Northern Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Government of Ontario is marking the expansion of a training centre in Thunder Bay aimed at strengthening the skilled trades workforce in Northern Ontario.
Backed by more than $644,000 through the province’s Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Stream, the project will expand the training facility operated by Ironworkers Local 759. The upgrade is expected to support training for up to 150 additional structural and ornamental ironworkers over the next five years.
“This investment and partnership means a lot to us at Local 759. It helps us train the next generation of Ironworkers right here in Northern Ontario, close to home,” said Adam MacGillivray, Business Manager / FS.T., International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers, Local 759. “By growing our facility, we’re giving our members and future generations the hands-on training, safety knowledge, and real-world experience they need to succeed, while continuing to build a stronger, more connected community.”
The expanded facility includes a new classroom and welding space, allowing for a combination of hands-on and in-class instruction in areas such as heavy machinery operation, blueprint reading and welding.
“Northern Ontario is a pivotal region for our economic future, and that’s why we’re expanding access to high-quality training close to home,” Labour Minister David Piccini said in a statement. “Investments in training facilities like this are helping workers build careers and deliver the critical projects that will shape Ontario’s future.”
Funding will help meet rising demand for skilled labour in Northwestern Ontario and create opportunities for residents to pursue trades careers without leaving the region.
According to provincial data, about 577,500 people were employed in Ontario’s construction sector in 2025, with more than 400,000 skilled trades workers expected to be needed over the next decade due to retirements and job growth.
“CanNor’s investment is a timely acceleration of Grays Bay Road and Port development,” said Brendan Bell, CEO, West Kitikmeot Resources Corp. “For example, it will enable WKR to bring forward detailed seabed mapping at the port site, and select major construction partners sooner.
“As we move forwards more quickly, we will also have the resources to ramp up our community engagement and make sure that regional and community benefits are maximized.”