Confederation College Approved to Deliver General Machinist Apprenticeship Training

Confederation College has received approval from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to deliver the classroom training component of the General Machinist apprenticeship program, 429A, at its Thunder Bay campus.

The approval allows Confederation College to provide apprenticeship training in accordance with the curriculum standard established for the General Machinist trade. The Ministry’s review considered the College’s proposal, facilities, equipment, and the effect the program offering will have on the overall purchase of apprenticeship training.

Machinists play an important role in manufacturing, repair, and production environments, using specialized tools and equipment to produce precision parts and components. The addition of this apprenticeship training supports regional workforce needs and expands access to skilled trades training in northwestern Ontario.

“Confederation College is proud to expand skilled trades programming in response to regional and industry demand,” said Michelle Salo, President of Confederation College. “This approval strengthens our ability to support workforce development in northwestern Ontario and prepare apprentices with the hands-on training they need to succeed in high-demand careers.”

The approval designates Confederation College as a Training Delivery Agent for the General Machinist apprenticeship program at the Thunder Bay campus. To maintain this status, the College must deliver the training at least once every five years.

“This approval reflects the strength of our trades and apprenticeship facilities, equipment, and training expertise,” said Andrew Phillips, Associate Dean, Trades and Apprenticeship at Confederation College. “General Machinist training is an important addition to our apprenticeship offerings and will help meet the needs of employers looking for skilled workers in precision machining and manufacturing.”

Confederation College will work with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development on future course purchases and delivery planning. The approval does not guarantee the purchase of classroom training.

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Confederation College has been serving the citizens of northwestern Ontario since 1967, providing transformative education across a vast 550,000 square kilometre region. Our main campus in Thunder Bay, together with seven regional sites in Dryden, Longlac, Kenora, Marathon, Fort Frances, Red Lake, and Sioux Lookout, and an expanding Distance Education division, open pathways to personal advancement and professional achievement for over 7,000 full- and part-time students each year. With 600+ staff, we drive personal and community growth, contributing significantly to the local economy with a $707.3 million annual impact. At Confederation College, we champion the spirit of courage, advocating for actions and decisions that empower our community; we uphold the principle of equity, ensuring fair access and opportunity for all to realize their potential; and we value and cultivate relationships that foster collaboration and understanding among students, staff, and the communities we serve.

 For more information, please contact: 

Scott Hobbs, Communications Consultant 
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 807-475-6295 | Cell: 807-621-5265