Province announces $12.9M investment for skills training in Waterloo Region

Ontario Premier Doug Ford was in Waterloo Region to make a major funding announcement. CTV’s Karis Mapp explains why he’s tapping into the trades.

Premier Doug Ford stopped by AirBoss Rubber Solutions in Kitchener on Tuesday to announce $12.9 million in funding for skills training in the Region of Waterloo.

The investment was partly in response to Canada’s ongoing trade war with the U.S.

“President [Donald] Trump is taking direct aim at our economy, targeting workers and business,” Ford said at the media event. “That’s why our government is doubling down on our plan to protect Ontario.”

The funding is expected to help more than 50,000 workers and students upgrade their current skill set or get the training they need for a competitive job market.

AirBoss Rubber Solutions on Glasgow Street was one the companies getting part of the $12.9 million investment. The province said the manufacturer will receive $829,000 to teach workers forklift operation, as well as other tasks, through its Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream.

The rest of the $12.9 million will be split between nine other local organizations.

• Canadian Tooling & Machining Association in Cambridge will get $2,250,000 to create experiential work placements in the precision metalworking industry, including opportunities for youth from underrepresented groups.
• Blue Branch, based in Burlington, will get $1,660,000 to train youth and newcomers in modular housing construction with a six-week program in Cambridge.
• Medical Innovation Xchange (MIX) in Kitchener will get $1,500,000 to provide skills training in the life science and innovation sectors, with hands-on training, mentorship and lab experience. (Part of a partnership with the University of Waterloo.)
• Grand Valley Construction Association in Cambridge will get $1,492,900 for safety training, professional development and job placements for participants in Waterloo, Brant and Wellington.
• Knowledgehook’s office in Kitchener will get $1,478,300 to improve the math skills of students and educators, ranging from kindergarten to Grade 12.
• Delta Elevator Company Ltd. in Kitchener will get $1,158,500 to provide advanced electrical training for an Elevating Devices Mechanic Apprenticeship.
• Advance Millwrights Inc. in Elmira will get $1,000,000 to provide hands-on training for certifications with the Canadian Welding Bureau and Technical Standards and Safety Authority.
• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 804 in Breslau will get $832,000 to support new apprentices through classroom instruction, certifications and mentored job placements in the Waterloo area.
• Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC), based in Cambridge, will get $723,600 to expand its Group Sponsorship Grant program, helping new apprentices and employers across nine skilled trades.

Ford said the funding would pave a path for the future.

“Our plan to protect Ontario will make our province the most competitive, most resilient, most self-reliant economy in the G7,” he insisted. “We’re going to attract new jobs and investment and protect our workers.”

Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic, who attended Tuesday’s announcement, praised the province’s support.

“It’s a declaration of confidence in our workforce and a recognition of the resilience and ingenuity that defines Kitchener and Waterloo Region,” he said. “Whether you’re a student just starting out, a worker looking to upskill or an employer seeking talent, this investment opens doors to opportunity and stability.”

The mayor also felt the investment sent a strong message to the community.

“Ontario is standing strong with its workers,” Vrbanovic explained. “The province is ensuring that the people of this area have the tools to adapt, grow and succeed no matter what challenges come our way. Let me be clear today is not just about jobs. It’s about dignity, security and the promise of a better tomorrow. It’s about building a Kitchener where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to contribute, to grow and to succeed.”