The Ontario government announced on Tuesday (July 2, 2024) that it’s investing over $3.6 million through the Skills Development Fund (SDF) to support various training initiatives and infrastructure enhancements in Hamilton. This funding is expected to provide free training to up to 3,800 apprentices, journeypersons, and jobseekers—preparing them for lucrative careers in high-demand fields, such as millwright, welding, and electrical trades.
“A skilled workforce is a top priority to attracting and retaining globally competitive business in Hamilton,” said Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath. “I am absolutely thrilled with today’s announcement of the Ontario government investing over $3.6 million through (the SDF) in four training projects and one building expansion project in Hamilton.”
“I want to thank the Provincial government, Minister Piccini and Premier Ford for their support. This investment will greatly benefit Hamiltonians and continues to highlight the valuable and necessary career paths that exist in these industries,” she added.
Funding breakdown:
- International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 105: Receiving $2,388,405 for two training projects aimed at helping 80 individuals gain entry-level electrical skills and safety training and upskilling Red Seal electricians in welding.
- United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local 1916 (Millwright Local 1916): $797,953 to train 125 millwrights, apprentices, and journeypersons on the latest technologies used in the field. The training will also be extended to job seekers, youth, women, recent immigrants, and Indigenous peoples.
- International Association of Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers Local 736: $178,460 to enhance welding skills for up to 50 individuals and support the purchase of new welding booths at the Local 736 training facility.
- United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local 1916 (Millwright Local 1916): $248,338.86 to expand the existing training center with a new mezzanine level, increasing training capacity by 15-20% and benefiting up to 3,545 members over the next six years.
Premier Doug Ford emphasized the province’s commitment to empowering Hamilton’s workforce. “By continuing to invest in our Skills Development Fund, including the brand-new SDF capital stream, we’re also helping build up Ontario’s labour force so we can support provincial businesses and attract new investment, better jobs and bigger paycheques for Ontario workers,” he said.
With the demand for skilled trades workers projected to exceed 500,000 over the next decade, this funding is a timely investment in Hamilton’s future. The enhanced training centers and programs will equip individuals with the skills needed to secure well-paying jobs and contribute to the province’s ongoing infrastructure development.
Photo credit: Government of Ontario