Ontario Invests $1.3 Million in Truck Driver Training for Underrepresented Groups

The Women's Trucking Federation of Canada (WTFC) has received a $1.3 million investment from the government of Ontario to provide free truck driver training for underrepresented communities in the industry.

The Bridging the Gaps in Trucking program will offer 200 hours of training to 54 women, newcomers, and other underrepresented groups, helping them obtain AZ or DZ licenses and find employment. Premier Doug Ford announced this initiative on June 27 in Ayr, Ont.

With only 2% of truck drivers in Ontario being women, this investment aims to address the historic labor shortage in the industry and boost the economy, according to Shelley Walker, CEO of WTFC.

To remove barriers to entry, participants will receive financial support for transportation, childcare, equipment, and a weekly allowance. This funding is not limited to women but extends to all underrepresented groups in the trucking industry, including youth at risk, as emphasized by Walker.

The program will include soft skills training and in-truck training at various locations. Upon completion, participants will have a four-week job placement with a carrier group selected by WTFC. The government's investment comes from the Skills Development Fund, a $700 million initiative to support job seekers in acquiring the necessary skills for well-paid employment.

Ontario's commitment to the trucking sector will continue, with further investments in training and opportunities for individuals to earn bigger paychecks, said Monte McNaughton, the minister of labor, immigration, training, and skills development.

The WTFC is currently accepting applications for the training program, and carriers interested in providing job placements can contact them via email at programs@wtfc.ca. 

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