For more than a decade, SMART Local 30 (Toronto) members have been integral to the Darlington Nuclear Refurbishment project, contributing to the successful delivery of the world’s largest nuclear refurbishment to date. At peak activity, more than 130 Local 30 members were on site, providing their expertise in sheet metal, architectural cladding and roofing. They helped deliver the refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget, securing clean, reliable power for more than 3.5 million homes for decades to come.
Building on the success of the Darlington Refurbishment Project, the Ontario government has committed to refurbishing the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station and has reached an agreement to advance the next generation of nuclear development in Port Hope, Ontario, which will be the world’s largest nuclear generating station. Together, these landmark projects will provide long-term opportunities for Local 30 members, with workforce projections of approximately 120 members over the next eight years, supporting Ontario’s growing demand for affordable and dependable electricity.
With all this ongoing work, Local 30 members will continue to be on site at Darlington supporting the construction of Canada’s first Small Modular Reactor. While currently working alongside other trades to support ventilation systems in their work areas, their role will expand significantly as the project progresses. At peak construction, workforce demand is expected to reach approximately 60 members, as Local 30 will install the mechanical ductwork.
Fernando Canonico, chief steward for Local 30 on site at Darlington, noted that these projects have created stable opportunities for members over the past decade. As work has progressed, many members have grown with it, starting as apprentices and advancing into roles such as general forepersons, construction managers, contract monitors, holders of record and radiation protection coordinators. This long-term work has not only provided steady employment but has also supported career progression, allowing members to gain experience, take on new responsibilities and move into a wide range of managerial roles across the project.
This project has also been a major success due to the positive working relationship with Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and their ongoing collaboration with the unionized skilled trades on site. Canonico highlighted that all chief stewards share a trailer, allowing them to regularly assemble, coordinate and hold huddles together, with full support from OPG. This approach reflects the value of stewards and union collaboration in maintaining efficiency, safety and strong collaboration on the project.
With nuclear work set to continue well into the future, Local 30 members are also benefiting from projects across the Greater Toronto Area, including work at the Peter Gilgan Mississauga Hospital and the Ford manufacturing facility. According to Business Representative J.R. White, these projects are helping to provide steady, long-term employment opportunities for members while strengthening the local’s presence across key infrastructure sectors. He also highlighted the sizable organizing efforts led by Director of Organizing Chris Paswisty and his team, which have been instrumental in ensuring the local can supply a workforce to meet the contractor’s needs: Over 200 members have been organized and 18 new companies signed so far this year.
Local 30 remains busy across Ontario, contributing a skilled workforce to a wide range of major projects and communities. From nuclear and health care to industrial construction, members continue to play a key role in building critical infrastructure and supporting the province’s long-term growth.