KITCHENER – Ontario is directing more than $12.9 million toward workforce training programs in Waterloo Region, a move the provincial government says will help over 50,000 people prepare for jobs in high-demand sectors as local industries brace for the effects of new U.S. tariffs.
Premier Doug Ford announced the funding Tuesday at AirBoss Rubber Solutions in Kitchener, where the manufacturer will receive $829,000 to provide skills training, including forklift operation, for its workers. The investment forms part of the Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream, which has been expanded to $2.5 billion to support workers facing economic disruption.
“The investments we are announcing today will help more than 50,000 workers and students in Waterloo Region get the skills and training they need to remain on the job, no matter what comes our way from President Trump’s tariffs,” said Ford. “By making sure people have the tools and training to succeed, we’re protecting paycheques, supporting local employers and building a stronger, more competitive Ontario economy.”
Broad Training Support Across Sectors
In addition to AirBoss, nine other organizations in Waterloo Region and surrounding communities will receive funding for training initiatives. The Canadian Tooling & Machining Association has been awarded $2.25 million to provide experiential work placements in the precision metalworking industry, with a focus on youth from underrepresented groups. Blue Branch will use $1.66 million to train young people and newcomers in modular housing construction through a six-week program in Cambridge.
Medical Innovation Xchange (MIX) is receiving $1.5 million to upskill participants in life sciences and innovation, in partnership with the University of Waterloo. The Grand Valley Construction Association will use $1.49 million to deliver safety training, professional development, and job placements across Waterloo, Brant, and Wellington.
Other recipients include Knowledgehook ($1.48 million) to strengthen math skills for students and educators, Delta Elevator Company Ltd. ($1.16 million) to expand electrical training for apprentices, and Advance Millwrights Inc. ($1 million) to fund certifications in welding and safety standards.
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 804 will receive $832,000 for new apprentice training, while the Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC) is being granted $723,600 to grow its Group Sponsorship Grant program across nine skilled trades.
Government Positioning on Workforce Resilience
Labour Minister David Piccini said the investments reflect a long-term strategy to shield Ontario workers from economic headwinds. “Our government is taking strong, decisive action to build and protect the future of Ontario’s workforce,” Piccini said. “We continue to face global economic challenges and these investments will help tens of thousands of people gain the in-demand skills and experience they need to succeed, while supporting local employers and strengthening our economy for years to come.”
Since its launch in 2021, the Skills Development Fund has supported more than one million workers through $1.5 billion in training programs. With the additional $1 billion announced in the 2025 provincial budget, total SDF investment now sits at $2.5 billion.
Local Leaders Welcome Provincial Investment
Local officials and industry leaders in Waterloo Region welcomed the funding as a timely boost to both workers and businesses.
“Our government is stepping up to protect and strengthen our local economy by equipping more than 50,000 individuals with the skills they need for good-paying, in-demand jobs,” said Mike Harris, MPP for Kitchener—Conestoga.
“This government’s latest local investment via the Skills Development Fund is crucial for preparing smart, hardworking Ontarians for in-demand careers,” added Jess Dixon, MPP for Kitchener South—Hespeler. “Our region is a centre of manufacturing and trades excellence and I’m thrilled to stand with our government to recognize and support the incredible talent we have here.”
Cambridge MPP Brian Riddell called the investment “a game-changer for the people of Waterloo Region, helping thousands gain the skills they need to thrive in high-demand careers.”
Regional and municipal leaders echoed that view. “This new investment in the Region’s Grand Valley Construction Association Pathways to Employment Program will make a real difference in the lives of program participants,” said Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo. Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic noted the pressures from U.S. tariffs, saying the funds “are more crucial than ever to protect our economy and support local businesses.”
Industry Partners Highlight Workforce Benefits
Business leaders said the funding will allow them to better prepare workers for technological change and industry demands.
Chris Bitsakakis, President and Co-CEO of AirBoss of America Corp., said the SDF investment “affirms our shared commitment to building a resilient and inclusive workforce,” while Robert Cattle of the Canadian Tooling & Machining Association emphasized its impact on apprenticeships and high school training programs.
Blue Branch CEO Todd Clyde said the support will give 50 Cambridge students practical construction experience while earning certifications in trades. Elliot Fung, Executive Director of MIX, noted that the funding “strengthens Ontario’s position as a global leader in health innovation by building local talent and expertise.”
From construction to electrical trades, industry associations said the funding would deliver long-term benefits by matching trained workers with employers in need of skilled staff. “Graduates of our JRT Program are matched with contractors from day one,” said Peter Caesar of IBEW 804, adding the initiative creates “a direct route into a secure future.”
Skills Development as Economic Strategy
The funding underscores Ontario’s strategy of using workforce development as a shield against international trade volatility. As U.S. tariffs increase uncertainty for key industries, provincial leaders are betting that targeted training programs will help employers weather the storm while strengthening Ontario’s long-term economic competitiveness.
