Province provides $37M in funding for skills training
The provincial government has announced that it will invest $37 million to fund the training of 15,000 people across the province.
Of that funding, $450,000 is being provided to the Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario (PBCTCO) to support women in the trades and for health and safety training. It is estimated that women represent 4 percent of all active apprentices in the industrial, motive power and construction trades combined.
Overall, the money will be used to support 86 projects and to provide training in high-demand skills like information technology, advanced manufacturing, truck driving, construction and horticulture. The programs, which will be run by universities, colleges, training providers and community and business organizations, will include internships and other hands-on learning experiences. In most cases, the training is provided at no charge.
Premier Doug Ford, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton, and members of the PBCTCO were on hand for the announcement at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 105 Training Centre in Hamilton on September 3.
"As part of our government's made-in-Ontario plan for growth, renewal and economic recovery, we are making multi-billion-dollar infrastructure investments in transit, highway, and broadband projects," said Ford. "To get the job done, we need to train as many electricians, welders, carpenters, and other skilled workers as we can. Today's investment will ensure we have the right people rebuilding our province and contributing to our long-term success."
"Jobs change lives. Whether you're a student, a graduate or a mid-career worker, we want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to upgrade their skills, gain practical hands-on experience and find a good job," said McNaughton. "Today's announcement is an important step forward and a real opportunity to set people down the path to new in-demand careers."
Some of the other projects receiving funding include:
- The Ford Motor Company of Canada in Oakville will receive more than $954,000 to create up to 244 co-op learning spots to give college and university students practical, hands-on experience for careers in manufacturing, vehicle connectivity and business operations.
- The Greenhouse Academy in Thorndale will receive $440,000 to train secondary students about how to grow plants, prepare seedlings for reforestation projects, and gain real workplace and business experience.
- Roland Gossage Foundation will receive $500,000 for their Soldiers in Tech project to help up to 45 veterans train for careers in web development and technology.
The province is working to finalize agreements with training providers. The full list of successful recipients will be available on September 25.