The Ontario government is investing $23 million to upskill more than 4,200 workers in Mississauga and surrounding areas, preparing them for better-paying jobs in sectors hit hardest by U.S. tariffs, including construction, health care, transportation, aerospace, manufacturing, and the skilled trades.
Premier Doug Ford made the announcement Wednesday at the Ontario Masonry Training Centre in Mississauga, which will receive $1.1 million to train workers in brick, stone, and masonry trades through flexible, hands-on learning. “With President Trump’s tariffs taking direct aim at our economy and workers, we are investing record amounts to protect Ontario workers and keep them on the job,” Ford said.
The funding comes through the province’s Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream, designed to equip workers with tools for long-term career growth and keep Ontario competitive. Labour Minister David Piccini added that the programs are tailored to “bridge skills gaps and help workers succeed,” from young people entering trades to health-care workers upgrading their qualifications.
Thirteen additional organizations in Mississauga and surrounding communities will also receive support, including:
- Achēv – $677,863 to train 132 participants for senior care roles and $509,772 for a youth trades project with Humber College.
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Association of Ontario – $2.5M to upskill 177 participants and engage 1,500 youth in aerospace careers.
- Bothwell-Accurate Inc. – $2.5M to train 235 construction workers in safety, trades, and management.
- Canadian Association of Women in Construction – $460K to support 100 women in the industry.
- Canadian Flatbeds Ltd. – $600K for simulator-based safety training for 150 truck drivers.
- Closing the Gap Healthcare – $2.4M to train 125 workers for careers in home and community care with paid placements and guaranteed jobs.
- Concrete Ontario – $150K to develop standardized, low-carbon concrete delivery training, with a focus on youth, women, and Indigenous peoples.
- NETCO – $2.9M to upskill 550 apprentices and journeypersons in electrical trades using VR and modern tech.
- Ontario Electrical Industry Training Trust Fund – $2.6M to train 95 in the Network Cabling Specialist trade with paid job placements.
- Ontario Harness Horse Association – $2.37M to train 160 people for equine industry careers.
- Ontario Road Builders’ Association – $1.83M to prepare 200 workers for road construction and infrastructure jobs.
- Pinball Clemons Foundation – $1.62M to support 200 youth with mentorship, training, and placements.
- Sovereign Construction Management Ltd. – $750K to train 500 people in civil engineering, construction, and heavy equipment operation.
Ford said these investments will not only strengthen Ontario’s workforce but also help safeguard the economy against external pressures while creating real opportunities for residents.