Skills Development Fund investment to train 100 First Nations participants for construction of Highway 17
This funding is part of our broader effort to strengthen Ontario’s workforce, investing nearly $8 million through Round 6 of the Skills Development Fund Training Stream to support more than 7,300 people in the North access training and prepare for in-demand jobs in critical sectors like mining, construction and skilled trades. These projects will ensure Northern Ontario has the skilled workforce needed to deliver the homes, highways, hospitals, and critical infrastructure that will protect Ontario workers and communities.
“This investment is about building a stronger workforce today, while ensuring Ontario has the talent to deliver the major infrastructure and economic growth projects of tomorrow,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Through the sixth round of the Skills Development Fund, we are helping more people gain the hands-on experience, certifications and employer connections they need to succeed in high-demand sectors. These projects will ensure workers across the province can access the training and support they need to step into in-demand careers and drive growth across Ontario.”
Since launching its training initiatives, Niiwin Wendaanimok has worked with over 300 First Nations individuals to complete training and enter meaningful careers, spanning multiple skilled trades. Bringing together technical expertise and representation from Wauzhusk Onigum, Washagamis Bay, Shoal Lake 40, and Niisaachewan Anisinaabe Nation, Niiwiin continues to be a guiding partner in responsible regional development throughout Treaty #3, specifically alongside the phased Twinning of Highway 17.
This investments into the skills development directly linked to a project of regional and national significance, Highway 17, is part of our broader strategy for regional workforce development. With the recent announcement of the new Kenora examination centre, facilitated through a partnership with Skilled Trades Ontario and Seven Generations Education Institutes, First Nations partnerships remain central to the expansion of skilled trades across Treaty #3.
“We have a heighted focus on the development of the regional workforces that are building out the legacy infrastructure here in Northwestern Ontario,” said Greg Rickford, Member of Provincial Parliament for Kenora-Rainy River. “Niiwin Wendaanimok remain steadfast partners and leaders as we responsibly develop the region, complete the kind of highway safety that will protect families in Northern Ontario, and ensure skilled training is accessible for Treaty #3 communities.”
Improving access and streamlining pathways to the skilled trades in Northwestern Ontario is part of the government’s ongoing plan to protect Ontario by building a highly skilled workforce ready to meet growing demand and keep Ontario resilient into the future. Through its $236 plan to build, the government is delivering critical infrastructure projects that communities rely on while connecting more people to stable, good-paying careers.
Quotes
“Trade and transportation corridors are vital to strong, resilient economies and it is essential that development reflects our knowledge, values and leadership. The success of previous Skills Development Fund investments has shown what our learners can achieve — especially our youth, who are building skills, redefining success and earning recognition across the country. The twinning of Highway 17 is a nation-building project and we are ensuring our people are not just taking part, but leading the work on our own territory.”
- Chief Herb Green, Niiwin Wendaanimok LP
“The Skills Development Fund investment from the Province of Ontario will help Niiwin Wendaanimok Partnership expand culturally appropriate Anishinaabe training programs that prepare Indigenous people for careers in the skilled trades and construction sectors. With major projects underway across Northwestern Ontario, demand for skilled workers is growing. This funding will help Indigenous communities meet that demand while creating lasting economic opportunities. The need for this training is clear, our most recent intake attracted more than 123 applicants for 40 positions, showing strong interest among Indigenous people. This investment will help us train more workers and strengthen the Indigenous workforce supporting Northern Ontario’s growth.”
- Allan Luby, General Manager, Niiwin Wendaanimok Partnership