Province commits $700,000 to training insulating trades workers
The Ontario government has announced nearly $700,000 in funding in a project that will provide free training to more than 200 journeypersons and apprentices in the heat and frost insulating trades.
The program is being run by Local 95, International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers in Toronto.
It aims to prepare learners for the Red Seal certification exam using a new, online platform designed to help reach those who would not otherwise be able to complete the training. Individual mentorship will also be available to participants during the program, which will continue through March 2025.
“This training will help participants upgrade their job skills and prepare for well-paying jobs in the skilled trades,” said Labour Minister David Piccini. “For over 80 years, Local 95 of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers has been providing valuable education and skills training to its members, and we are proud to partner with them on this essential project.”
Funding for the program is being provided through the training stream of Ontario’s Skills Development Fund.
"Securing funding from the Skills Development Fund Training Stream signifies a major achievement in our ongoing efforts to advance the skills and expertise of our members to remain current with industry demands,” said Local 95 business manager David Gardner. “Through our Journeyperson Upgrading Program and creation of an online learning platform to prepare members to obtain their Red Seal Certification, we’re able to empower our members, build a resilient workforce, and reinforce our dedication to excellence."
Since its launch in 2021, the fund has helped train almost 600,000 workers in in-demand sectors, including over 66,000 construction workers, over 92,000 manufacturing workers and over 36,000 personal support workers.
Over 420,000 of these participants are expected to be from underrepresented groups such as women, youth, persons with disabilities and Indigenous peoples.