Training Overview


Training is key to being competitive in a global economy. Employers constantly require new and higher levels of skills because of continuing technological change in the workplace. Strong literacy and basic skills are needed for success in any labour market.

To help Ontario meet these challenges, the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities supports programs and services for both employers and employees. The ministry:

  • supports apprenticeship programs to develop the skilled workers needed in key areas of the economy;
  • assists in the development of curriculum and standards for workplace training under the Sector Initiatives Fund;
  • provides advice to communities and organizations during plant closures and downsizing, through the Adjustment Advisory Program; and
  • provides up-to-date information and research on the labour market and on skills that will be needed in the future. This information is valuable to people making career choices and planning future training.

The ministry also supports programs to help individuals make the transition from unemployment to employment and from education and training to the labour force. These programs:

  • provide career and employment preparation through Job Connect, including career information and referral, employment planning, and on-the-job training, through a network of community-based organizations;
  • offer Literacy and Basic Skills to support further education and training and prepare participants for employment upgrading;
  • create summer employment opportunities through Ontario Summer Jobs, offering job-search assistance, self-employment opportunities, and wage subsidies for employers; and
  • provide assessment, information, and referrals through the Training Hotline, a centralized access point for Ontario's training and employment initiatives. Training Hotline counsellors provide direction and detailed program information, and can mail out related printed materials.

Training opportunities are made available through colleges, school boards, and community agencies.

Local Training Boards are being set up to direct the planning and delivery of federal and provincial training programs to make job and skills training more accessible, effective, and responsive to local needs.

Sector Initiatives Fund

The Sector Initiatives Fund provides assistance to industry sectors and organizations, helping them develop their own training programs, standards, and materials for the workforce. This approach encourages sector-wide research and planning in order to address skills gaps.

Sectoral collaboration enables many firms to contribute to and benefit from training beyond the capacity of an individual company. It also encourages accreditation for skills training and the development of provincial and national training standards.

More Information

For further information, call the Employment Ontario Hotline at (416) 326-5656 or 1-800-387-5656. You can also send e-mail inquiries to the ministry at info@edu.gov.on.ca.