Ontario Construction News staff writer
Amazon Canada has opened an advanced robotics fulfillment centre in Hamilton, and announced plans to build three new facilities in Ottawa, Southwold and Whitby in 2022 and 2023:
“This new facility in Hamilton is the company’s most advanced facility in our network today, and it’s the 1,500 employees that really make this place spectacular,” said Vibhore Arora, regional director, Canada Customer Fulfillment, Amazon Canada. “Robotics technology helps extend the reach and capability of our team in a manner that makes tasks easier and more efficient and make our fulfillment centres safer and more collaborative.”
To celebrate the robotics facility opening, Amazon Canada presented a donation of $25,000 to FIRST Robotics Canada, an organization focused on engaging young people in mentor-based programs that build STEM skills. The company’s donation will help FIRST Robotics support 10 schools and programs across Canada, inspiring youth to build skills and careers in STEM. They include:
- Chinguacousy Secondary School – Brampton
- Joseph Secondary School – Mississauga
- Inverse Paradox Community Team – Mississauga
- Mary Secondary School – Hamilton
- Ross Sheppard High School – Edmonton
- Community All-Girls Team – Calgary
- Templeton High School – Vancouver
- Killarney Secondary School – Vancouver
- Lakeside Academy – Lachine
- École Paul-Hubert – Rimouski
“It’s absolutely critical to have kids and youth thinking about their future and inspiring them to become positive leaders in STEM fields. We are grateful for the increased support from Amazon Canada,” says Dave Ellis, President of FIRST Robotics Canada. “These funds will allow students to compete in FIRST programs, build robots, and solve real-world problems while also providing them with invaluable skills for life.”
Amazon’s expansion in Ontario between 2021 and 2023 includes 19 new facilities.