Skilled Trades Ontario was established in January 2022. Since then, we have hit the ground running to improve trades training and simplify services for tradespeople, employers and people across the province.
In partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, we launched a digital portal, which provides secure access to services, including how to apply for an apprenticeship, view exam results and renew Certificates of Qualification in compulsory trades. We will release additional online services in phases, with the goal of having all services online by 2025.
Our newly appointed Board of Directors recently met to discuss a wide range of topics related to the new Building Opportunities in the Skilled Trades Act (BOSTA), and the early strategic direction of Skilled Trades Ontario. The Board also passed key internal governance policies and established working groups to develop by-laws and oversight for the new agency.
Since January, Skilled Trades Ontario has responded to more than 70,000 phone calls and 4,200 e-mail inquiries. As well, in partnership with the Ministry and the Technical Standards & Safety Authority, work has begun to designate the gas fitter and oil burner technician trades under BOSTA.
Looking ahead, the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development has provided Skilled Trades Ontario with its first mandate letter, outlining its priorities for the 2022-23 fiscal year as well as medium and long-term goals. We invite you to read the letter here.
This is just the beginning. As we move forward, we look forward to working with our partners in government, industry and education to transform and improve the system for apprentices, tradespeople and skilled trades employers across Ontario.
Michael Sherrard, Board Chair
Melissa Young, CEO/Registrar