New Tecumseth seeks post-secondary partner for trades and tech training  

 

Posted February 19, 2026

​​

New Tecumseth is preparing to issue a Request for Expression of Interest (“EOI”) seeking a post-secondary partner to develop or co-develop a trades and technology training centre within the town.

​

The EOI would be issued March 2, in collaboration with Simcoe County and interested local industry partners.

​

"This initiative aims to address growing workforce needs, support regional economic development, and provide meaningful career pathways for students through a long-term, collaborative, and community-integrated partnership," according to the report to be presented to council Monday (Feb. 23). "Note that the intent of this project is to be collaboratively funded through the Town, the County, the Industry Partner(s) and additional grants. Any contributions from these parties will be at the discretion of their councils and boards."

​

Simcoe County’s Economic Development Strategy has identified labour is one of the most significant barriers to business growth, a direct impact in New Tecumseth, home to several major employers, whose labour gap in its industrial base, includes 1,491 fewer workers than jobs in manufacturing and utilities.

 

"As the town prepares for substantial residential and commercial growth, this labour shortage extends beyond manufacturing into the construction sector, where access to skilled trades will be essential to meeting housing targets and ensuring that planned developments can proceed efficiently and sustainably."

​

Responses will be considered using the following criteria:

• Vision and alignment with regional goals.

• Feasibility and innovation of execution plan.

• Use of technology and non-traditional learning methods (e.g., Virtual tools).

• Strength of collaboration strategy.

• Clarity of responsibilities and resource requirements.

• Institutional experience and reputation.

• Long-term sustainability outlook.

• Contribution to and integration with local communities, addressing relevant social issues (local job creation, improving community well being, underrepresented residents etc...).

​

While the EOI is expected to generate interest, it is not binding, and only the start of a process that would also need to identify what the successful school would expect from the Town and its partners, including physical space, monetary contributions.​

​

​Click link to view full report https://shorturl.at/mwSxK