ONTARIO-The governments of Ontario and Canada say they are partnering to invest more than $203,000 through the Canada-Ontario Workforce Tariff Response to help protect steel and manufacturing workers in the Hamilton area.
The funding will help 75 workers and jobseekers upgrade their skills, transition to in-demand careers. Hundreds of Stelco workers in Hamilton were recently laid off.
“Ontario is fighting back against President Trump’s attacks on our economy by helping our workers retrain, upskill and stay competitive,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “These investments are giving workers the skills they need to succeed, helping employers find the talent they need to grow and strengthening the industries that keep our communities moving. The best response to tariffs is a stronger Ontario economy, and that is exactly what we are building.”
Ontario will deliver the funding through Skills Advance Ontario, which partners with employers and training providers to help workers transition into in-demand careers. Delivered by Learning Connections Hamilton through its Skill Pathways for Work project, the training will provide participants with skills assessments, individualized training plans, digital skills upgrading, training referrals, case management and support accessing certifications and short-term training required for employment.
“For generations, workers in Hamilton’s steel and manufacturing sector have helped build a stronger Canada. At a time of global economic uncertainty and trade disruptions, we will be there to help them navigate what comes next,” said Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. “The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario are helping workers access training that connects them to jobs, builds new skills and seize new opportunities. Together, we are ensuring workers can prosper today, while positioning them to lead in tomorrow’s economy.”
Workers affected by layoffs and economic disruption in Hamilton can also access free employment services to help with job searches, career planning and skills development. Through Better Jobs Ontario, eligible workers can receive up to $35,000 in financial support for skills training programs of up to two years, helping them retrain for in-demand careers and transition to new employment opportunities.
