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Ontario Government Invests $3 Million to Help Veterans Transition to Construction Careers

St. Thomas, ON — The Ontario government is investing $3 million over three years to support Helmets to Hardhats Canada in helping 650 active and former Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members transition into civilian life by training for careers in Ontario’s construction sector.

“This investment is about honoring the sacrifices of our veterans and ensuring they have the support they need to succeed in civilian life,” said Rob Flack, MPP for Elgin-Middlesex-London. “The skilled trades offer stable careers and a strong community, and we are proud to help veterans build their futures in this essential industry.”

Helmets to Hardhats Canada, a non-profit organization providing second career opportunities to military veterans, will use this funding to offer job-ready skills training, accelerate apprenticeships, and deliver critical safety training for in-demand construction roles. The program also aims to expand outreach to racialized and Indigenous veterans, as well as those with disabilities.

“We owe it to our military members to ensure they have the tools they need to succeed after their service,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “This investment will help veterans leverage their military expertise to build successful careers in construction.”

“Helmets to Hardhats Canada is grateful for the Ontario government’s support, which will allow us to help even more veterans build fulfilling careers in the skilled trades,” said James Hogarth, Executive Director of Helmets to Hardhats Canada.

This initiative builds on Ontario’s ongoing commitment to veterans, including over $4.7 million in funding to Helmets to Hardhats Canada. The government is also working to support veterans through the proposed Honouring Veterans Act, 2024, which will increase recognition and access to resources for military families.

“We can never fully repay the debt we owe to our veterans, but today’s announcement is another step towards ensuring they have the support they need to thrive in civilian life,” said Graham McGregor, Acting Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism.

Quick Facts:

  • Helmets to Hardhats Canada has already helped over 2,600 veterans transition into unionized construction careers.
  • Ontario’s Skills Development Fund (SDF) has trained over 600,000 workers in in-demand sectors, including 66,000 in construction.
  • The government is calling on the federal government to restore critical funding cuts that affect employment programs.

For more information, visit Helmets to Hardhats Canada website.

Media Contact:

Emily Gratton
Communications Advisor
Office of Rob Flack, MPP
519-631-5995
emily.gratton@pc.ola.org