Thunder Bay Shipyard Receives $10 Million Boost for Workforce Training
Ontario Shipyards Inc., which operates shipbuilding and repair facilities in St. Catharines, Hamilton, and Thunder Bay, has secured $10 million in funding from the provincial government to train workers.
Premier Doug Ford announced the funding on Wednesday in St. Catharines, emphasizing the need for all levels of government to support the shipbuilding industry. He highlighted the importance of building Canadian vessels in Ontario, by Ontario shipbuilders, to unlock the industry’s full potential.
Earlier this year, Ontario Shipyards suspended operations at its Thunder Bay facility, citing a shortage of skilled labor as a significant factor. While details on how the new funding will affect the Thunder Bay shipyard are not yet available, the company has not provided further information.
According to the government’s announcement, Ontario Shipyards will use the funding to offer training, re-skilling, and up-skilling programs in trades such as millwright, welding, electrical, and painting at its facilities in St. Catharines, Hamilton, and Thunder Bay. The courses will cover shipbuilding, ship repair, shipyard orientation, health and safety procedures, and will include professional development, leadership training, and mentoring aimed at attracting and retaining the next generation of workers.
Employees of Ontario Shipyards Inc. interested in the training programs are encouraged to contact the company directly.
In a brief statement, Shaun Padulo, President and CEO of Ontario Shipyards, expressed gratitude to the government for supporting the revitalization of the shipbuilding and repair industry.
“Our goal is to ensure that Ontario can once again lead in repairing and constructing vessels for our nation, fostering economic growth and creating thousands of high-paying jobs within the communities where our shipyards operate,” Padulo stated.
Dougall Media reached out to Ontario Shipyards for further details but has not yet received a response.
