NEWS RELEASE
MPP ANDREA KHANJIN
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The Ontario government is investing $24 million to improve and modernize equipment and training facilities that support hands-on learning for students and apprentices. These investments ensure apprentices have access to high-quality training as they pursue rewarding careers in the skilled trades.
“By 2025, one in five jobs in Ontario are expected to be in the skilled trades,” said Minister McNaughton. “Our government is working for workers to ensure the mechanics, welders, and heavy equipment operators of tomorrow have the quality tools and equipment they need to learn the tools of their trade. This investment will give students and apprentices the learning experiences they deserve in the classroom, so they are set up for success on the job site.”
“The skilled trades offer rewarding and meaningful career opportunities to many young people in Ontario,” said MPP Andrea Khanjin. “In my riding of Barrie-Innisfil, there are many organizations offering skilled trades jobs, and as Ontario grows, we will need more and more skilled trades workers. This investment today will make sure that students have access to the best hands-on education available, so they are prepared for the job site.”
The Apprenticeship Capital Grant program funded 64 training providers and 19 apprenticeship training organizations across the province in 2021-22. Interested organizations can apply for funding until Dec. 21, 2021.
Today’s investment is part of the government’s $1.5 billion investment in its Skilled Trades Strategy between 2020 and 2024. This builds on the government’s ongoing efforts to attract, support, and protect workers, making Ontario the top place in the world to work, live and raise a family.
Quick Facts
- There are 144 skilled trades in Ontario.
- There are over 315,000 unfilled jobs in Ontario, many of which are in the skilled trades.
- Data suggests that the need to replace retiring workers is greater for skilled trades workers than for other occupations. In 2016, nearly one in three journey persons were aged 55 years or older.
- The Apprenticeship Capital Grant is supported by labour market transfer agreements between the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
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