Tuesday, August 19, 2025
The Government of Ontario announced it is investing $75 million to train up to 7,800 additional students at colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes across the province for jobs in construction and urban planning.
“Our government has bold plans to build the Ontario of tomorrow, and it is critical that we have the homegrown, highly skilled workers to get it done,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “From designing roadways to building homes, this investment will ensure our students have the training they need to launch rewarding, in-demand careers.”
This investment will fund up to 7,500 new seats at colleges and Indigenous Institutes for construction programs such as welding, carpentry and renovation techniques. The funding will also support up to 300 new seats for graduate students at universities to train vital urban and land use planners across the province by 2028.
“In the midst of U.S. tariffs and global economic uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to strengthen our skilled workforce,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “We have an ambitious plan to build Ontario, and by investing in more seats for skills training today, we are protecting the jobs of tomorrow. Each of these additional seats will help ensure Ontario workers can land better jobs with bigger paycheques.”
Colleges receiving funding to expand enrollment in the construction programs starting as early as September 2025 include: Cambrian College, Confederation College, Collège Boréal, La Cité, Centennial College, Durham College, George Brown College, Humber Polytechnic, Conestoga College, Fleming College, Georgian College, Niagara College and Fanshawe College, as well as Kenjgewin Teg, an Indigenous Institute.
“Investments like this strengthen Durham College’s ability to transform lives by preparing career-ready graduates who will help meet Ontario’s housing and infrastructure needs,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President of Durham College. “Through future-focused training in skilled trades and construction, we equip them with the skills and experience to thrive—building sustainable, connected communities and shaping the province’s future.”
Universities receiving funding to expand enrollment in their graduate level planning programs include: Queen’s University, Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Guelph, York University and University of Waterloo. Students interested in careers in construction and the skilled trades can visit My Career Journey to learn more.
“Colleges welcome this important and timely investment to continue to build the workforce of the future and prosperity for Ontario. Colleges are the sole regional provider for more than 100 related programs,” said Maureen Adamson, Interim President and CEO, Colleges Ontario.
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
