News

Our Apprenticeship Program Has Some Exciting Updates!

At Merit Ontario, we’re proud to announce that our Apprenticeship Program is growing—and we’re now sponsoring apprentices in nine skilled trades! This expansion means more opportunities for employers to train the next generation of skilled trades professionals with the full support of a trusted Group Sponsor. Whether you’re a small business or a larger construction […]

Working Well: Prioritizing Mental Health in Construction

Introduction May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It’s an important time to talk about mental health, especially in the construction industry. Many workers think only physical safety matters, but mental health is just as important. Yet, we don’t talk about it enough. Understanding Mental Health in Construction Construction workers face higher risks for mental health […]

Building a Safer Future Together: Supporting Construction Safety Week 2025

Construction Safety Week 2025 is here, and it’s a powerful reminder that safety is everyone’s responsibility — from apprentices to supervisors, from solo workers to entire teams. At Merit for Training, we’re proud to support this mission by offering accessible, practical safety training that empowers workers across the province. Below, we’ve highlighted how our training […]

Building an Inclusive Skilled Trades Workforce: W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind and Merit Ontario Partner to Expand Opportunities

 Merit for Training, a service of Merit OpenShop Contractors Association of Ontario (Merit Ontario), is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind and Partially Sighted aimed at increasing accessibility and equity in the skilled trades. As part of this collaboration, Merit Ontario has donated a heavy equipment simulator […]

The Link Between Employee Benefits and Job Satisfaction in Construction

In the competitive landscape of Ontario’s construction industry, employee satisfaction is pivotal for maintaining a skilled and committed workforce. A significant factor influencing job satisfaction is the provision of comprehensive employee benefits. This article delves into the correlation between employee benefits and job satisfaction within Canada’s construction sector, with a focus on Ontario, and highlights […]

Merit Ontario and Judith Nyman Secondary School Celebrate the Successful Launch of the ConstructED Centre

March 20, 2025 – Brampton, ON – Merit Ontario, in partnership with Judith Nyman Secondary School, successfully launched the Merit Ontario ConstructED Centre during a well-attended Open House event on March 18, 2025. The event marked a major step forward in skilled trades education, providing students with cutting-edge training tools and a hands-on approach to […]

Empowering Women in Trades: The Dirty Seahorse Revolutionizing Workwear

Women in construction have long battled challenges beyond the job site—one of the most overlooked being properly fitting workwear. For years, female tradespeople have had to make do with scaled-down versions of men’s gear, often sacrificing safety and comfort in the process. During Women in Construction Week 2025, we had the opportunity to speak with […]

Using Benefit Plans to Attract Top Construction Talent

In today’s competitive job market, offering strong benefit plans is essential for construction companies aiming to attract and keep the best workers. A well-designed benefits package not only makes a company more appealing but also shows a commitment to employee well-being. Why Are Benefit Plans Important? Many workers consider benefits a key factor when choosing […]

Maximizing Savings: The Advantages of Group Pooled Benefit Plans in Construction

In the construction industry, keeping costs low while ensuring employee satisfaction is essential. One effective way to achieve both is by enrolling in group pooled benefit plans. These plans allow multiple construction companies to combine their workforce into a single benefits pool, unlocking better coverage at lower costs. What Are Group Pooled Benefit Plans? Group […]