Upskill for tomorrow’s jobs

As part of the $115 million Skills Development Fund, the government of Ontario has announced an investment of $690,000 to provide a new, free training program to 260 manufacturing employees in the province to upgrade productivity, health and safety in the workplace, and supply chain strength.

“The pandemic has shown us the importance of adapting quickly to meet unexpected challenges. This investment will help vital workers gain the skills they need so they can confidently face new challenges and continue to thrive,” said Monte McNaughton, minister of labour, training and skills development.

The program is available to eligible Ontario employees at any manufacturing business at no cost. Courses will be offered as an in person and virtual format depending on employer and/or employee preference.

Free Ontario Training Program

Administered by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), the program will enhance via training eligible manufacturing job roles to help the sector adapt and adopt new processes, equipment, and operations to take on new and ongoing challenges triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first round of manufacturing training already has begun as the new program received more than 500 applications within the first month. An official second application intake is planned for later in 2021, but open applications are being accepted on an ongoing basis.

“This government funding will enable CME to deliver free training to manufacturers across Ontario and help them network with other manufacturers through a series of industry peer councils,” said Mathew Wilson, senior vice-president of government relations and policy, CME.

Manufacturing employers and employees interested in applying for free training to upskill their jobs can receive more information and apply by contacting John Rodic from CME at john.rodic@cme-mec.ca.

Alena Barreca is marketing co-ordinator at Mentor Works, 28 Bett Court, Unit B, Guelph, Ont. N1C 1B9, 888-599-3111, www.mentorworks.ca.