Thunder Bay – NEWS – Ontario is helping build a stronger, more highly skilled construction workforce in the North. “It is imperative that our province and the trades industry have a properly trained, highly skilled, modern workforce from which to draw upon. By supporting projects such as the construction of the Carpenters’ Local 1669’s new training facility in Thunder Bay, we are achieving that goal while helping retain highly skilled workers in the northwest,” stated Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the NOHFC.
Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario have been witnessing a growing shortage of skilled tradespersons. Many of the trades are seeking workers, and those workers need specialized training. David Karimi of Finn Way the General Contractor for the training facility says that “There is a definite shortage of skilled trades persons in Thunder Bay. This new facility will help make a big difference”.
Finn Way General Contractors is one of Thunder Bay’s top construction companies, and are currently completing another project on Simpson Street, the NorWest Community Health Centre which is one of the first structures in Thunder Bay build with a wood frame as allowed under legislation that Minister Bill Mauro shepherded through Queen’s Park.
“I am pleased about our province’s commitment to ensuring that employers have access to the skilled labour force needed for economic growth and prosperity. Having up-to-date infrastructure and equipment is critical for attracting and training our future carpenters. I commend Carpenters’ Local 1669 on its vision to build a training centre and commitment to support the training needs of its members,” commented Minister of Municipal Affairs and MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikona Bill Mauro.
“The Carpenters’ Local 1669 Training Centre is committed to investing in construction trades training and having a highly-skilled workforce here in the northwest. We thank the province and the NOHFC for sharing in this vision. Projects completed safely, injury free, on time and on budget will benefit all and strengthen northwestern Ontario’s economy and construction industry,” shared Wayne Sohlman, President, Carpenters’ Local 1669.
The province is investing $1 million through its Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to relocate the Carpenters’ Local 1669 Training Centre to the Innova Business Park in Thunder Bay and construct a state-of-the-art training facility.
The new building will have two classrooms, an open workshop space as well as common areas and offices. It will also offer a modern, updated skills curriculum and courses with specialized equipment. The facility will help meet the demand for skilled tradespeople and construction trades training, connecting workers with good jobs and growing the Northern economy.
Investing in training and skills development is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario’s history and is investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.
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