Ontario Streamlining Pathways for Veterans into Skilled Trades

Our veterans protect our country and preserve our freedom. We owe them a fulfilling civilian life to return to once their military service is complete.

We are proposing to make it easier for veterans and families to start their next careers in the trades. These proposals include:

Changes to the Fair Access to Regulated Professions and Compulsory Trades Act, 2006 (FARPCTA): to accelerate credential recognition for veterans and military spouses who are licensed trade professionals from out of province, but within Canada.

Changes to the Building Opportunities in the Skilled Trades Act, 2021 (BOSTA): to formally recognize nine military trade credentials for their civilian trade equivalent, which would streamline the process for CAF members and veterans to obtain their Certificate of Qualification for certain compulsory trades and begin working sooner. CAF members, spouses, and veterans would also be able to access employment services prior to moving to Ontario, to help secure careers locally in their communities.

Ontario is also building on Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) processes at publicly-assisted colleges and universities, to recognize the valuable learning experiences of veterans of Canada’s Armed Forces. This will ensure they benefit from taking less time to complete their degrees or diplomas, and pay less tuition, while employers gain access to more highly skilled workers sooner.

In addition to the proposed changes, Ontario is investing $2.4 million through the Skills Development Fund (SDF) to provide free training through Coding for veterans and the Roland Gossage Foundation for CAF members and veterans in tech and cybersecurity careers.

During Remembrance Week (November 5-11), the province is honouring veterans by working to expand provincial recognition, enhance community and financial supports, and support career pathways for veterans and military families.