As Ontario heads toward the next provincial election, the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) is calling on policymakers to prioritize engineering-driven solutions that will shape the province’s future.
Engineers are at the forefront of solving today’s most pressing challenges whether in infrastructure, energy, climate resilience, or digital security. Now more than ever, Ontario needs bold, strategic investments that leverage engineering expertise to build a stronger, more sustainable, and more inclusive future.
OSPE has outlined 5 priority areas that policymakers must incorporate into their platforms. These address urgent challenges while positioning the province for long-term success.
Five Key Priorities for Ontario’s Future
1. Strengthening Ontario’s Infrastructure, Transportation, and Housing
- Ontario must modernize its infrastructure, transit, and housing to drive sustainable economic growth.
- Prioritizing quality in engineering services through Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) will ensure long-term resilience in public projects.
- Expanding transit networks and investing in intelligent transportation systems (ITS) will ease congestion and improve accessibility, while green building incentives and zoning reforms will enhance affordability and sustainability, reducing the sector’s environmental footprint.
2. Advancing Clean Energy and Climate Resilience
- Ontario must invest in smart grids, renewable energy expansion, and thermal energy storage to enhance energy security, efficiency, and sustainability.
- Strengthening flood-resistant and fireproof construction, stormwater management, and infrastructure retrofitting will protect communities from extreme weather and strengthen long-term resilience.
3. Driving Innovation in Green Technologies and Emerging Industries
- Ontario must lead in cleantech, decentralized water and wastewater solutions, and sustainable infrastructure to ensure long-term economic and environmental security.
- Strengthening cybersecurity, ethical AI governance, and digital infrastructure will position Ontario as a leader in the secure and responsible development of emerging technologies.
4. Expanding Education, Workforce Development, and Equity in Engineering
- Building a skilled and diverse workforce is key to Ontario’s future. Expanding STEM education, workforce training, and inclusion programs will help meet the province’s growing demand for engineers.
- Implementing the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act recommendations will ensure engineering workplaces, education programs, and infrastructure are inclusive and accessible to all Ontarians.
5. Strengthening Public Health Through Clean Indoor Air and Sustainable Communities
- Ontario must prioritize indoor air quality and environmental health through a Clean Indoor Air Act to regulate air quality, improve ventilation, and raise public awareness.
- Investing in sustainable and accessible infrastructure will create healthier, more livable communities for all residents.
While these five priorities highlight urgent opportunities, OSPE’s vision for Ontario’s future extends further. For a full list of OSPE’s recommendations and a deeper dive into how engineers can shape Ontario’s future, refer to our detailed policy document.
OSPE is urging all political parties to incorporate these critical components into their election platforms. Engineering expertise is essential to building a province that is competitive, inclusive and resilient.
Leave a Comment