January 17, 2025

Barrie, ON – Georgian College has unveiled plans to expand its Centre for Skilled Trades at the College’s Barrie Campus – transforming the existing space to help sustain and grow the highly skilled trades workforce the Simcoe region needs for a strong, sustainable and green future.

The expansion, designed by Diamond Schmitt, will modernize the existing building and add approximately 20,000 square feet of space with features that support the development of a future-ready skilled trades workforce in robotics, artificial intelligence, and advanced digital technologies.

Highlights include a new lab for heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning, major renovations to the lab for carpentry and machining programs, significant upgrades to carpentry and machining labs, and energy-efficient designs. An addition of second and third floors will create collaborative spaces with energy-efficient designs to foster innovation and learning 

This initiative aligns with the County of Simcoe's regional economic development strategies to strengthen the skilled trades sector and address workforce demands. With projections from Ontario’s Ministry of Labour estimating one in six job openings will be in skilled trades by 2026, the timing of this investment is key.

“For almost 60 years, Georgian has been an experienced and trusted workforce development partner, and we know how important the skilled trades are to a variety of sectors in our region,” said Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College. 

Recognized internationally for excellence in machining and CNC training, Georgian College offers over 39 skilled trades programs across its campuses in Barrie, Midland, Muskoka, and Owen Sound. These include diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeship training designed to meet evolving workforce needs, today and into the future. The expanded facility in Barrie alone will support approximately 1,000 students each academic year, with capacity to welcome more. 

"Being industry-connected with our partners is essential to building a strong economic future in our region,” said Dr. Rebecca Sabourin, Dean, Engineering and Environmental Technologies, Skilled Trades. “Georgian’s community partners play a critical role in helping our students and graduates further develop their skills and paving the way for fulfilling careers. Together, we’re helping to create diverse pathways that will ensure the optimal talent pipeline for thriving communities.”

Read the full press release here.