Congratulations are in order to the Toronto Argonauts who won the Grey Cup over the weekend in Vancouver! It was remarkable to watch Argo's quarterback, Nick Arbuckle – who nearly quit playing last year – jump in and complete 252 passing yards to deliver his team to CFL dominance. A shoutout to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, who had a great season and came up just a little short in their quest for a 3rd cup in 5 years.
With the Grey Cup in the rearview, there's no mistaking that chill in the air – winter is coming. We've put together a helpful post to assist our members working outdoors in identifying the signs of hypothermia. As Canadians, we're proud of our cold-tolerance, but know the signs, dress warmly in layers, and stay safe.
Sadly, last week Canada experienced a great loss with the passing of former BC Premier John Horgan. John was a champion for workers' rights and fought for fair wages and the development of sustainable infrastructure. Beyond the skilled trades, John was dedicated to improving the lives of every person who lived in B.C. He was a great Canadian, and he will be greatly missed.
Have a safe weekend,
Sean
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
CBTU was honored to attend the annual Sam Lawrence Dinner at the Workers Arts and Heritage Centre in Hamilton. Established over 25 years ago by a passionate group of labour historians, artists, union members, and community activists, the Centre stands as Canada’s only museum dedicated to labour history. The Workers Arts and Heritage Centre celebrates our rich history and the vital contributions of workers in shaping our country’s past and future.
CBTU’s Board Chair, Robert Kucheran, was joined by Executive Director Sean Strickland and Director of Business Development Joe Piazza to support this meaningful event. We are proud to commit to a three-year donation in support of the Centre and are honored that our contribution will be recognized with CBTU's name displayed in their Great Hall.
Sean Strickland and Nathan Carr recently attended the 30th annual State of the Relationship event in Ottawa, hosted by the Canadian American Business Council. This event celebrated the vital partnership between Canada and the United States, emphasizing the job opportunities created for our members on both sides of the border.
Our nations rely on one another for energy, trade, and transportation, as well as for the infrastructure that connects us—and the skilled workers who build it. CBTU recognizes the strength of our bilateral ties and our shared commitment to mutual prosperity, security, and growth. We take pride in representing 14 international affiliates working across North America to develop and sustain the infrastructure both countries need.
Top Left: Workers Arts & Heritage Centre Top Right: Sean Strickland in conversation with US Ambassador to Canada, David Cohen, and Canadian Ambassador to US, Kirsten Hillman Lower Left: Minister of Labour, Steve MacKinnon with Sean Strickland. Lower Right:State of the Relationship hosts, Ambassador Cohen and Ambassador Hillman.
DARLINGTON AHEAD OF SCHEDULE
We're excited to share some great news from the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station – the refurbishment of Unit 1 was completed a remarkable five months ahead of schedule.
This significant accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and expertise of thousands of Ontario's skilled tradespeople; their hard work and world-class skills have made this project a success!
This early completion will not only deliver clean energy to Ontario but also strengthen our economy and contribute to a sustainable future – congratulations to all involved in this milestone and 'Thank You' to the tradespeople who made it possible.
CBTU is thrilled to announce a $3 million investment from the Ontario government over the next three years to support Helmets to Hardhats Canada. This funding will help veterans transition smoothly into rewarding careers in the unionized skilled trades. Click here to read more.
In partnership with the Government of Alberta, Helmets to Hardhats has launched the Skilled Pathway Program. This initiative is designed to help Alberta's veterans, reservists, and their immediate families transition into fulfilling careers within the unionized construction industry. Based on a successful program in Ontario, they will provide participants with essential training and certifications, such as Working at Heights and First Aid, as well as leadership training for safety management.
The Skilled Pathway Program will aim to place 40 veterans into apprenticeships, and participants will receive safety equipment, underscoring the deep commitment to creating meaningful career opportunities for veterans in the skilled trades.
Helmets to Hardhats Canada is an integral program that provides veterans with the skills and training they need to succeed in the construction industry. This investment will allow the program to accelerate participant pathways, ensuring a quicker transition into well-paying jobs.
CBTU is proud to support Helmets to Hardhats Canada and looks forward to continuing our partnership to help veterans build a brighter future.
Follow the "Read More" link below to learn more about the Skilled Pathway Program.
