Skills Ontario Supports Ontario’s Investments in Skilled Trades in Budget Announcement

March 28. 2024

As demand for skilled trades professionals rises, Skills Ontario is commending the government for continued investments in skilled trades and technology programing, working to address the shortfall and need to build the workforce of the future in Ontario. 

The skilled trades shortage is costing Ontario approximately $25 billion in foregone GDP. A Conference Board of Canada study highlighted a need of over 500,000 new entrants to the skilled trades by 2030 to address shortages.

The demand for workers is also growing in key areas of Ontario’s economy, like manufacturing, health and safety, advanced IT and construction.  The Ontario construction industry alone is projecting a shortfall of over 100,000 skilled trades people over the next decade. Skills Ontario is pleased to see the investment to address the shortfalls and crisis in housing and infrastructure. 

Ian Howcroft, the CEO of Skills Ontario, says now is the time to continue to increase investment into skilled trades and technology programming to keep the momentum going.

“The province has been a leader in supporting skilled trades professionals which is why continued investment is so important. The additional $100 million funding for the Skills Development Fund will help support the economy and help keep our healthcare system, and our society operating.” said Howcroft.

Skills Ontario also welcomes further $16.5 million annually over the next three years that will support a variety of programs focused on breaking the stigma and attracting more young people into the skilled trades, simplifying the system, and encouraging employer participation in apprenticeships.  Skills Ontario also welcomes more support for the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), with which we are proud to work closely. 

“As an organization inspiring youth to pursue skilled trade and technology careers, we are making a difference in dispelling the myths and improving the image of skilled trade professionals. More people have a far different view of what these essential careers are and realize how important these skills are.”

Grateful for past provincial government support, Skills Ontario looks forward to building our partnership to achieve more success through collaboration and partnership with the Ontario government. 

Source

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    November 4, 2024 The total value of building permits in Canada decreased by $858.1 million (-7.0%) to $11.5 billion in August, following a strong July during which construction intentions rose sharply (+20.8%). The residential and non-residential sectors contributed to the decrease in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), the total value of building permits decreased 7.6% in… Read More…

  • A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    November 4, 2024 Investment in building construction edged up 0.2% to $21.0 billion in August, after a 1.6% decrease in July. The residential sector edged down (-0.1%) to $14.6 billion, while the non-residential sector was up 1.0% to $6.4 billion. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 7.2% in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), investment in building construction was… Read More…

  • When a Familiar Door Closes

    When a Familiar Door Closes

    November 4, 2024 By Keith Sones, seasoned utility industry executive Most of the articles I’ve written have been based on personal experiences, many of them occurring decades ago, which eventually translate into helpful life lessons. The years allow the events to marinate in a savoury stew of time and reflection, clarity never coming immediately, or even… Read More…

  • Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    November 4, 2024 Effective October 30, 2024, Manitoba’s apprenticeship and certification system will undergo regulatory changes. These changes aim to enhance responsiveness to industry needs, align with Red Seal standards, and improve the quality of apprentice training and safety. Go HERE for more information Source Read More…


Changing Scene