Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is contributing more than $890,000 in training programs for about 3,775 jobseekers in Belleville, targeting careers in construction, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and more. Funding, allocated through the Skills Development Fund (SDF) and Pre-Apprenticeship programs, is part of a broader effort to address labour shortages and boost local training capacities.
David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development made the announcement on Sept. 13.
“Our government is committed to creating opportunities for young people and jobseekers, building a skilled workforce for the future,” Piccini said. “Under Premier Ford’s leadership, we are partnering with local organizations to ensure Ontarians are equipped for well-paying careers.”
Projects include:
- Ontario East Economic Development Commission: Awarded $285,400 to the Workforce Partners Support Project, aimed at helping 1,715 jobseekers in Eastern Ontario.
- Junior Achievement of Northern & Eastern Ontario: Received $241,280 for the Empowerment of Youth in the Skilled Trades program, which will provide training to 2,000 high school students, including those with disabilities.
- Youth Habilitation Quinte Inc.: Granted $363,500 for pre-apprenticeship training in carpentry, including safety and foundational skills.
Loyalist College has also been approved to expand its Industrial Millwright program by 30 seats annually, addressing a critical need for training in Eastern Ontario.
“Today’s announcement strengthens the connection between industry needs and educational programs,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges and Universities, emphasized the importance of local colleges in addressing labour market need.
The investment is part of a $260 million funding round for the SDF Training Stream, bringing the total investment to $1.4 billion since the fund’s inception.
The Kingston-Pembroke economic region, including Belleville, recently reported 6,600 unfilled jobs.
John McNutt, President & CEO of JA Northern and Eastern Ontario, highlighted the program’s role in closing the skilled trades gap, while Ted Parker, Executive Director of Youth Habilitation Quinte Inc., noted the benefits of their new Pre-Apprenticeship Readiness Employment Program.
Since 2021, the SDF Training Stream has helped nearly 600,000 workers across various sectors.
“Loyalist College is excited to offer the Industrial Mechanic Millwright Apprenticeship program,” said Mark Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of Loyalist College,” said Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis.
For more information, interested parties should contact the lead organizations directly. Applications for the SDF Training Stream Round 5 will be reviewed until Oct. 4, 2024.ott