Ottawa/IBNS, Dec. 2 -- The federal government is investing nearly $20 million to expand training for skilled trades workers as Canada races to build major infrastructure and millions of new homes, Labour Secretary of State John Zerucelli announced Wednesday.

The funding will support training initiatives through the United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America and the Carpenters' Regional Council, with a focus on preparing workers for emerging technologies and sustainable construction methods.

The Carpenters' Regional Council will create access to 10 training hubs nationwide to train another 4,000 carpenters in new green-building installation and maintenance techniques.

The investment comes through the Union Training and Innova...