NETCO Applauds the Federal Government of Canada Spring Economic Update

May 11, 2026

Chris Swick, Executive Director, National Electrical Trade Council (NETCO) released a statement on LinkedIn applauding the Federal Government of Canada Spring Economic update, which was announced on April 28th.

“Today’s commitments in the Spring Economic Update represent a meaningful and long-overdue investment in Canada’s skilled trades workforce. At NETCO, we strongly support the government’s focus on expanding apprenticeship pathways, modernizing training systems, and investing in union-led training centres through programs like the Union Training and Innovation Program.

We are particularly encouraged that industry stakeholders were brought to the table to help inform these measures. This collaborative approach—where government actively listened to those delivering training and working on the ground—has resulted in practical, targeted investments that respond to real workforce needs.

These measures—especially the increased funding for apprenticeship training, completion grants, and employer incentives—will help remove long-standing barriers that apprentices face and ensure more Canadians can successfully enter and complete Red Seal trades.

The emphasis on early engagement, including youth pathways and partnerships with initiatives like Helmets to Hardhats and the Canadian Armed Forces, is especially welcome. It reflects a coordinated, national approach to workforce development that aligns with the scale of Canada’s infrastructure and housing ambitions.

NETCO and our partners at IBEW Canada are ready to continue working with government to deliver high-quality, accessible training that supports apprentices from recruitment through to certification and long-term careers in the skilled trades.”