Ontario (Rajeev Sharma): Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced an ambitious nationwide initiative aimed at addressing labour shortages in the skilled trades sector, with a target to recruit and train up to 100,000 workers over the next five years.
Speaking from Gatineau, Carney outlined the government’s new flagship programme, Team Canada Strong, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s economic resilience amid shifting global trade dynamics.
The $6 billion plan focuses on creating a robust workforce capable of supporting large-scale infrastructure and development projects, including housing, transportation networks, energy systems, and defence industries. Officials say the initiative is designed to remove long-standing barriers that have discouraged young Canadians from entering trades such as welding, electrical work, and heavy equipment operation.
Under the recruitment component, the government will invest $2 billion to provide paid, job-ready placements that lead directly into registered apprenticeships. A new Build Canada Apprenticeship Service will also be introduced to connect candidates with employers and offer financial support of up to $10,000 toward first-year apprentice wages.
To modernise training, more than $300 million has been allocated to streamline certification processes and upgrade facilities. Plans include digitising the Red Seal programme through online examinations, digital records, and a unified national apprenticeship identification system to reduce delays.
On the employment front, the government will commit $3.4 billion to help apprentices complete their training and transition into stable careers. Incentives include a one-time $5,000 bonus upon certification and weekly financial support during mandatory classroom training periods, potentially bringing total assistance per apprentice to $16,000 in addition to existing benefits.
The initiative also includes collaboration with unions, Indigenous communities, businesses, and the Canadian Armed Forces to expand training capacity. An additional $250 million will be directed toward military-led training programmes, including new opportunities for reservists and youth through cadet initiatives.
Carney emphasized that the programme aims to provide “end-to-end” support—from initial interest to full certification—while significantly reducing the time required to qualify in a trade.
The government believes the initiative will play a crucial role in meeting Canada’s growing infrastructure demands and ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled workers for the future.
