and younger talent. Our experienced auto workers have invaluable knowledge, but the EV industry brings new technologies that require fresh perspectives. A mentorship program can blend the best of both worlds—allowing our veteran workforce to pass on their expertise while embracing the new skill sets that younger workers bring to the table.

Imagine seasoned assembly line veterans mentoring young engineers just stepping into the EV industry. This kind of collaboration doesn’t just prepare individuals; it builds a strong, cohesive workforce that can adapt and thrive in an evolving industry. It's also a great way to foster a sense of community within Nexstar, ensuring that this isn’t just a plant but a workplace where people invest in each other’s growth.

The Startup Effect: An Innovative Ecosystem

Beyond training and workforce development, one of the most exciting aspects of Nexstar's arrival is what I like to call the "startup effect." This plant isn’t just about battery production—it’s also a catalyst for innovation. Through Invest WindsorEssex , we’ve already started to see an influx of global startups eager to tap into the growing EV supply chain. These startups are creating next-gen technologies, from battery management systems to advanced materials, and they want to be a part of what’s happening right here.

We need to create the conditions for these startups to flourish in Windsor-Essex. That means providing access to co-working spaces, fostering collaboration between local manufacturers and these new companies, and building networks where ideas can turn into viable businesses. Incentive programs, such as tax breaks or grants for companies working on EV technology, can attract more startups to the region and help them grow.

Local accelerators and incubators will play a key role here. By supporting startups with mentorship, funding, and access to cutting-edge resources, we can build an innovative ecosystem that feeds into Nexstar’s supply chain. It’s this startup ecosystem that will have a multiplier effect—creating even more jobs, more innovation, and more opportunities for Windsor-Essex to shine on the global stage.

Overcoming Industry Concerns: Training for the Future

It’s no secret that there are concerns about the EV industry’s growth. We’ve seen plant delays across the U.S. and Canada, and some skeptics are questioning the long-term viability of EV manufacturing. But LG Energy Solution has made it clear that Nexstar is moving forward as planned. We can’t afford to sit on the sidelines and wonder if it will succeed—we need to ask what we can do to ensure that it does.

One of the most concrete actions we can take is to actively engage with the workforce development programs that are already being funded. These programs, backed by provincial and federal support, are training our workforce for the highly specialized roles needed in EV production. Whether it’s retraining current auto workers or preparing new graduates for the field, we need to ensure that Windsor-Essex has the talent pool Nexstar will require.

Educational institutions can play a major role by offering targeted programs in engineering, automation, and EV technologies. Apprenticeships, co-ops, and internships within the Nexstar supply chain will give students real-world experience and provide a direct pipeline of talent for the plant.

A Call to Action: How We Can Help

So, what can we do as community members to ensure Nexstar’s success? Here are some concrete steps:

Get trained: If you're a worker or student, take advantage of the retraining programs already being offered. Whether you’re pivoting to a new career or expanding your skill set, these programs will help you stay ahead in the EV industry. www.evcareers.ca

Mentor and collaborate: If you’re an experienced auto worker, consider mentoring younger talent. Your expertise is invaluable, and by working together, we can build a stronger, more adaptable workforce.

Support local startups: If you're an entrepreneur, investor, or just someone passionate about innovation, get involved in the startup scene. Attend networking events, invest in local companies, or find ways to support startups that are feeding into the EV supply chain.

Advocate for local business involvement: If you own or operate a business, explore how your company can support Nexstar. Whether it’s through direct procurement or offering niche services, getting involved in the supply chain is key to keeping the economic benefits of Nexstar local.

Nexstar isn’t just another factory—it’s an opportunity to transform Windsor-Essex into a hub for innovation, talent, and economic growth. By embracing workforce development, supporting startups, and fostering community engagement, we can ensure that this investment benefits everyone. The future of Windsor-Essex is in our hands, and it’s time to take the wheel.

Read more about how the Nexstar plant is sparking dreams of an auto sector rebirth here.https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/going-electric-is-auto-industrys-biggest-challenge-in-over-a-century