Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop is hoping women will take advantage of an investment in training that the province expects will fill gaps in skilled trades.
The province announced Monday a commitment of $180.5 million, over three years, for training to help workers prepare for possible careers in the trades.
“Women are overrepresented in areas such as tourism and retail,” she said, noting those sectors have been hit hard during the pandemic. “There’s an opportunity for women who may have been laid off to transition to other careers.”
The jobs are there, as the shortage in skilled trades workers has only increased during the pandemic. Those who complete the necessary training are pretty much guaranteed a job in the trades, she noted.
“There are thousands of jobs sitting there empty,” Dunlop said, adding some companies are having to turn down jobs and contracts because of the lack of workers. “They’ll be able to be trained in this region and keep jobs in this area.”
Boosting the profile of skilled trades has been one of Dunlop’s main focuses since she was elected. She has heard from various people in the sector who share her concerns. That consultation helped shape the plan that was announced Monday.
“People are thrilled that this government is talking about trades and putting an emphasis on it,” she said.
“It’s about working with the different trade sectors and colleges as well,” she added.
The educational paths to many jobs are understood well, “but to become a plumber, for example, it’s not as well known,” Dunlop said.
The province and schools are trying to change that. That effort includes introducing trades education at the elementary school level.
The next decade will be critical, as many tradespeople will be retiring.
“We need young people to fill those needs,” Dunlop said. “They’re rewarding careers … and they’re good-paying jobs, too.”
The funding announced Monday is part of Ontario’s Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover. In addition to the skilled trades strategy, it includes $100 million to help with skills training through Employment Ontario.
It was unclear Monday how much of the funding would go directly toward training in Simcoe North.
