NEWMARKET, Ontario — November 10, 2026 — The Ontario government has announced an investment of more than $1.5 million to provide specialized construction training for 140 workers and jobseekers in Newmarket, as the province works to address skilled labour shortages and support major infrastructure development.
The funding, delivered through the sixth round of Ontario’s Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream, will support technical instruction, workplace safety education and leadership development for individuals pursuing careers in high-demand construction trades.
The initiative is intended to strengthen Ontario’s construction workforce while helping employers secure qualified workers for projects involving highways, hospitals and other essential infrastructure.
Bird Infrastructure to Deliver Specialized Construction Training
The investment will support the Integrated Craftsmanship and Complex Project Training Program, led by Newmarket-based Bird Infrastructure Ltd.
The program combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training in mechanical craftsmanship, rigging and hoisting, leadership and mentorship.
Participants will develop skills applicable to several construction occupations, including plumbing, welding, steam fitting, pipefitting, sheet metal work and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC).
“Ontario’s construction workers deserve every opportunity to succeed in their careers and return home safely to their families,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “By investing in hands-on training, mentorship and workplace safety, we’re inspiring the next generation of skilled workers, helping experienced tradespeople take the next step in their careers and giving them the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”
The initiative will also provide opportunities for experienced tradespeople to strengthen their technical expertise and prepare for supervisory responsibilities.
Industry Partnership Focuses on Workforce Development
Bird Infrastructure will oversee the training initiative, bringing industry experience into the delivery of practical instruction.
“Bird Infrastructure is both fortunate and proud to be able to collaborate with Ontario’s Government in this venture,” said Brandon Bird, Chief Executive Officer of Bird Infrastructure Inc. “The SDF grant enhances our capacity to develop the capable and resilient teams that can strengthen Ontario’s workforce.”
The partnership reflects the province’s approach to connecting government-funded training with employers seeking skilled workers for complex construction projects.
Ontario Strengthens Oversight of Skills Development Funding
The latest funding announcement follows changes to the SDF Training Stream designed to improve accountability, transparency and program evaluation.
According to the province, Round 6 projects were selected through a strengthened assessment process aligned with recommendations from the Auditor General’s 2025 program review.
The revised framework includes monitoring employment outcomes three, six and 12 months after training completion.
Applicants must also disclose their use of registered lobbyists and consultants, with information checked against Ontario’s Lobbyists Registry.
Additional measures include more rigorous project screening, risk assessments and due diligence involving individuals associated with funding applications.
These changes are intended to strengthen oversight and provide clearer evidence of how publicly funded training contributes to employment outcomes.
Construction Training Supports Broader Provincial Investment
Ontario reports that the first five rounds of the SDF Training Stream supported more than 1,000 training projects aimed at helping over 700,000 workers develop skills for high-demand occupations.
More than 120,000 participants found employment within 60 days of completing their programs, according to provincial figures.
In Round 5 alone, more than 18,000 participants secured employment, while over 72,000 upgraded their skills.
Across Rounds 1 through 6, Ontario has invested more than $660 million in 479 projects targeting construction, with a combined goal of supporting over 221,000 participants.
Within the Greater Toronto Area, the province invested $702.3 million through Rounds 1 to 5 in 486 projects intended to support 308,725 people.
Newmarket Investment Expected to Expand Skilled Trades Opportunities
The Newmarket program is expected to provide local workers and jobseekers with additional pathways into construction employment and career advancement.
“This investment represents an important opportunity for Newmarket—Aurora, helping local workers and jobseekers build rewarding, good-paying careers in the skilled trades,” said Dawn Gallagher Murphy, Member of Provincial Parliament for Newmarket—Aurora. “With more than $1.5 million in funding supporting training for 140 participants, the Ontario government is helping people gain the skills, experience and confidence they need to access in-demand jobs and advance in their careers. I am proud to see Bird Infrastructure, a company based right here in Newmarket, playing a leading role in strengthening our local workforce, supporting economic growth and ensuring our community can benefit from the opportunities created as Ontario continues to build.”
The sixth round of the SDF Training Stream is funded exclusively by the Ontario government.
Individuals interested in participating in the Newmarket training program are encouraged to contact Bird Infrastructure directly for information about eligibility and enrolment.
The investment forms part of Ontario’s broader workforce development strategy, linking specialized skills training with construction industry demand and long-term infrastructure priorities.
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