Federal government invests over $3.8M in McMaster University for upskilling workers in the aerospace sector

HAMILTON — On Feb. 27, Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) and MP for Hamilton West–Ancaster–Dundas; along with Lisa Hepfner, MP for Hamilton Mountain; and Chad Collins, MP for Hamilton East–Stoney Creek, announced an investment of over $3.8 million for McMaster University. With this investment, McMaster University will deliver a two-year targeted training program that is designed and instructed in collaboration with industry for aerospace professionals in southern Ontario, to help SMEs in this sector strengthen the workforce and grow the economy.

Through partnerships with organizations like Mohawk College Enterprise, Downsview Aerospace Innovation and Research, the Ontario Aerospace Council, Women in Aerospace Canada, as well as employers and industry experts, the curriculum will try and deliver results. The program will help participating employers and SMEs improve productivity and efficiency through training and upskilling focused on the integration of technology in the workplace, allowing them to better understand their environmental impact and make efforts in greening their operations.

McMaster University is working with Indigenous organizations to help make outreach, engagement and participation easier for Indigenous people in manufacturing and aerospace training programs, with the intent of making skilled jobs more accessible. Additionally, a series of short courses based on a reconciliation toolkit for business leaders is being developed to increase awareness of regional Indigenous communities and their culture as well as how to attract and retain Indigenous talent.

Through this project, it is anticipated that nearly 340 aerospace professionals will receive the training and tools they need to grow in the industry, 100 of which will be Indigenous learners. All of the program participants will then go on to make the changes needed to help the aerospace industry excel and meet the demands on today’s global supply chain.

“Our government is investing in the potential of workers in the aerospace industry and ensuring they have the resources to contribute to a strong and growing economy. This new program delivered through McMaster University is equipping workers and businesses across southern Ontario with the skills and training they need to soar into the future. I am proud to be supporting them as we work together to grow an economy that works for everyone,” said Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario and Member of Parliament for Hamilton West–Ancaster–Dundas.