Province invests $500K to support local skills training in automotive industry

ZF Automotive Manufacturing in Midland, Ont.

Jill Dunlop, Simcoe North MPP, announced a substantial investment on Thursday to train locals who are interested in working in the automotive industry.

In a news release, Dunlop confirmed that the province is investing nearly $500,000 to help Simcoe North residents get the skills they need to land ‘good-paying, in-demand’ jobs in the industry.

The funding is sourced from the province’s Skills Development Fund (SDF).

“As MPP for Simcoe North, I’m proud to support the Ontario government’s investment through Round 5 of the Skills Development Fund,” said Dunlop in the news release. “This substantial funding will empower Masterful Tec in Midland to expand their registered apprenticeship program, giving more people the opportunity to gain in-demand skills and build rewarding careers in the skilled trades. Investments like this are crucial for growing our local workforce, supporting businesses, and strengthening our economy for the future.”

The province says its SDF training stream is available for applicants that include employers, industry associations, labour unions, hospitals, and others.

ZF, a tech company that supplies systems for passenger and commercial vehicles, has a branch in Midland and helped develop the Masterful Tec program.

“The Masterful Tec registered apprentice program has been developed by ZF Lifetec in Midland to meet current and future labour market challenges and introduces a hybrid program that integrates traditional time-based and technology on the job learning and competency-based education, which allows workers to progress at their own pace”, said Gail Gillian from ZF Lifetec in Midland. “The long-term impact and effectiveness of this program will not only equip apprentices with essential skills for their current roles but also foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability for the future.”

The province adds that its SDF has helped connect more than 500,000 jobseekers find good-paying and fulfilling careers close to home.