Latest news with #CWBFoundation
Cision Canada
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Cision Canada
CWB Foundation Launches National Welding Consumables Drive to Support Secondary Schools Across Canada Français
Fuel the Future: Welding Consumables Drive Aims to Equip the Next Generation of Skilled Trades Professionals with Essential Learning Materials MILTON, ON , July 15, 2025 /CNW/ - The CWB Foundation has launched a new national initiative to support Canadian secondary schools struggling to access welding consumables. The Fuel the Future: Welding Consumables Drive encourages industry partners to donate surplus welding materials such as wire, metal stock, and protective gear to schools in need. Each year, thousands of students across Canada enroll in high school welding, manufacturing, and transportation programs. These programs are critical to building the future workforce in the skilled trades and related technologies, yet nearly half report major barriers to providing hands-on training due to limited access to consumables. According to a recent survey conducted by the CWB Foundation, 44.8 percent of welding educators identified consumables as their greatest challenge. Without core materials like electrodes, filler wire, and PPE, students miss out on the practical experiences that prepare them for successful careers in industry. "Our goal is to support welding and related programs in a way that is sustainable and grounded in evidence," said Louise Charron, Manager, Fund and Partner Development at the CWB Foundation. "By donating surplus consumables, companies can make a real and immediate difference in classrooms across the country." Through its Equipment and Technology Advancement Program, the CWB Foundation connects donors with schools via its Consumables Notice Network, which alerts educators when donated materials become available nearby. The current list of high-need items includes: Mild steel, electrodes, and filler wire Grinding wheels and shielding gas Protective gear (gloves, jackets, helmets) Metal plate, rod, and stock (aluminum and stainless steel) Other filler materials and accessories "We are calling on manufacturers, suppliers, and welding shops across Canada to take a look at what they have on hand," said Joe Saundercook, Manager, Fund and Partner Development at the CWB Foundation. "Even small quantities of surplus materials can have a big impact in the classroom." To learn more or to make a donation, contact the CWB Foundation at [email protected]. About the CWB Foundation The CWB Foundation is a national charitable organization dedicated to advancing skilled trades careers, including welding and materials joining. Committed to preparing the future workforce and fostering inclusivity, we collaborate with partners to support the demand for skilled professionals, contributing to North America's economic prosperity. Our mission is to forge partnerships between industry, education, and government, empowering individuals to pursue careers in the skilled trades. Through innovative programs, we reduce barriers and promote awareness and access to career exploration, regardless of identity factors or social and financial status. Learn more about our initiatives at
Cision Canada
02-07-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
CWB Foundation Releases 2024-2025 Annual Report Showcasing Major Investments in Canada's Welding and Materials Joining Future Français
MILTON, ON, July 2, 2025 /CNW/ - The CWB Foundation has released its 2024–2025 Annual Report, capturing a year of growth, innovation, and national impact supporting welding and materials joining education across Canada. As part of its ongoing 10-Year Strategic Vision, the Foundation invested more than $5 million into programs and partnerships to reduce barriers, modernize technical education, and prepare the next generation of skilled welding professionals. Hands-on skilled trades training, educator support, and over $5 million in impact. See the future of welding education. Post this "This year's report reflects a coordinated effort to meet labour market needs while increasing access to quality training, particularly in rural, remote, and equity-deserving communities," says Susan Crowley, Executive Director of the CWB Foundation. "We're proud to work alongside partners who believe in the power of hands-on education to change lives." Highlights from the CWB Foundation 2024–2025 Annual Report include: Over 90 programs delivered in over 140 communities, including new initiatives in Prince Edward Island, the Northwest Territories, and Portland, Oregon. More than $1.65 million invested in secondary school programs through capital and equipment grants, safety equipment, and technical educator training. 196 participants completed pre-employment training through programs like Women of Steel™ and Mind Over Metal™ Workshops. 168 educators and career counsellors received upskilling and technical training, with 652 welder qualifications issued through pre-employment and upskilling programs. Participants in the Filling the Gap: Pressure Welder Training Program reported a 98 per cent employment rate after completion. There was a 24 per cent increase in high school welding program interest following CWB Foundation youth programming. Camps saw 27 per cent of participants self-identifying as female, while 16 per cent identified as Indigenous. The annual report also showcases powerful stories from the field, testimonials and case studies that show our impact in action. As the demand for skilled trades continues to grow in sectors like clean energy, infrastructure, marine, and advanced manufacturing, the CWB Foundation's strategic alignment with industry, government, and education remains essential. New efforts to standardize welding and materials joining education, expand virtual welding simulator access, and enhance post-secondary research partnerships position the CWB Foundation as a national leader in workforce development. To explore the full report and learn more about how the CWB Foundation is building a stronger, safer, and more inclusive future through welding and materials joining education, visit:
