The Ontario government will invest more than $13 million to train over 1,000 workers and jobseekers in Sudbury and surrounding areas for jobs in boilermaking, welding, mining and ironworking.
The funding comes through the Skills Development Fund and aims to prepare workers for in-demand jobs while keeping Ontario competitive amid U.S. tariffs. The investment brings Ontario’s total Skills Development Fund investment in Northern Ontario to nearly $146 million.
“To compete globally and secure our future, we must ensure Northern Ontario is ready to deliver the critical minerals and energy the world relies on,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
Boilermakers union gets largest share
The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local 128 will receive $5.7 million to buy new equipment for their Burlington training centre and build a new facility in Sudbury. This will double the union’s capacity to train more than 660 new apprentices and journeypersons for jobs in energy and construction.
Workers will receive safety certifications and training on telehandlers and elevated work platforms.
“Today’s announcement is evidence of the strong relationships that have been built between our union and the Ontario government,” said Stirling Munn, business manager and secretary treasurer of Boilermakers Local 128.
Four other organizations receive funding
Agnico Eagle Mines Limited will get $5 million to provide on-the-job training and employment in critical mining occupations across Northern Ontario.
UBC Millwrights Local 1425 will receive $1.07 million to expand mobile welding training in Sudbury, Timmins and Sault Ste. Marie.
Ironworkers Local 786 will get $890,587 to upgrade training equipment and expand programming in Sudbury.
Northern Centre for Advanced Technology Inc. will receive $580,000 to develop virtual reality training modules for mining, construction and forestry workers.
Part of larger provincial strategy
Since 2021, Ontario has invested $1.5 billion through the Skills Development Fund to train more than one million workers. The government plans to add another $1 billion over the next three years, bringing the total to $2.5 billion.
“Our government remains committed to strengthening and protecting Northern Ontario. Through this Skills Development Fund investment, we are focused on enhancing training opportunities for skilled trades workers and ensuring their talent stays right here in the North,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth.
The funding targets sectors affected by U.S. tariffs and policies while building Ontario’s workforce capacity in critical areas.
