Last week, Ontario Premier Doug Ford visited Niagara, where he announced over $13 million in support of cutting-edge skills training for high-in-demand jobs.
The resources, which will be delivered through the Skills Development Fund Training Stream, will assist more than 9,000 current and prospective workers in skilled trades related professions, by helping them ready for the jobs of the future.
“The investments we are announcing today will help workers across Niagara get the skills and training they need to find good-paying jobs and support a growing economy,” said Ford.
“By investing in workers, we are helping protect their jobs and futures, and helping Ontario stand up to President Trump’s tariffs and anything else that might come our way.”
This year has been defined thus far by a plethora of economic risks brought about by Trump’s trade war, as well as a volatile geopolitical environment complicating supply chain logistics.
In addition to serving as a major investment for the local economy, Ford’s announcement yet again demonstrates the high prioritization that the Ontario government has placed on building up the skilled trades.
In pursuit of this objective, the government is working collaboratively with local partner organizations, such as the Niagara Home Builders’ Association, to enhance training opportunities for pertinent industries that have been negatively impacted by Trump’s tariff threat.
“Both the Niagara Home Builders’ Association and our education partner, Niagara College, are incredibly grateful to the province for once again investing in training that continues to prepare students with the skills that they need to work their way toward building a stable career, creating a stronger workforce and preparing more Niagara residents for meaningful, in-demand careers,” said Niagara Home Builders’ Association CEO Chuck McShane.
Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff, who accompanied Ford at the Niagara Falls event, hailed the announcement as an essential step to “help secure our future by providing opportunities for good jobs and careers with secure paycheques.”
“In a border community like Niagara, these regional investments through the Skills Development Fund are critical to help protect local workers and job creators,” he said.
The Skills Development Fund was originally forged in 2021. In the years following its introduction, the fund has played an important role in helping over 500,000 people access the training they need for lucrative jobs.
In Budget 2025, the Ontario government shared that the Skills Development Fund will receive another $1 billion for strategic investments in high demand fields, bringing the complete value of fund investments to $2.5 billion.
“This government is stepping up to protect Ontario workers,” said Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini, who also attended Ford’s announcement last week.
“We are meeting the moment of economic uncertainty with bold and decisive action. That means investing in the skills and training that empower our world-class workforce to not only persevere in the face of adversity, but to build a stronger, more resilient Ontario.”
Those interested in learning more about the Skills Development Fund Training Stream are invited to do so at the following link: Skills Development Fund Training Stream.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
