April 2021
Utilizing the Canada Ontario Job Grant to help build a highly-trained workforce
You have probably seen Grid Link workers and equipment carrying out infrastructure construction and maintenance projects throughout our region. Grid Link primarily services the Electrical, Power Utility, Railway, Pipeline and Telecommunications sectors in Northern Ontario. Their diverse and dedicated team operates one of the largest mechanical shops and heavy-equipment fleets in the region.
Grid Link focuses on training its workforce to promote safety and efficiency on the job. The Canada-Ontario Job Grant is designed to support this type of training. The YES Employer Services team supports employers through the application process and also provides COJG monitoring and administration.
Grid Link Controller, Len Arbour worked with Tracy Laffin to submit several successful applications for training that is vital to the company’s operations. From specific certifications required to work on CN Property, to Underground Hardrock Mine and Core training, to Electrical training, to specialized Health and Safety training, COJG was able to support the company with their training purchases. “My experience with YES has been nothing but positive.” Arbour said, “The Employer Services team provides guidance and timely responses to make the COJG application process easy to navigate. The support provided by this grant helps us ensure that our team remains highly trained and safety-focused.”
COJG funding focuses on helping businesses develop a highly trained workforce. For workers, the right training can lead to promotions, pay-raises and moving from part-time to full-time, and from seasonal to year-round employment. Here is a summary of what the grant can provide:
| Large Employers (100 or more employees) The grant can provide up to 1/2 of the eligible training cost up to a maximum of $10,000 per individual. | Small Employers (100 or fewer employees) The grant can provide up to 5/6 of the eligible training costs to a maximum of $15,000 per trainee.* |
*New hires may be eligible for 100% of training costs (taxes not covered)
The economic ripples from the pandemic have had a significant impact on local businesses and YES is here to help you access support. If your business could benefit from training support through the Canada Ontario Job Grant, contact Tracy Laffin tlaffin@yesjobsnow.com. For additional information, visit our COJG Webpage.
YES is hosting a virtual event during Youth Week
Click this Youth Week graphic to sign up for the exciting events planned for Youth Week 2021. Looking for a summer job? Join us for our virtual workshop: Summer Job Search Checklist. Topics covered range from setting a job goal, to preparing a competitive resume, to conducting an effective virtual interview. Register through the Youth Week portal, or click and join directly from our YES Events webpage.