The Ontario government is rolling out new measures to encourage more young people to pursue careers in skilled trades such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. This initiative includes the introduction of a new apprenticeship pathway and an online job platform. These efforts aim to highlight the benefits of skilled trades to young people and workers, guiding them towards stable and well-paying jobs.
David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, expressed the government’s commitment to addressing the labor shortage by making it easier for Ontarians to discover apprenticeship opportunities and pursue higher-paying jobs. He noted that these new paths are intended to prepare today’s learners for tomorrow’s workforce demands.
The government plans to meet the increasing need for skilled labor in construction and manufacturing by ensuring that Ontario has a ready pool of tradespeople for future projects. An enhancement to the existing Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) will see the creation of the Focused Apprenticeship Skills Training (FAST). This program will allow high school students in Grades 11 and 12 to earn additional co-op education credits, with successful graduates receiving a special seal on their diplomas to recognize their efforts in skilled trades learning.
Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, added that the province is focusing on core learning by limiting distractions such as cell phones and social media in schools and banning vaping. He highlighted the new FAST program that will enable students to spend up to 80% of their final school years in co-op education, thereby speeding up their entry into skilled trades. Starting this September, all students will also be required to take at least one Technological Education course.
The province also plans to launch an online job-matching portal, a first-of-its-kind in Ontario, to connect apprentices, journeypersons, and employers. This platform will make it easier for individuals seeking apprenticeships to find opportunities and begin their training.
Making it easier for Ontario students and adults to find apprenticeship opportunities and creating more mentorship opportunities for women is welcome news for Brampton. We are a city with a talented workforce focused on building our community and positioning our city for success. Connecting our workers, and those across the province, with better career prospects helps us achieve the common goal of securing a better future for all.
– Patrick Brown
Mayor of Brampton
Furthermore, the government is proposing new laws to make apprenticeship more accessible to individuals who have work experience but lack the formal academic credentials typically required. These individuals could qualify for apprenticeship through alternative criteria based on their work history and time out of high school.
These proposed measures are part of a broader strategy to improve worker health and safety, impose stricter penalties on unfair employers, and simplify the process of starting a career in the trades. By prioritizing the workforce, the government aims to ensure Ontario remains an excellent place to live, work, and raise a family.
