12 Nov Ontario Announces Major Program Investment in the Skilled Trades
Significant Program Expansion for Skilled Trades to Inspire the Next Generation
In the lead-up to National Skilled Trades and Technology Week, Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, announced a record-level investment to support expansion of the province’s Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program to include an additional 122 new programs aimed at encouraging more high school students to enter the skilled trades.
“We know that a labour market shortage exists today and will rise over time in the high-paying skilled trades,” said Minister Lecce. “My top priority is to ensure students get the skills they need and, by investing in the skilled trades, our government is helping more students gain the competitive edge and job prospects they deserve.”
“Our students need the skills and training necessary for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” said Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “By offering programs like dual credits, students are not only gaining these skills, but doing so in ways that accelerate their careers and address employment gaps in Ontario quickly and efficiently.”
It is estimated that by 2021, one in five new jobs in Ontario will be in trades-related occupations, with employers already facing a shortage of workers in key sectors. As part of SHSM, high school students can now choose among an additional 122 new programs related to 19 different sectors, including construction, agriculture and mining. This high-demand program now lets more students have greater choice in selecting a career path that matches their skills and interests, while also meeting the requirements of their high school diploma.