Layoff Aversion Program (LAP)

CSTEC and the Future Skills Centre (FSC) have partnered to deliver layoff aversion approaches to manufacturers across Ontario. The goal is to prevent or reduce the duration of unemployment due to layoffs during unstable economic conditions.

With this layoff aversion program, CSTEC is helping employers retain valued production workers whose job security is at risk of erosion due to rolling or permanent layoffs.  Supported by through funding from the Future Skills Centre, CSTEC’s signature blend of on-the-ground industry and training experience is now connecting this initiative with up to 25 small and medium-sized auto industry employers that are seeking to avert or minimize layoffs.

Innovative and applied research from the FSC informs this layoff aversion initiative by incorporating the future skills needs of participating employers and employees.

In both unionized and non-unionized workplaces:

  • participating employers are provided with funds to pay for short-term skills training for certain employees
  • participating employers are provided with funds to transition other production employees into skilled trades apprenticeships
  • funding can also be applied to help the work of human resources staff who ensure the initiative is meeting its goals
  • The FSC-CSTEC partnership is producing the GEAR suitability assessment, which helps workers and job seekers identify potential occupations aligned with their work style and environment fit.

Up to 225 employees are currently participating in the training made possible by this FSC-CSTEC partnership.

For more information, please contact mary@cstec.ca.