Ontario Supporting New Canadians to Get Training and Land Jobs in Peterborough-Kawartha
August 29, 2025
Investing $878,878 to help new Canadians gain the skills needed to work in the construction industry
Peterborough — The Ontario government is investing $878,878 through the Skills Development Fund Training Stream to support new Canadians in Peterborough-Kawartha to get the skills they need to land good-paying, in-demand jobs in the construction industry. This funding is a part of our broader effort to strengthen Ontario’s workforce, improve productivity, and protect workers from U.S. tariffs. This investment underpins our government’s $2.5 billion investment to promote better training, better jobs, with bigger paycheques.
“Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is protecting Ontario by investing in the tools, training, and resources needed to keep our workforce strong,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Through targeted funding, we’re strengthening our supply chains, growing a job-ready workforce, and building the foundation for a more self-reliant and productive province – one that can compete, deliver, and win.”
In partnership with Utimus, the “Training New Canadians for Construction Jobs” program aims to prepare newcomers to Canada to work in the construction sector in Eastern Ontario. This initiative would prepare individuals for jobs such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and other in-demand skilled trades.
“By investing in new Canadians, we’re not only helping them build a new life in Ontario but also addressing a critical labour shortage in the construction industry,” said Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough-Kawartha. “This funding will ensure that our newcomers have the skills to thrive and contribute to a stronger, more prosperous Ontario.” MPP Smith added.
The Skills Development Fund Training Stream is open to a wide range of applicants, including employers, industry associations, labour unions, hospitals and many more. The funding announced today builds on our government’s mission to protect Ontario and ensure it remains the best place to live, work, and raise a family.
“Utimus is excited to expand opportunities in the construction sector under the leadership of the Ford Government and Minister Piccini,” said Emilee Alpaugh, Program Manager, Utimus. “With the support of MPP Dave Smith, we are helping residents across Peterborough and the Kawarthas pursue rewarding careers in construction. Together, we are building the workforce of tomorrow.” Added Emilee Alpaugh.
Since its launch in 2021, Ontario’s Skills Development Fund has helped connect more than half a million jobseekers with the skills and training they need to find good-paying and fulfilling careers close to home.
Quick Facts
- So far, the Skills Development Fund Training Stream has supported over 1,000 training projects across the province.
- Since its launch in 2021, Ontario’s SDF Training Stream has aimed to help over 700,000 workers train for in-demand sectors, including over 154,000 construction workers, over 124,000 manufacturing workers and over 52,000 personal support workers and health care workers.
- People interested in participating in the programs announced today are encouraged to contact the lead organizations of the projects directly.
- The Skills Development Fund Training Stream is supported through labour market transfer agreements between the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
- As announced in the 2025 Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario, the Ontario government is investing an additional $1 billion through SDF to grow the trades workforce and build Ontario, bringing Ontario’s total investment in the SDF to $2.5 billion.
Additional Resources
MEDIA CONTACTS
Dave Smith Action Centre
david.smith@pc.ola.org
705-742-3777