Ontario Expands Skilled Trades Training Capacity with New Cambridge Facility
Cambridge Skills Training Centre Expansion Boosts Workforce Development and Construction Careers
Supported by an $8.8 million investment through the Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Stream, the upgraded LiUNA Local 837 training centre will train up to 5,000 additional apprentices and construction workers over the next five years.
Expanding Capacity to Meet Labour Demand
The expansion comes as Ontario faces a significant workforce challenge, with an estimated 400,000 skilled trades workers needed over the next decade to support infrastructure projects and replace retiring workers.
Premier Doug Ford said investments in training are critical to delivering the province’s long-term infrastructure goals.
“To deliver on our government’s historic $236 billion plan to build, Ontario will need 400,000 more skilled trade workers,” Ford said. “This state-of-the-art training centre will connect young people and job seekers… with the in-demand skills they need to land good-paying careers.”
Modern Training Facility with Advanced Technology
Located at 330 Industrial Road, the upgraded facility includes both renovated classroom space and a new 23,791-square-foot expansion.
Key features of the training centre include:
- A cutting-edge equipment lab
- Simulation training environments
- Virtual reality technology for safe, hands-on learning
- Expanded classroom and instructional space
Officials say the integration of virtual reality allows apprentices to train in realistic job-site conditions before entering the workforce, improving both safety and skill development.
Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini said the investment supports both workers and the broader economy.
“By investing in modern, world-class training facilities like this, we are helping workers build rewarding careers in the skilled trades while ensuring Ontario has the workforce it needs to build, grow and deliver critical projects,” Piccini said.
Strengthening Ontario’s Construction Workforce
Ontario’s construction sector employed approximately 577,500 workers in 2025, and demand continues to rise as the province advances major infrastructure and housing initiatives.
The Skills Development Fund Capital Stream has already committed $128.7 million to expand and modernize training facilities across Ontario, helping connect workers to in-demand careers.
Nick Ciccone, Training Director at LiUNA Local 837, said the expansion represents a direct investment in workers and the future of the industry.
“This is a direct investment in workers, in safety and in the future of our industry,” Ciccone said, highlighting the centre’s role in preparing a skilled, local workforce.
Supporting Local Communities and Economic Growth
Local officials say the expanded training centre will create new opportunities for residents in Cambridge and the broader Waterloo Region.
Brian Riddell, MPP for Cambridge, described the facility as a major investment in the community’s future, while Jess Dixon, MPP for Kitchener South—Hespeler, emphasized the importance of accessible training pathways for residents seeking stable, long-term careers.
For more updates on jobs, training and economic development across Ontario, follow GTA Today.
