A Cambridge training centre for unionized construction workers is getting an $8.8 million boost through the province’s Skills Development Fund Capital Stream to expand the union's Industrial Road facility. Once complete in 2026, the facility will train an additional 5,000 workers over the next five years.
"This investment makes a real difference for Cambridge," said Cambridge MPP Brian Riddell at today's announcement. "As our city continues to grow so does our demand for skilled workers."
Riddell said the increased training capacity will directly benefit the construction and concrete industries.
Construction underway at the Labourers International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 837’s training centre will add a 23,791-square-foot, one-story addition that will include a heavy equipment lab, three offices, a simulator, storage and two washrooms.
Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini was in town to make the announcement.
Piccini says not only will the investment enhance capacity and infrastructure at the facility, but help open doors for under-represented groups wanting to get into skilled trades.
"For too long, we ignored training centres in every community," Piccini said, adding the old notion that the only training that takes place is in post-secondary classrooms should be forgotten. "We know that training is everywhere around us. Earn while you learn, continuing professional development is something we have to embrace."
In addition to training construction and concrete workers, the expanded facility will train Red Seal apprentices in the Construction Craft Worker and Concrete Finisher trades.
A Red Seal endorsement on a provincial trade certificate indicates a high level of knowledge and skill, which are valued by employers, and helps jobseekers land rewarding jobs in the skilled trades.