Ontario investing heavily in the next-gen workforce
The Ontario government, through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), is taking a pivotal step to address workforce challenges and empower future generations of talent to power the shift to electrification with the launch of a Critical Minerals Talent Strategy.
Developed by OVIN in partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development; the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade; the Ministry of Northern Development; the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs; and the Ministry of Mines, the Critical Minerals Talent Strategy provides labour market and policy insights to reinforce Ontario’s leadership in the development of a resilient, end-to-end EV and battery supply chain. Building on Ontario’s Critical Minerals Strategy 2022–2027, the Critical Minerals Talent Strategy features a comprehensive study of anticipated workforce needs brought on by the EV transition, challenges faced by underrepresented groups in the workforce, and opportunities for talent development.
The Critical Minerals Talent Strategy supports Ontario’s vision of a future-ready workforce primed to meet the evolving needs of the automotive and mobility sector, reinforcing the province’s position as a global leader in responsibly sourced critical minerals. It promotes key practices such as early engagement to raise awareness of opportunities among the next generation of talent; increasing access to training and education programs; meaningful engagement of women and other underrepresented groups; and establishing long-term mutually-beneficial partnerships with Indigenous communities.
Recognizing a growing demand to leverage Ontario’s rich critical minerals supply to support the shift to electrification, this Talent Strategy offers short- to long-term labour forecasts and recommendations for fulfilling a projected need of over 3,000 new workers by the year 2040. Informed by insights from stakeholders in the mining industry, postsecondary institutions, training providers, and Indigenous communities in Northern Ontario, the Talent Strategy provides a roadmap for attracting and retaining talent and developing a sustainable, highly skilled workforce.
Learn more:
Talent Strategy for the Critical Minerals Sector in Ontario—Impact Report
Talent Strategy for the Critical Minerals Sector in Ontario—Strategic and Policy Insights Report
Tags: Northern Ontario / Government / Battery Metals / All Articles