Premier Doug Ford visited Thunder Bay on July 31, 2025, to announce more than $4 million in provincial funding for skilled trades and workforce training across Northwestern Ontario.

Delivered through Ontario’s Skills Development Fund, the investment will support six local training initiatives and help nearly 500 people prepare for careers in construction, mining, transportation and other skilled industries.

LiUNA Local 607 will receive $920,825 to provide hands-on construction training, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for women and others who have traditionally been underrepresented in the trades.

“With this investment, nearly 500 people in Thunder Bay will get the skills to build our province and build a better life for themselves and their families,” said Premier Ford during the announcement.

The funding will help Local 607 strengthen its training capacity and give more participants access to practical instruction designed around the needs of the construction industry. These opportunities will help workers gain job-ready skills while supporting employers looking for qualified people to meet growing regional demand.

Premier Ford’s visit also highlighted the important role that unions, training centres and community organizations play in building Northwestern Ontario’s workforce.

LiUNA Local 607 appreciates the Government of Ontario’s investment in local workers and looks forward to helping more people access the training, experience and opportunities needed to build successful careers in the skilled trades.