Toronto Pearson, United Way and Peel Region launch job pilot for workers hit by economic disruption

Toronto Pearson, United Way Greater Toronto and Peel Region announced on 9 November 2026 a joint workforce investment to connect workers with new job opportunities across the Pearson Economic Zone, the employment area around the airport, starting with a one-year pilot called Peel Gateway for Employment.

The pilot, which begins in autumn 2026, will initially support about 200 workers affected by economic disruption, including people laid off at Stellantis in Brampton and other automotive and manufacturing workers. It offers career coaching, skills development, employment preparation and job placement support. The airport contributes its employer relationships and knowledge of regional labour demand, United Way its community reach and expertise, and Peel Region its workforce system and funding role. The partners say they will work with employers, labour, community agencies and training providers, and that details of further projects will follow.

Toronto Pearson president and chief executive Deborah Flint linked the move to trade and tariff uncertainty, saying the partners were "responding with immediate action to the pressure felt by workers and businesses". The initiative was launched at an event at the Unifor Power Centre in Brampton.

The announcement concerns the airport's role in the regional labour market rather than flights or passenger services, and it does not change airport operations. The release does not name the employers that will take on participants or say how many placements are expected.