Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is investing $1.5 million to help experienced construction workers mentor the next generation of home builders, as part of a broader effort to address the province’s growing skills gap in the residential construction sector.
Funding, provided through the Skills Development Fund (SDF) Training Stream, will support 100 seasoned workers in gaining leadership skills and specialized knowledge in emerging building technologies and modern construction practices. The initiative is part of the government’s $2.5-billion SDF investment aimed at equipping Ontario workers with the training and tools needed to secure in-demand jobs while supporting the province’s housing goals.
“The OHBA Futures Faster program is innovative because it is open to workers across all aspects of the residential construction industry — from builders and renovators to tradespeople to the behind-the-scenes professionals who ensure that homes are built,” said Scott Andison, CEO of the Ontario Home Builders Association (OHBA). “We are grateful that the province saw the value in this program and is providing support to upskill workers and ensure that Ontario has the skilled labour workforce we need to continue building communities.”
The announcement was made at the offices of Panel-It, a St. Thomas-based division of Doug Tarry Homes. Led by OHBA, the Futures Faster program will initially train mentors in leadership, building code updates, and emerging construction technologies.
“Doug Tarry Homes and Panel-It are excited to explore future opportunities to act as a partner in mentored upskilling and building the future workforce of the Ontario housing industry,” said Shane Tarry, general manager of Panel-It.
Once trained, mentors will be paired with “mentees,” including recent graduates and workers at risk of job displacement. Mentors will provide guidance on completing up to two credentials in high-demand areas such as resilient construction, new 18-storey mass timber regulations, and radon mitigation practices, helping both mentors and mentees advance as specialized experts.
Ontario’s construction sector is facing a significant labour shortage, with over 10,500 jobs unfilled in the second quarter of 2025 alone. To address this, the government recently launched a new call for SDF Training Stream proposals totaling $260 million, with applications open until Oct. 1.
Since 2021, Ontario has invested $1.5 billion through the SDF Training and Capital Streams, training more than one million workers. The 2025 provincial budget pledged an additional $1 billion over the next three years to further expand the program, supporting critical sectors and in-demand skills.
“We are facing unprecedented economic times, and Ontario needs highly skilled workers that can deliver on our historic $200-billion infrastructure plan to build more homes and other critical infrastructure over the next decade,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “With this investment, we are making sure more home builders have the skills to help open doors to good-paying jobs building more housing in our communities, keeping the dream of home ownership alive for families across the province.”
Individuals interested in applying to the Futures Faster mentorship program can contact su*****@***********er.ca or visit www.futuresfaster.ca.