Toronto Pearson Airport in Mississauga is set to fill approximately 450 in-demand positions, bolstered by a $2 million investment from the Ontario government’s Skills Development Fund. This funding will support the “Pearson Works” training project, designed to recruit, train, and upskill a diverse workforce for Canada’s largest and busiest airport. The initiative comes as over 400 employers at Pearson face a significant need for additional staff to maintain competitiveness, especially in light of ongoing economic uncertainty and the airport’s ambitious expansion plans.
Premier Doug Ford emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to skills development, highlighting that the $2.5 billion investment aims to empower Ontario workers, including those at Pearson, against economic pressures. The $2 million specifically targets a range of critical roles including hospitality, ramp and baggage handling, safety and security, general labour, and customer service. The program is designed to create direct pathways to employment for participants.
Deborah Flint, President and CEO of Toronto Pearson, underscored the importance of this investment for both future airport workers and regional economic growth through job creation. David Piccini, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for a “world-class workforce” to support Canada’s international transportation hubs and global trade.
Since its launch in 2021, Ontario’s Skills Development Fund has connected over half a million job seekers with training opportunities, aiming for “better jobs with bigger pay cheques.” This latest investment at Pearson is part of a broader strategy to ensure the province’s workforce is equipped to meet evolving demands and contribute to sustained economic growth.