IBEW CCO Salutes Minister for Historic Initiative
Categories: IBEW, IBEW 2351, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario
On June 21, Ontario Premier, Doug Ford, announced a new fund that will invest $224 million to build and upgrade training centers across the province.
Access the full release here.
Summary of the News Release
The Ontario Skilled Trades Training Fund is a new initiative to boost Ontario’s skilled trades industry. The fund will provide financial support for training programs and infrastructure improvements throughout the province. This is a major step towards addressing the skills gap and labor shortages in the electrical industry and other skilled trades.
For the IBEW and its members, this fund represents a significant opportunity for growth and development. With increased funding for capital improvements, IBEW local unions across the province will have the opportunity to apply for this funding to “…build new training centres, or upgrade and convert existing facilities into new training centres with state-of-the-art equipment and technology.”
Impact on the IBEW
The Ontario Skilled Trades Training Fund could have several positive impacts on the IBEW and its members. Here are some specific examples:
- Increased Training Opportunities: With additional funding, IBEW members could expect to see more training programs and apprenticeships available to them. This will help members stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies.
- Improved Facilities: The fund will also support infrastructure improvements, meaning training centers and facilities could be upgraded and modernized as new training technologies continue to emerge. This will provide members with a better learning environment and access to the latest equipment and tools.
- More Job Opportunities: As the skilled trades industry grows and develops, there will be an increased demand for skilled workers. This means more job opportunities for IBEW members, as well as a more robust electrical industry in Ontario.
Statements From Our Industry Leaders
“The IBEW Construction Council of Ontario (CCO) once again applauds the leadership of Minister McNaughton and his initiative to strengthen the industry’s and IBEW’s labour capital training requirements. To my knowledge, this is the first time any Ontario government has provided bricks and mortar dollars to the industry or IBEW. The IBEW CCO salutes Minister McNaughton’s historic initiative and welcomes his approach of partnership with labour.”
– James Barry
Executive Secretary Treasurer, IBEW Construction Council of Ontario
“ECAO applauds the Provincial Government, the Premier and Minister McNaughton for this important step in helping ensure Ontario’s energy future and positioning the province to meet its ambitious energy goals. The SDF Capital Stream provides critical financial support to help ensure our electrical contractors and their skilled tradespersons will be ready for the task.”
– Graeme Aitken
Executive Director, Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario
How to Apply
The launch of the Ontario Skilled Trades Training Fund is a significant milestone for the IBEW and the electrical industry as a whole. By investing in the skilled trades, the government is not only addressing the current labor shortages but also ensuring the long-term growth and development of the industry.
To find out if you are eligible for the SDF Capital Stream, visit the below link starting on June 30: https://www.ontario.ca/page/skills-development-fund-capital-stream.
The SDF Capital Stream applications open on June 30 and will be accepted until September 25, 2023 at https://www.ontario.ca/page/available-funding-opportunities-ontario-government.
