Yves Landry Foundation’s Legacy Comes to an End, Recognizing Collective Voices in Spurring Skills Innovation for Canada’s Manufacturing Sector
As 2024 comes to an end, we are announcing the closing of the Yves Landry Foundation. After much consideration, the Board of Directors has made the collective decision to wind down our operations. For nearly three decades, the Foundation has rallied many resources, evolving based on funding availability, industry needs and new training methods, holding a unique leadership role in stimulating the talents of the manufacturing sector. We have laid the foundation for others to continue our legacy and shape the next era of skills innovation delivery.
In November of 1998, a group of leaders in Canada’s manufacturing and business sectors established the Yves Landry Foundation in honour of G. Yves Landry, president and CEO of Chrysler Canada Ltd throughout the 1990s. The early days were devoted to the automotive sector under partnership with the APMA (Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association) to recognize and celebrate advances in the automotive space. Since the early days, the Foundation has always upheld Yves’ long-standing visionary nature to forge partnerships between industry and education to train workers with the skills necessary to create economic competitive advantage for the country.
In the early 2000s, the Foundation expanded its mandate to include all manufacturing and related industries in Ontario, remaining focused on advancing technological education and skills training to resolve the skilled labour and technical professional shortages facing the Canadian manufacturing industry. And for 26 years, the Foundation has led the charge as an impartial intermediary and advocate to ensure investments in skills development was accessible to spur innovation and sustain top technical status globally.
“In November of 1998, YLF was formed. In November of 2024, we are announcing our closure. There have been many changes since I joined in 2008 and what I know for sure, is that change is the only constant. The staff, board of directors and the Landry family are truly grateful for the relationships we have formed, the partnerships created and lives we have touched. While YLF will no longer be part of enabling the manufacturing sector, we will watch the next chapter of growth and innovation from the sidelines with admiration.” – Karyn Brearley, Executive Director
It is with much pride that we look back on the phenomenal achievements gained over the past 26 years. Our visionary initiatives would not have been possible without the unwavering trust, commitment and determination of our fellow advocates. It is because of our collective voices, that together, we have made significant contributions to the individuals, small-medium size manufacturing enterprises and the sector at large.
“As Board Chair, I extend my sincere appreciation for the loyalty and resiliency of the staff team and the professional guidance of our Executive Director over the years. To my fellow Board members past and present, your on-going passion for our sector and strategic oversight for the organization has been truly commendable. And to our colleagues across the broader manufacturing sectors, you are the reason – YLF has been your voice and I am so proud of what we have all achieved together.” – Elaine Tadic, Chair, Board of Directors
We are humbled by the vast support and extend our heartfelt thank you to every person and entity who have been part of our story:
To our dedicated current and former employees – we appreciate every detail that you put into the inner workings of enabling mutual success.
To industry SMEs – we are so proud of your achievements and advancements and will continue to watch your continued growth through industry 4.0.
To the Government of Canada, FedDev Ontario, FedNor and the Province of Ontario – your investment to build a knowledge-based economy and trust in us to deliver on skills development, upskilling and re-skilling programs has had a profound impact on us and most importantly, every recipient who has participated over the years.
To our corporate sponsors and donors – your on-going enthusiasm and allegiance to our mission and vision have been appreciated in support of the skilled trades and manufacturing in Ontario.
To participating academic institutions – we are forever grateful to have such partners to help reach, educate and advance the next generation of people in trades, technology and STEM careers.
To our valued suppliers – without you, we would not have been able to deliver on our mission and thank you for walking on this journey with us.
“It was many years ago that the Yves Landry Foundation was founded in honour of my late father. Much of the credit to the Foundation’s positive impact on the broader manufacturing sectors can be attributed to the strategic leadership of the Foundation. The Executive Director, alongside the Board of Directors, has bridged industry, education and government partnerships, capitalizing on opportunities to advance the industry. The Foundation was able to serve its community by having the ability to understand changing industry needs, navigate economic conditions and foster strong relationships with flexibility and business acumen. This has enabled the organization to deliver on its mission and fulfil its vision. The Landry family extends its gratitude to Karyn, the staff, Board of Directors both past and present, and the many funders, fellow advocates and champions along the way.” – Phil Landry, Global Vice President Sales & Marketing, Magna International & YLF Board Director
Over the next few months, we will be finalizing all details of our exit strategy with our last day of operation planned for February 28, 2025. If there are any questions before that date, please reach out to Karyn Brearley, Executive Director at karyn.brearley@ylf-fyl.ca.
We thank everyone for sharing in this incredible journey. Forge forward!
FAQ
