Funding will support women, youth and underrepresented groups while modernizing training facilities for high-demand careers
WINDSOR, Ont. — The Ontario government is investing more than $2.2 million in Windsor to expand access to apprenticeship training and upgrade skilled trades education facilities, as the province works to address growing labour shortages and prepare workers for careers in construction, manufacturing and industrial sectors.
Announced by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, the funding will support three local organizations and help approximately 80 individuals gain the skills and experience needed to enter in-demand skilled trades occupations. The investment forms part of Ontario’s broader strategy to strengthen its workforce and support the province’s long-term infrastructure and economic development plans.
Ontario officials say the funding will help ensure workers are equipped with modern training, industry-standard technology and practical experience required by employers across the province.
“Ontario’s future depends on having the skilled workers needed to build it,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Our government is taking action by expanding opportunities for people in Windsor to start rewarding careers in the skilled trades. By investing in hands-on apprenticeship training, modern equipment and pathways into in-demand careers, we are helping more people, including women, youth and other underrepresented groups, develop the skills employers need while strengthening Ontario’s workforce for the future.”
Funding Targets Women, Youth and Emerging Trades Workers
The largest share of the funding will go to Women’s Enterprise Skills Training (WEST) of Windsor, which will receive more than $1.56 million through Ontario’s Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program. The funding will support training for 60 women pursuing careers in industrial electrician, electrician construction and maintenance, refrigeration and air conditioning, sheet metal and cement finishing trades.
The initiative is designed to increase participation by women in sectors where they have traditionally been underrepresented while helping employers address workforce shortages.
St. Clair College will receive more than $641,000 in combined funding. Of that amount, $291,065 will be used through the Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program to train 20 participants, primarily youth and individuals from underrepresented groups, for careers in tool and die making.
The college will also receive $350,000 through the Apprenticeship Capital Grant to upgrade its Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining equipment and controls, allowing students to train using technology aligned with current industry standards.
Meanwhile, the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers will receive $53,720 through the Apprenticeship Capital Grant to purchase robotic surveying and monitoring technology. The equipment will provide apprentices with hands-on experience using advanced technologies increasingly employed across Ontario’s construction industry.
Addressing Ontario’s Growing Skilled Labour Demand
The investment comes as Ontario faces significant labour market challenges. Provincial forecasts indicate that more than 400,000 workers will be needed to fill skilled trades-related positions over the next decade due to retirements and continued job growth.
By 2034, approximately one in six job openings in Ontario is expected to be related to the skilled trades. In the construction sector alone, nearly 75,000 workers will be required to meet projected demand.
The Windsor-area funding announcement aligns with broader provincial investments aimed at expanding workforce development. Through Budget 2025, Ontario committed $75 million to train up to 7,800 additional students for construction and urban planning careers. More recently, the government announced $1.7 billion to support 70,000 additional post-secondary seats in high-demand programs, including skilled trades training.
Local Leaders Welcome Investment
Provincial and local leaders welcomed the funding, emphasizing its role in supporting economic growth and workforce development.
“In the face of economic uncertainty, our government is training the next generation of skilled trades workers to build a stronger, more self-reliant Ontario. Through this investment, we are ensuring that apprentices at St. Clair College have the modern tools and equipment they need to get good-paying skilled trade jobs that protect Ontario,” said The Honourable Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens highlighted the importance of skilled labour to the region’s economic competitiveness.
“Windsor has built its reputation on the strength of its highly skilled workforce and investments like these help ensure that legacy continues for the next generation,” Dilkens said, noting that expanded apprenticeship opportunities and upgraded training facilities will help attract investment and support local employers.
Michael Silvaggi, President of St. Clair College, said the funding will strengthen the institution’s ability to prepare students for careers in the automotive, aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors.
Rose Anguiano Hurst of WEST said the investment will help remove barriers for women entering the trades and expand opportunities in industries where female representation remains low.
Building a Future Workforce
Ontario officials say the Windsor funding announcement reflects the province’s broader commitment to workforce development and infrastructure growth. With billions of dollars being invested in transportation, housing, healthcare and other major projects, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled workers has become a key economic priority.
By expanding apprenticeship opportunities and modernizing training environments, the province aims to connect more Ontarians with stable, well-paying careers while helping employers secure the talent needed to meet future demand.