25% of factory workers are aged 55+, with an expected 22,500 retirements per year through 2033.
Years of ageSmart Manufacturing Training Program.
A 19-week, fully funded program preparing the next generation of skilled workers — people like you — to support Ontario's manufacturing sector as it shifts from outdated practices to smart manufacturing standards.
Start DateOctober 2025
Duration19 weeks
CostFree for eligible participants
CertificationGeorge Brown College + GlobalDWS
Spots62 open for cohort
Why this matters now
A booming market, and a workforce gap Ontario needs to close.
The global smart manufacturing market is booming. To keep up with the global forecast, manufacturing companies in Ontario need workers with the right skills to leverage these new technologies.
Global smart manufacturing market size in 2024.
Fortune Business InsightsMarket to almost triple by 2032, to $998.99 billion.
Fortune Business InsightsThe global smart manufacturing market is booming — valued at $349.8 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $998.99 billion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights.
Whether you're starting a new career, re-entering the workforce, or already working in manufacturing and looking to upskill, this is your opportunity to get access to fully funded training to be part of Ontario's smart manufacturing future.
Why choose this program
Built with employer input, delivered with career support.
GlobalDWS has designed this unique skill development program to help prepare the next generation of skilled workers to support Ontario's manufacturing sector and strengthen our global competitiveness.
Practical skills
Train with the latest tools used in smart manufacturing — not just theory.
Stand out to employers
Learn what companies are hiring for right now, drawn from real employer input.
Expert guidance
Work directly with industry professionals and subject-matter experts throughout.
Career support
Resume building, interview prep, and job-search assistance toward the end of the program.
Industry exposure
Receive job opportunity newsletters, site visits, and connections with employers.
Real careers, real workplaces
Graduates step straight into Ontario manufacturing teams.
What you'll learn
Six in-demand areas, built with industry input.
This program is built with direct input from employers and uses real-world projects to ensure you're ready for the job market. You'll learn exactly what today's companies need — not just theory, but practical, in-demand skills.
The program includes a mix of online and hands-on training, sessions with industry experts, and site visits to manufacturing facilities.
Robotics, AI & Machine Learning
Apply intelligent systems to factory-floor problems.
Advanced Data Analytics & Visualization
Turn shop-floor data into operational decisions.
Additive Manufacturing
3D printing and digital fabrication for production.
Industrial IoT & Smart Sensors
Connected devices and data flows on the floor.
Digital Twin Technologies
Virtual models that mirror real-world systems.
Cybersecurity & Sustainability
Protect operations and reduce environmental impact.
Career paths
Where this can take you.
This training prepares you for in-demand jobs in advanced manufacturing and technology — the roles employers across Ontario are actively hiring for as the sector transitions.
Smart Manufacturing Technician
Robotics Operator
Industrial Automation Specialist
Maintenance Technologist
Quality Assurance Technician
Data Analyst
Who can apply
You may qualify for fully funded training.
The program is completely free for eligible participants. We are thankful to the Government of Ontario for providing support through their Skill Development Fund.
checkEligibility
You may qualify for this fully funded program if you:
- Are a resident in Ontario.
- Are a recent graduate, unemployed, underemployed, or looking to grow your skills.
- Are currently working in manufacturing and want to upgrade your skills.
starWe especially encourage
Applications from individuals who identify as:
- Women
- Youth (ages 18–29)
- Indigenous peoples
- Racialized individuals
- Persons with disability
- Members of the LGBTQ+ community
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you apply.
Still have questions after this? Reach out through the application form and a real human will reply within two business days.
What is the Smart Manufacturing Training Program, and who is it for?+
GlobalDWS is offering a 19-week, fully funded training program, designed to prepare Ontario residents for high-demand careers in the manufacturing sector. It's ideal for job seekers including recent graduates, mid-career changers, and underemployed individuals looking to participate in the transition to smart manufacturing jobs.
What will I learn during the program?+
You'll gain practical, job-ready skills in areas such as robotics, industrial IoT, automation, cybersecurity, additive manufacturing, digital twin technologies, and advanced data analytics. The program includes a mix of online and hands-on training, hearing from industry experts and site visits to manufacturing facilities.
How much does the program cost?+
The program is completely free for eligible participants. We are thankful to the Government of Ontario for providing support through their Skill Development Fund.
What kind of support will I receive during and after the program?+
GlobalDWS will provide guidance and support to ensure student success and completion of all training modules. The program is designed with employer input to ensure alignment with real-world skills training and hiring needs. Towards the end of the program, participants will also receive personalized career support including resume building, interview preparation, and job search assistance.
How do I apply, and are there limited spots?+
Applications are only accepted through the GlobalDWS online web form. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as the online application is available. There are 62 spots open for this program.
Apply · Cohort 01 spots remaining
Be part of Ontario's smart manufacturing future.
Applications are accepted through our online form. There are 62 spots open for this cohort — candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Funded by
Government of Ontario, through the Skill Development Fund. Certification jointly issued by George Brown College and GlobalDWS.