$20 Million Investment to Train 8,000 Skilled Trades Workers Across Canada
Preparing the Workforce for Housing and Infrastructure Boom
Canada is gearing up for a massive construction push, and that means thousands of skilled trades workers need the right training to meet demand. On December 1, 2025, the Government of Canada announced $20 million in funding for two major organizations to make this happen:
- United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America
- Carpenters' Regional Council
This investment will train over 8,000 workers through innovative programs designed to prepare them for the future of construction.
What’s Happening?
- Virtual Reality Training: More than 4,000 journeypersons and apprentice millwrights will learn advanced rigging and hoisting techniques using VR technology.
- Green Building Skills: Another 4,000 carpenters will gain hands-on experience with sustainable construction methods, including installing and maintaining exterior layers that protect and seal buildings.
- Nationwide Access: Training will be delivered through 10 hubs across Canada, ensuring workers everywhere can participate.
These programs are part of the Union Training and Innovation Program – Sustainable Jobs stream, which focuses on preparing tradespeople for a greener economy and modern building technologies like mass timber construction.
Why It Matters
Canada has committed to doubling housing construction from 250,000 to 500,000 units annually. By 2033, there will be 410,000 job openings in construction trades. This training initiative ensures the workforce is ready to build homes and infrastructure quickly, efficiently, and sustainably.
How Does This Affect You?
Homeowners
- A better-trained workforce means higher-quality construction and faster timelines for custom homes and renovations.
- Skilled trades in green technologies ensure energy-efficient and durable homes.
Builders & Developers
- Access to thousands of newly trained workers reduces labor shortages and project delays.
- Expertise in mass timber and sustainable building methods aligns with evolving building codes and environmental goals.
Commercial Property Owners
- Projects involving complex exteriors or green retrofits will benefit from workers trained in advanced techniques.
- Faster delivery of mixed-use and commercial developments thanks to improved labor availability.
At UTES Design & Build, we’re excited about this investment. Our integrated architecture and engineering team is ready to collaborate with highly skilled trades professionals to deliver projects that meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
Let’s Build Canada Strong, Together
With $20 million invested in training and thousands of workers gaining cutting-edge skills, the future of construction is brighter than ever. UTES Design & Build is here to help you take advantage of this momentum, whether you’re planning a custom home, a multiplex, or a commercial project.
Contact us today to learn how these changes can benefit your next build.
