In response to significant job losses at Algoma Steel, a peer-driven support hub called the Steelworker POWER Action Centre will open soon

NEWS RELEASE

UNITED STEELWORKERS

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The United Steelworkers (USW) and the Canadian Skills Training and Employment Coalition (CSTEC) are launching the Steelworker POWER Action Centre to assist workers affected by recent Algoma Steel layoffs.

The project, which is funded by the Government of Ontario, starts Dec. 15.

The Steelworker POWER Action Centre will support affected workers through individualized action plans based on their needs. Services include job-search assistance, short-term training, guidance on employment insurance and training eligibility, and referrals to community agencies where appropriate.

A peer-driven, drop-in location will soon open at 68 Dennis St., providing in-person support. The exact opening date will be announced shortly. Impacted workers can register for assistance here. 

A CSTEC representative or a member of the Steelworker POWER Action Centre’s team will follow up directly.

“Whether it’s technological change, market instability or unfair trade actions that cause major disruptions, workers deserve timely, reliable support. The Steelworker POWER Action Centre will play a crucial role in ensuring people receive the help they need during this difficult transition,” said Ken Delaney, executive director of CSTEC.

“Steelworkers stand together in moments of uncertainty. When workers visit the Steelworker POWER Action Centre, they will meet peers who understand the stress and trauma of sudden job loss. The centre will ensure Steelworkers in Sault Ste. Marie received the support, training, and pathways needed to rebuild and move forward,” said Kevon Stewart, Director of United Steelworkers District 6.

“With workers in Sault Ste. Marie facing layoffs because of President Trump’s tariffs, our government is acting quickly to make sure they aren’t left behind,” said David Piccini, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

“We have begun to stand up the Steelworker POWER Centre in just days, faster than any previous centre, so we can protect impacted workers and make sure they immediately get the supports, training and wrap-around services they need to get back on their feet.

“We’re going to keep fighting for steelworkers in Sault Ste. Marie and across Ontario who have been impacted by tariffs, including by ensuring that we are using Ontario steel whenever and however we can in our more than $220 billion provincial infrastructure plan, and pushing the federal government to do the same in its infrastructure and procurement spending,” Piccini said.

CSTEC has more than 40 years of experience supporting industrial workers affected by plant closures, downsizing and labour-market disruption. As a long-time partner of the Steelworkers, CSTEC has helped thousands of workers navigate layoffs, access retraining, transition to skilled trades and secure new employment.

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