Ontario investing $64.2 in skilled trades apprentices

The Ontario government is investing $64.2 million over the next three years to expand in-class apprenticeship training to help more apprentices across the province gain the skills they need to land rewarding careers in the skilled trades.

“We need to keep building, no matter what global challenges come our way, to deliver on our $200 billion plan to build more infrastructure like highways, hospitals and schools,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “By expanding access to in-class training and removing barriers, we’re helping more apprentices gain the skills they need for good-paying jobs, while protecting them in the face of U.S. tariffs.”

This investment, through the In-Class Enhancement Fund (IEF), is expected to create up to 4,000 new training seats annually, aiming to help apprentices access in-class training more quickly while covering their $10-per-day Level 1 classroom fees.

“Whether it is schools, highways, or hospitals, our province’s skilled trades workers are building the critical infrastructure that strengthens our communities and protects Ontario,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Through this investment, our government is ensuring that apprentices get the education, training and skills they need to get rewarding, good-paying jobs that will build the Ontario of tomorrow.”

As part of a broader strategy to address the need for skilled trades, the Ontario government says it is also examining ways to increase apprenticeship hiring on publicly funded infrastructure projects and construction sites. In addition, the government says it is working with Skilled Trades Ontario to expand testing, allowing apprentices to book Certificate of Qualification exams at certified testing centres closer to home, choosing the date, time and location that works best for them. This means less travel, less time away from work and more opportunities for apprentices to get certified and advance their careers.

The IEF is part of the $159.3 million commitment announced in the 2025 Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario to strengthen skilled trades programs. It builds on the government’s broader strategy to train and attract workers for in-demand jobs.