In partnership with Bird Construction, WalterFedy was selected by the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) to perform a site assessment and design a new trade school, associated parking lot and training yard.
With workforce changes and evolving technology, there is an increase in the need for specialized training. The facility’s objective is to offer an array of modern amenities to support IUOE’s operations and provide the means for existing and prospective professionals in the region to learn practical and specialized skills. Accordingly, it will include not only instructional and office space, but also a fully equipped training yard, simulation labs, and an operations garage—creating a comprehensive environment for both learning and hands-on practice.
In response to 1 in 3 tradespeople retiring in the coming years, the Ontario government committed $5 million into this project via the Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Stream. This program offers critical funding to support the construction of new training facilities, as well as the upgrading or conversion of existing ones, for emerging and in-demand jobs in Ontario’s key sectors. The modern amenities will support the union operations and training needs in the region, and will include an operations garage, classrooms, office space, a simulator room for training, and a banquet hall.