The province is working to get more people on the job in the auto manufacturing industry.
Speaking in Stratford this morning, MPP and Minister of Labour Monte McNaughton was joined by Premier Doug Ford to announce details of a $5-million Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion program offering free training for as many as 500 people in under-represented groups.
“This investment will help local manufacturers find the skilled workers they need to grow our economy and connect job seekers with meaningful careers where they can proudly earn bigger pay cheques for themselves and their families,” McNaughton said.
Led by the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association (APMA,) training includes three-month paid job placements through APMA’s network of more than 300 small and medium-sized businesses. After completing the program, each participant will receive a job offer from a local employer.
The program features a combination of online and on-the-job training, where participants learn critical skills, such as manufacturing essentials, project management, and troubleshooting. Training is tailored to the needs of each participant and employers can receive up to $4,600 in wage subsidies for each trainee.
“The exciting future of the automotive sector in Ontario will benefit from welcoming new faces, voices and perspectives,” said APMA president Flavio Volpe. “This investment creates a sustainable platform for communities that haven’t historically participated in the sector to become integral to its success.”
The training program, funded through the Skills Development Fund, runs through March 31, 2023.
