Focus on Information Technology (FIT)
When & where
-
National, ONCalgary, AB
Who it's for
- Canadian Educator (Grades 9-12)
Certifications
- Focus on IT (FIT) Certificate
Prepare Students for Careers in a Digital World
The Focus on Information Technology (FIT) program helps educators prepare secondary school students across Canada for careers in the digital economy.
Developed by ICTC in partnership with educators and industry, FIT supports students in building practical ICT, business, and employability skills through classroom learning, structured pathways, and real-world experiences.
Since 2007, FIT has helped students develop digital skills, explore career pathways, and build a portfolio of achievements that supports future education and employment opportunities.
Regardless of their chosen education program, integrating ICT skills is critical for success in today's world and for opening doors to future careers.
What students can gain
Technical, business, and employability skills
Practical experience through co-ops, internships, projects, or volunteer work
Exposure to high-demand digital career pathways
A portfolio of skills, achievements, microcredentials, and certificates
Who can participate?
FIT is available to educators in Canadian secondary schools who want to bring practical, real-world digital learning into their classrooms.
FIT has been updated to better reflect today’s digital skills needs, with a stronger focus on flexibility, accessibility, and emerging technologies.
Key updates include:
A new Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning stream
FIT for All, which supports the integration of digital skills across different subjects, from geography (GIS), biology (data coding), arts (digital tools), to agriculture (automation)
Expanded recognition of work experience, including internships, part-time work, volunteering, and school projects
Microcredentials and digital badges to recognize specific skills and achievements
Educators can help students pursue a general FIT certificate or specialize in one or more areas based on their interests and career goals.
Available areas include:
Cybersecurity
Software Design and Development
Interactive Media
Network and Systems Operations
Business and Information Analysis
Artificial Intelligence
FIT for All, including cross-disciplinary applications of ICT
Courses align with provincial curricula. Educators identify pathways and support students in tracking progress through a digital skills portfolio at etalentcanada.ca
FIT offers flexible pathways that recognize different types of learning and achievement.
Certification levels include:
FIT Basic
FIT with Experience
FIT with Certification
FIT with Experience and Certification
FIT Plus
These levels allow students to build on their achievements over time, from core business and technical competencies to work experience, recognized certifications, and advanced standards.
Examples of recognized industry certifications include CompTIA A+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft Office Specialist, Java, and advanced AI/ML badges.
Access Resources and Implementation Tools
Educators can access resources to support FIT implementation, including lesson plans, curriculum guides, pathway tools, and digital skills portfolio resources.
The ICTC Knowledge Exchange Hub also provides additional implementation support, educator resources, and opportunities for community discussion. Educators can sign up for free at etalentcanada.ca/ictc-knowledge-exchange-hub.
Need a FIT Certificate?
Students graduated from FIT program
Provinces with FIT graduates
FUNDER
Funded by the Government of Canada’s CanCode Initiative
