Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney has announced a sweeping $6 billion initiative, “Team Canada Strong,” aimed at recruiting, training, and hiring up to 100,000 skilled trades workers over the next five years to strengthen the country’s economy.
A press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said the global trade landscape is rapidly changing and emphasized a focus on building nation-building projects, more affordable homes, new defence industries, and stronger local infrastructure. It noted that to build the next port, bridge, mine, or data centre, Canada needs more welders, crane operators, and electricians, but many young Canadians are discouraged from entering the trades due to long wait times, lack of opportunities, and the high cost of training.
Under the plan, $2 billion will be deployed to support young Canadians with paid, job-ready placements that lead directly into registered apprenticeships. The Build Canada Apprenticeship Service will provide up to $10,000 for an apprentice’s first-year salary, help match apprentices to job opportunities, and offer direct navigation and support to help employers hire, train, and retain apprentices.
To train workers faster, $331 million over five years, starting in 2026–27, along with $18 million ongoing, will be invested to boost and modernise apprenticeship training and expedite Red Seal certification. Measures include digitising the Red Seal Program with online exams, digital logbooks, secure credentials, and the creation of a single national registered apprenticeship number, according to the press release.
The release states that a further $3.4 billion over five years, starting in 2026–27, along with $468 million ongoing, will address barriers preventing apprentices from completing training and moving into permanent jobs. Supports include a one-time $5,000 apprenticeship completion bonus and a $400 weekly top-up during mandatory in-class training, for total payments of up to $16,000 per apprentice, in addition to Employment Insurance.
“Canada is building big – in ports, mines, railways, and millions more homes. It’s going to be a great time to be in the trades. Team Canada Strong is a nationwide effort that will get more young people into the trades and on the job, so we can build Canada strong for all,” said Carney.