GTA Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government has announced about $1.75 million in funding for six apprenticeship training projects across the Greater Toronto Area aimed at strengthening skilled trades training and preparing workers for in-demand careers.
The funding, provided through the Apprenticeship Capital Grant program, will support upgrades to training facilities, the purchase of modern equipment and expanded hands-on learning opportunities for apprentices.
“To build the homes, transit and infrastructure Ontario needs, we must continue training the next generation of skilled workers,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “By investing in apprenticeship training across the GTA and throughout Ontario, we are helping apprentices gain hands-on experience with the modern tools and technologies they will use on the job.”
Projects in Durham, York, Peel and Halton regions will use the funding to modernize training spaces, expand shop capacity and introduce advanced technologies.
Among the recipients are:
- The Canadian Elevator Industry Educational Program, which will receive $451,402 to add electric motor troubleshooting labs and expand technical training equipment for elevator mechanic apprentices.
- The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 793 Training Institute, which will receive $400,000 to renovate and modernize its apprenticeship training centre.
- LiUNA Local 506 Training Centre, which will receive $333,654 to purchase a telehandler and skid steer for construction craft worker training.
- The Provincial Sheet Metal Workers Training Centre, which will receive $300,000 to introduce virtual reality training and modern equipment for sheet metal worker apprentices.
- Durham College, which will receive $205,000 to establish new automotive and electrical training labs.
- Sheridan College, which will receive $55,922 to purchase 24 carrier units and expand training capacity for plumbing apprentices.
The province says the upgrades will give apprentices access to modern, industry-relevant training environments while helping training providers keep pace with changing technologies. The projects are also expected to support workforce development in key sectors such as construction, transportation and infrastructure.
Ontario is projected to require about 75,000 workers to fill skilled trades-related job openings in the construction sector as a result of retirements and continued industry growth.
