IBEW Canada Supports National Collaboration on Skilled Trades Training

July 4, 2025

On June 24, IBEW Canada proudly joined national partners and government leaders at IBEW Local 353’s training centre in Mississauga, ON, for a media event hosted by the Future Skills Centre (FSC), Skillplan, and Canada’s Building Trades Unions (CBTU).

The event spotlighted The Pan-Canadian Recruitment and Training System for Canada’s Unionized Construction Sector, a national initiative funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)’s Future Skills Program. The project is reshaping recruitment and training across the skilled trades, making pathways more accessible to underrepresented groups and helping meet the growing demand for qualified tradespeople.

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and FedNor, toured IBEW Local 353’s state-of-the-art training facilities, met Hammer Head apprentices, and joined a discussion with project partners on the future of trades and workforce development in Canada.

International Vice President Russ Shewchuk represented IBEW Canada during the visit. “IBEW training centres are leading the way in workforce development, and we are proud to partner with initiatives like this to expand apprenticeship opportunities for Canadians,” said Shewchuk who also enjoyed the opportunity to connect with the group of engaged apprentices.

Shewchuk further stated his gratitude to Minister Hajdu for taking the time to visit the training centre and speak with apprentices and industry leaders. “Now, more than ever, we need to prioritize Canada and Canadian Labour. We are willing and eager to work with government on finding solutions to ensure we have skilled workers in Canada ready and able to mobilize on upcoming federal projects to build our nation.”

IBEW Canada remains committed to advancing equity, inclusion, and excellence in the skilled trades by strengthening partnerships and investing in the next generation of electrical workers.

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