Ford announces new trades funding in Windsor [Video]

Citing a critical need for expanded training infrastructure to meet labour demands in Windsor-Essex, the union representing more than 400 active electrical workers in Essex and Kent counties is applauding a promise from the Ford government to invest millions into a new training centre.

The facility, spearheaded by International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 773, would more than double the current training capacity, equipping workers for high-demand jobs in construction, manufacturing, and the auto sector while helping alleviate a shortage of skilled electricians in the region.

The announcement was made Monday during a visit to Windsor by Ontario Premier Doug Ford at the IBEW Local 773 office on North Service Road.

Ford promised to invest more than $9 million from Ontario’s Skills Development Fund to train approximately 2,300 workers for “in-demand careers” in Windsor-Essex.

IBEW Local 773 would receive $5.5 million to build a new 24,000-square-foot training facility to …