Ontario Construction News staff writer
As Canada’s construction sector shifts toward more sustainable and efficient building methods, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) is rolling out a nationwide training initiative aimed at preparing workers for the growing use of mass timber construction.
The UBC Sustainable Jobs Mass Timber Project, funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) through the Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP), will establish 10 mass timber training modules delivered at selected UBC training centres across the country.
“Through the UBC Sustainable Jobs Mass Timber Project, we’re ensuring Canada’s workers have the training needed to build infrastructure and housing quickly and sustainably with mass timber construction,” said Jason Rowe, UBC Canadian District vice-president. “This project will ensure that UBC members and signatory contractors are ready to meet the growing demand and investment in this emerging building technology and can lead the way in sustainable construction across the country.”
Mass timber has emerged as an increasingly attractive option for owners, developers and contractors because of its affordability, modular design and reduced construction timelines. Manufactured from renewable wood products, mass timber stores carbon and typically generates fewer emissions than steel or concrete, positioning it as a lower-impact alternative for residential and institutional construction.
Under the program, UBC members will receive specialized training in key areas critical to mass timber projects, including hoisting and rigging, mass timber product handling and assembly, and exterior envelope and curtain wall installation. Each module combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, giving participants practical experience with modern mass timber technologies and construction techniques.
To improve access, the program includes financial supports to help offset barriers to participation, such as dependent care, living expenses and transportation costs. Each training session will run for one week, or 40 hours, with the program expected to train approximately 4,000 participants over its duration.
In addition to workforce development, the initiative is designed to support Canada’s forestry sector and domestic supply chains. All materials used in the training will be sourced from Canadian-made forest products, helping sustain lumber production and forestry jobs amid ongoing trade uncertainty with the United States.
Funding for the project is provided by Employment and Social Development Canada as part of the federal Union Training and Innovation Program.
