Ontario to invest $3.7M for shipbuilders in Hamilton, Port Weller

The Ontario government is investing $3.7 million to provide training for 300 shipyard workers, apprentices and job seekers in Hamilton and Port Weller.

Premier Doug Ford says this investment will ensure that Ontario workers have the skills needed to fill labour shortages in manufacturing industries.

Labour Minister Monte McNaughton says Ontario will need over 100,000 additional workers in the skilled trades.

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Led by Heddle Shipyards, new and existing workers will be trained for things like ship repair, safety knowledge, professional development and leadership training.

The training lasts for 12 months and includes courses for jobs like electricians, millwrights, and welders.

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The project aims to increase job opportunities for under-represented groups in the industry such as women and youth. It will also include mental health support.

The project is funded by the government’s Skills Development Fund. It is an over $700-million initiative that connects job seekers with the skills and training they need.

In addition to the $3.7 million, the government is also investing $224 million for the province to build new training centres and upgrade their old ones.