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The Ontario government is committing $878,878 to support new Canadians in Peterborough–Kawartha as they prepare for careers in the construction sector.
The funding, announced through the Skills Development Fund Training Stream, will support the “Training New Canadians for Construction Jobs” program in partnership with Utimus. The initiative is designed to equip newcomers with the skills needed to secure work in high-demand trades such as carpentry, electrical work, and plumbing within Eastern Ontario. Utimus CEO Brian Macdonald explains why.
Utimus works with governments and organizations to help newcomers overcome barriers to employment by providing job placements, online training, and Canadian-certified credentials that open the door to stronger career opportunities. Some partnerships also offer training modules covering topics such as résumé writing and leading effective meetings. Macdonald says these resources are essential for newly arrived Canadians adjusting to life and work in this country.
Officials say the investment is part of Ontario’s broader $2.5-billion plan to strengthen the workforce, improve productivity, and protect jobs against challenges such as U.S. tariffs. The Skills Development Fund Training Stream is open to a wide range of applicants, including employers, labour unions, industry associations, and community organizations. MPP Dave Smith says the province is short 350,000 skilled trades workers and this program will help close the gap.
Since launching in 2021, the Skills Development Fund has provided training opportunities to more than 500,000 jobseekers, connecting them with skills for stable, good-paying careers close to home.
(Written by: Noah Lorusso)
