OSTA Welcomes More Support for Employers Who Train Apprentices

November 26, 2021

The Ontario Skilled Trades Alliance (OSTA), which represents companies that employ thousands of skilled trades workers, is pleased the Ontario government is making further investments to address the provincial skills gap. The funding announcement today by Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, Monte McNaughton, will help to tackle a number of critical pinch-points in the skilled trades system, including promotion, early skills development, the information gap and providing enhanced apprenticeship incentives.

“These broad-based investments will make a long-term impact on the skills gap in Ontario,” said Patrick McManus, Chair of the OSTA. “As Ontario’s skilled labour shortage reaches an all-time high, it’s more important than ever to invest in promoting these careers and improving accessibility to training. This will ensure the next generation of workers is equipped with the critical skills necessary for our job market.”

The OSTA recently commissioned a report entitled Examining Employer Incentives in Ontario’s Skills Training System. The report calls for greater supports for employers, given that they are largely responsible for promoting, training and mentoring skilled trades workers.

“We are pleased the Ontario government listened and acknowledged the important contribution that employers make,” added McManus. “Employers are the gatekeepers, trainers and mentors who make it possible for aspiring tradespeople to achieve their career goals.”

The OSTA believes the investments announced today will go a long way in encouraging people to explore all of the different career opportunities that are available in the trades.

The Ontario Skilled Trades Alliance represents companies that employ over 100,000 skilled tradespeople across Ontario who build transit, hospitals, bridges and homes and provide professional and personal services like hairstyling and automotive repair. OSTA members are united by the common goal of closing the skills gap in Ontario.

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