Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government will provide more than $9 million to train approximately 2,300 workers in the manufacturing and construction sectors in Windsor. Funding includes $4.7 million to build a new training facility for local electrical workers as part of the $224 million Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Stream.
“With its rich manufacturing history, Windsor is central to our plan to revive good-paying jobs, particularly in the growing electric vehicle and battery sectors,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Today’s investment will empower Windsor’s workforce, equipping them with the skills necessary for better jobs and higher wages.”
Key projects include:
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 773
- $5.5 million through the SDF to train over 600 new electrical workers and construct a new 24,000-square-foot training centre in Windsor including $4.7 million from the capital stream and $763,410 from the training stream.
Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN):
- $3 million through the SDF Training stream to develop programs for 1,500 auto sector workers, focusing on electric vehicle and battery technologies. This initiative will also include an Automotive Innovation Challenge for students at the University of Windsor and Ontario Tech University, along with a new job placement portal to connect students with local employers.
International Association of Bridge and Ironworkers Local 700:
- $512,836 through the SDF Training stream to train and upskill at least 170 new ironworkers and apprentices, enhancing their instructional equipment and technology.
“As Ontario leads in electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing, we are dedicated to providing our auto workers with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Through the Skills Development Fund, we’re enhancing training and creating better job prospects for many workers driving our economy.”