The federal government is committing $6 billion to a nationwide skilled-trades recruitment, training and hiring program aimed at adding up to 100,000 Red Seal workers over five years.

The program, branded Team Canada Strong, was outlined by Prime Minister Mark Carney as part of the Spring Economic Update, positioning skilled trades as central to building infrastructure, housing, energy and defence projects amid shifting global trade dynamics. The initiative will focus on recruiting young Canadians into the trades, accelerating training and certification, and supporting apprenticeship completion through financial incentives and expanded capacity. Measures include $2 billion for paid, job-ready placements leading to apprenticeships, the launch of a Build Canada Apprenticeship Service offering up to $10,000 toward first-year apprentice salaries, and $331 million over five years to modernize training and digitize the Red Seal designation program.

Ottawa will also allocate $3.4 billion over five years to improve apprenticeship completion rates, including a $5,000 certification bonus and weekly $400 supports during in-class training, for total supports of up to $16,000 per apprentice on top of Employment Insurance. Additional investments include $250 million to expand skilled-trades training through the Canadian Armed Forces, enhancements to cadet and ranger programs, and a new Reserve Trades Experience pilot program offering fully funded training tied to reserve service. The plan aims to cut certification timelines by half while addressing labour shortages projected to exceed 1.4 million trades workers by 2033.

“Canada is building big – in ports, mines, railways, and millions more homes,” said Carney. “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.”

By launching Team Canada Strong, the government is opening new doors for young Canadians to serve their country and build meaningful careers,” said Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne.

“This initiative delivers real, paid pathways into the skilled trades – combining training with hands-on experience. It gives employers more opportunities to hire and mentor the next generation. It rewards achievement with a $5,000 bonus upon Red Seal certification.”

Above all, he added, Team Canada Strong invites young people to play a direct role in building a stronger Canada.”

Photo: Government of Canada