Just two weeks after announcing plans to cut the Ontario College of Trades and rolling back apprenticeships, the Ontario government said it is investing $13.2 million for pre-apprenticeship training.
Applications for funding to deliver programs to approximately 1,200 people.are open now. The province adds that programs selected to provide training will be notified in January for projects to start in 2019. Approved programs will last up to one year, and combine level one apprenticeship training with a work placement, free training, textbooks, safety equipment and tools.
The Ford government said it is helping individuals across the province prepare for successful careers in the skilled trades, so employers can get the skilled workers they need to make Ontario open for business.
"Ontario is open for business again. With one in five new jobs expected to be in trades-related occupations by 2021, we need to train more skilled workers to keep our economy strong," said Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. "These programs get people ready for a rich and rewarding education and career in the skilled trades, by making them ready to work as apprentices."
The Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program is offered every year at various colleges and other community partners.
"Ontario's government is making sure people can build better futures for themselves and for our province," said Minister Fullerton.