Ontario invests $3M in training programs for automotive and advanced manufacturing workers

The government of Ontario has announced a $3-million investment in upskilling and training programs for workers in the automotive and advanced manufacturing industries.

The province’s new Rapid Skills pilot will provide short-duration training. It is designed to help workers who are unemployed, underutilized, or at-risk of being laid off.

The government has issued a call for proposals to organizations interested in developing and delivering this training. Funding will support a diverse range of training projects that address the needs of auto industries and employers, equip participants with in-demand skills and are recognized with a credential.

The idea of rapid skills, also known as micro-credentials, was introduced in “Driving Prosperity: The Future of Ontario’s Automotive Sector,” the government’s 10-year vision for the sector.

“Ontario auto workers are among the most productive anywhere, with the province’s assembly plants excelling in industry awards for new vehicle quality manufacturing,”says Vic Fedeli, minister of economic development, job creation and trade. “The Rapid Skills micro-credentials pilot takes a smart, nimble and collaborative approach to meeting the evolving training requirements of a fast-changing industry.”

Organizations that apply to develop and deliver training through the Rapid Skills call for proposals will be selected in late 2019. More information about how individuals can participate in the training will be shared in early 2020.

To learn more about what types of organizations are eligible for support and to apply, visit Rapid Skills 2019-20.