Lambton College has joined a new provincial coalition focused on protecting Ontario’s economy and preparing workers for a changing labour market.
The Ontario Regional Economic Workforce and Innovation Network (OREWIN) brings together 11 small, northern and rural colleges across the province to support regional industries, expand skilled trades training, and respond to shifting U.S.-Canada trade dynamics.
“Small, northern and rural colleges are already key drivers of Ontario’s economic success, and this partnership reinforces our commitment to driving Ontario’s critical industries forward,” said George Burton, OREWIN Chair and President of Canadore College.
The coalition will support the province’s workforce and infrastructure priorities through several key initiatives, including:
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Contributing to a $705 million provincial investment to expand skilled trades and STEM training capacity.
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Helping deliver $22 billion in new infrastructure projects.
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Training over one million skilled trades workers under Ontario’s $2.5 billion training plan.
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Supporting the Ontario Labour Market Survey to ensure local workforce needs are reflected.
“This partnership will leverage Lambton College’s commitment to creating opportunities for local businesses, fostering economic development, and providing hands-on training for students,” said Rob Kardas, President & CEO of Lambton College.
He said the initiative will help strengthen the link between colleges and industry by training workers in areas such as renewable energy, manufacturing, and other critical sectors.
OREWIN includes: Cambrian, Canadore, Collège Boréal, Collège La Cité, Confederation, Fleming, Lambton, Loyalist, Northern, St. Lawrence, and Sault colleges. Colleges Ontario will support the network’s work and ongoing collaboration across the college system.
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