Ontario Government Hires Former Union President
Dave Cassidy, the former President of Unifor Local 444, who retired in April, has been appointed as a Skilled Trades Special Advisor for the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
According to a government release, Cassidy will be responsible for assessing workforce needs in the manufacturing and auto industries, with a particular focus on electric vehicles. His role will ensure that Ontario is well-prepared for the rapid development and expansion of these sectors.
Cassidy led Local 444 for six years and has been a member of Unifor’s National Executive Board since the union’s founding. He was elected to the National Skilled Trades Council as a Trustee in 2005, making him uniquely qualified for his new position.
“As our province continues to grow and attract new investments, we will need more skilled workers to support these growing industries,” said Cassidy. “Not only will these workers help to build Ontario, but they will build a better future for themselves and their families. That is why I am thrilled to be working alongside Minister Piccini to ensure that Ontario’s workforce is ready to support the jobs of tomorrow.”
Through Ontario’s Skilled Trades Strategy, the province has invested over $1.5 billion in skilled trades since 2020. Cassidy’s appointment is part of the PC government’s ongoing efforts to attract, train, and protect workers, aiming to make Ontario the best place to work, live, and raise a family.
