The Ontario government has announced an investment of more $2.6 million through its Skills Development Fund (SDF) to help workers in London and surrounding areas prepare for jobs in the construction and manufacturing sectors.

Through the SDF, the province is partnering with two organizations to deliver three free training programs.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 120 is receiving $694,546 to provide 91 participants with essential safety certifications, electrical skills and workplace readiness for construction sector jobs to overcome barriers, advance in their careers and qualify for specialized roles.

Literacy Link South Central is receiving $1,945,912 for two programs. Their Apprenticeship Readiness Inventory and Skills Evaluation program will provide foundational skills for 250 apprentices. The Step Up and Succeed: Foundational Skill Building for the Skilled Trades will integrate literacy and basic skills into their training, supporting 298 participants.

“Our government is standing shoulder to shoulder with Ontario’s workers to make sure they are protected in the face of global economic uncertainty,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “That’s why we are proud to invest in programs that will get workers better training, for better jobs, with bigger paycheques. It’s about giving people the tools they need to succeed while building a stronger, more productive Ontario.”

Since its launch in 2021, Ontario has committed $2.5 billion to its Skills Development Fund to help train more than one million workers for in-demand careers in sectors like the skilled trades.