Science North CEO excited about $3.2 million investment for new trades training facility for young people
The training facility will accommodate up to 35,000 youth to explore careers in mining and the skilled trades.
The CEO of Science North in Sudbury, Ont., is looking forward to the latest expansion planned for the popular tourist attraction after a $3.2 million provincial government investment announced last Friday. The money will go to build a trade skills training centre for youth.
The move is designed to boost interest in careers in mining and the skilled trades among young people, according to a news release from the province.
The centre, to be built at Science North's Dynamic Earth site, will facilitate 35,000 youth and apprentices over a five-year period.
"There is a huge need, there's a big workforce gap in terms of skilled trades. And if we look towards, you know, a green economy and, and, and a greener future, we need folks in the trades to help get us there." Ashley Larose, CEO of Science North, told CBC Radio in an interview.
Last week, Premier Doug Ford said Ontario would be investing nearly $17 million in new funding through the Skills Development Fund to train over 36,000 workers in the North for careers in mining, construction, energy and forestry and to build new training facilities.
The premier said the province is partnering with labour unions, local employers, and First Nations to tackle labour shortages in northern Ontario.
Larose says her organization already has experience with making science interesting and accessible to all ages.
"This is the first step in the talent pipeline because if we don't get the next generation inspired to pursue careers in the skilled trades, then that makes the challenge much harder further down the line," she said
It's hoped the new facility will open its doors in 2026.