On February 3, 2025, we submitted an important document to the Ontario Minister of Finance, the Hon. Peter Bethlenfalvy, outlining key priorities and recommendations for the upcoming provincial budget. This submission represents not just a list of requests but a comprehensive vision for a stronger, more sustainable Ontario.
This document is the product of extensive collaboration between members of OSPE’s task forces, who contributed valuable insights to ensure our recommendations address both immediate needs and long-term challenges. Their expertise shaped a submission we are truly proud of, one that will serve as both a platform for our advocacy and a navigation plan for advancing engineering priorities in 2025.
Highlights from Our Recommendations
Our submission covered a wide range of critical issues aimed at improving Ontario’s economic, environmental, and social outcomes. Some of the key areas of focus include:
1. Investing in Climate Resilience and Green Infrastructure
We called for funding to support climate-resilient infrastructure projects and decentralized water and wastewater systems. By addressing the challenges posed by extreme weather and growing populations, these investments will enhance community safety and sustainability while driving innovation in engineering practices.
2. Advancing Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
Our recommendations emphasize the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy, alongside advanced energy storage solutions. We also highlighted the importance of incentivizing energy efficiency programs and retrofits to reduce costs, improve energy security, and contribute to Ontario’s net-zero goals.
3. Supporting STEM Education and Workforce Development
To address the growing demand for engineers, we urged the government to fund programs that promote STEM education in underrepresented communities, including women and Indigenous groups. These programs will ensure a more inclusive and diverse workforce while helping meet Ontario’s future engineering needs.
4. Fostering Innovation and Economic Growth
Our submission included recommendations to support Ontario’s research and innovation ecosystem by funding engineering-driven solutions for key sectors such as clean technology, advanced manufacturing, and transportation. These investments will create jobs, attract talent, and maintain Ontario’s competitive edge in a rapidly evolving economy.
5. Enhancing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)
Recognizing the importance of a diverse and equitable profession, we proposed initiatives that promote EDI in engineering through mentorship programs, outreach efforts, and procurement practices that prioritize inclusion.
This submission is more than a standalone document; it is the foundation of our advocacy efforts for 2025. The recommendations outlined will guide our conversations with policymakers, MPPs, and other stakeholders as we work to ensure Ontario’s engineers are at the forefront of shaping the province’s future.
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