The Ontario government is investing more than $8.6 million through the Skills Development Fund to help more than 1,700 women across the Greater Toronto Area access training for in-demand skilled trades jobs.
The investment is part of a $2.5 billion provincial commitment to support workers and keep Ontario’s economy competitive in the face of U.S. tariffs.
“Ontario’s economy depends on the skill and determination of its workers, and we’re making sure women have every opportunity to be part of that success,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “By investing over $8 million through the Skills Development Fund, we’re opening doors to good-paying careers in the skilled trades, breaking down barriers and helping more women gain the confidence, training and in-demand skills they need to build Ontario’s future.”
Piccini made the announcement at IBEW 353 in North York, which is receiving $2.3 million to expand its Pathway Program for Women & Indigenous Pre-Apprentices.
The province is also partnering with five organizations across the GTA to deliver training programs that aim to make the skilled trades more accessible to women, including initiatives by Enercare Home Services, Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto, the Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario, Brands for Canada and The Career Foundation.
Since launching in 2021, the Skills Development Fund has invested $1.5 billion to help train more than one million workers for in-demand careers. The 2025 Ontario budget adds another $1 billion over the next three years to expand training opportunities across key industries.
