Canada launches Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Alliance

The Canadian federal government has launched the Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Alliance (AMWA) to strengthen the skilled labour force within the country’s advanced manufacturing sector. Announced by Minister of Jobs and Families Patty Hajdu, the initiative aims to prepare workers for emerging technologies, including robotics and artificial intelligence, to maintain global competitiveness.

The AMWA will function as a collaborative platform involving manufacturers, labour organizations, educational institutions, industry groups, Indigenous partners, and representatives from underrepresented communities. These partners will work together to identify workforce shortages and implement practical training programs.

This initiative is the second of six planned industry-specific workforce alliances by the federal government, following the launch of the Mining and Minerals Workforce Alliance. Ken Delaney, Executive Director of the Canadian Skills Training and Employment Coalition, noted that the alliance will help the sector address challenges such as international competition, shifting demographics, and technological disruptions.