SkillPlan welcomes Secretary of State John Zerucelli’s funding announcement under the Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP) on February 6, 2026, and thanks Employment and Social Development Canada for its continued support of high-quality skilled trades training across Canada. Nearly $10 million will be invested in the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers (IAHFIAW) to expand high-efficiency training for approximately 1,800 apprentices and journeypersons across locals throughout Canada. This investment will equip workers with advanced energy-efficiency skills that reduce energy consumption, strengthen Red Seal trades and support Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. By investing in high-quality training, this funding helps ensure Canada’s skilled trades workforce is prepared for the future of sustainable construction and energy efficiency.
“A strong and resilient Canadian economy requires skilled tradespeople, and this announcement delivers the training and tools they need to succeed,” said Kyle Downie, CEO of SKillPlan. ”Through this national training system, SkillPlan will work alongside our partners, including IAHFIAW and local unions, Canada’s Building Trades Unions, Social Research Demonstration Corporation and the Climate Industry Research Team to help build a more sustainable Canada.”
Read the full news release: Training more than 1,800 Canadian workers to help build Canada strong
About SkillPlan
SkillPlan is a nationally recognized leader in workforce development programming. A non-profit organization with over 30 years of experience, SkillPlan designs customized workforce development solutions, including products, tools and services for unions, contractors, trainers and workers to help organizations and workers reach their goals. SkillPlan serves 14 international building trades unions and their affiliated contractors and training providers, and numerous private and public technical training institutions. Every year, SkillPlan supports tens of thousands of apprentices in succeeding in their trade certification and Red Seal programs.