A new skilled trades training centre is coming to Port Hope with $9.8 million in funding from the Ontario government.
The province says the facility will help train 2,550 millwright apprentices, journeypersons and new entrants over the next five years, supporting demand for skilled workers in the energy, manufacturing, construction and industrial sectors.
The funding is being provided through Ontario’s Skills Development Fund Capital Stream.
Led by UBC Millwright Local 2309, the new 44,986-square-foot training centre will provide both classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
Training will cover millwright skills including welding, rigging, alignment and industrial maintenance. Participants will also be able to earn certifications in areas such as working at heights, confined spaces and equipment operation.
The centre will feature industry-standard equipment and technologies, including turbines, conveyor systems, welding equipment and robotics.
Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Minister, and Northumberland-Peterborough South MPP, David Piccini says the investment is intended to prepare workers for jobs supporting some of Ontario’s key industries.
“This new training centre will prepare more workers with the skills employers need to build, maintain and modernize the projects that will power our province and fuel economic growth for decades,” Piccini said.
John Baker, business manager of UBC Millwright Local 2309, said the project is focused on expanding opportunities for future tradespeople.
“This project is about investing in people and creating opportunities for the next generation of millwrights,” Baker said.
Ontario says it has now committed $139.6 million through the Skills Development Fund Capital Stream to expand and modernize training facilities across the province.
