Ontario Initiatives to Support Veterans in Skilled Trades

The Ontario government has announced initiatives to assist Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and their spouses in transitioning to civilian careers in skilled trades. This includes a $2.4 million investment through the Skills Development Fund to offer free training in technology and cybersecurity fields.

Key initiatives include:

• Coding for Veterans: Over $1.9 million allocated to provide free online training in software development and cybersecurity.
• Roland Gossage Foundation: More than $491,000 directed towards the Soldiers in Tech Project, which offers training and mentorship in tech careers.

The government is also proposing legislative changes to recognize military trade credentials as equivalent to civilian trades, facilitating a smoother transition for military personnel into civilian roles. This proposal is part of the Honouring Veterans Act, 2024, which aims to formally recognize military trades and provide career pathways for veterans.

Additionally, the province is enhancing the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) processes at colleges and universities to acknowledge the skills and experiences of veterans, potentially reducing the time and cost required to complete educational programs.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to support veterans and military families in Ontario, aiming to leverage their skills and experiences for the benefit of the local economy.