Canada’s changing economy and investments in infrastructure make skills training critical to our future. The skilled trades offer good, well-paying, middle-class jobs, and the Government of Canada is committed to supporting key groups, such as women, Indigenous people, newcomers and persons with disabilities access these jobs. That’s why on Friday, Salma Zahid, Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, announced a project that will invest in training equipment and materials to help apprentices in plumbers, steamfitters and welders get the skills they need to succeed. This project is funded under the Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP). “Canada’s future success depends on building an economy that is as inclusive as it is innovative,” said Minister Hajdu. “That’s why our government is investing in this project that will help apprentices in Scarborough, and especially those who face additional barriers to participate and succeed in the skilled trades, start exciting and well-paying careers in the trades.” The Government of Canada will provide over $467,487 for the “U.A. Local 46 Training for the Future” project, delivered by U.A. Local 46 Training Department. The organization will purchase equipment that will help participants as they develop their skills to help them get jobs. UTIP projects help unions across Canada improve the quality of training through investments in up-to-date training equipment and materials, and support innovation and enhanced partnerships to address long-standing challenges that limit apprenticeship outcomes in Canada. As a result of this investment, more apprentices will be able to develop their skills, complete their training and find good, well-paying jobs. “The Union Training and Innovation Program will help new generations of workers benefit from the mentorship and training that unions and other training organizations are so well equipped to offer,” said MP Zahid. “Through this project in Scarborough our government is building stronger communities and strengthening the middle class.” As Canada’s economy continues to grow and create good, well-paying jobs, our Government is committed to ensuring that all Canadians share in and benefit from this success.