Mount Hope's KF Aerospace at Center of Federal Buy Canadian Investment

Industry Minister Joly (pictured with Councillor Mark Tadeson) Visits Our Community to Announce $186M in Canadian Procurement Reform

Hamilton, ON – November 10, 2025

Today, Ward 11 took center stage in Canada's economic future as The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry, visited KF Aerospace's Hamilton facility - right here in Mount Hope - to announce a major shift in federal procurement policy.

Minister Joly outlined nearly $186 million in new funding from Budget 2025 to fully implement the Buy Canadian Policy, which will ensure government procurement prioritizes Canadian companies and workers. And KF Aerospace, one of Ward 11's cornerstone employers, stands to benefit directly.

Ward 11 Leading Canada's Aerospace Future

KF Aerospace's Hamilton facility isn't just any aerospace company - it's Canada's largest commercial Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) provider, and it's located right here in Ward 11 at Hamilton International Airport. When the federal government invests in Canadian aerospace, they're investing in our community, our neighbours, and our local economy.

Prime Minister Mark Carney's new Buy Canadian Policy moves the federal government from "best efforts" to a clear obligation to buy Canadian. For Ward 11, this means federal contracts that might have gone to foreign competitors will now stay here - creating and protecting jobs for Hamilton families.

From Ward 11 to Hamilton to Canada

KF Aerospace has invested over $40 million at its Hamilton International Airport location in recent years, including a state-of-the-art widebody hangar. The company completes over 75 heavy maintenance visits annually and employs skilled Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and technicians - many of whom live right here in Ward 11 and across Hamilton.

KF Aerospace is part of SkyAlyne Canada Limited Partnership, which was awarded an $11.2 billion contract in May 2024 for military aircrew training. With the Buy Canadian Policy now in place, more of these federal dollars will flow through our ward, supporting Hamilton workers and strengthening our local economy.

Historic Defence Investment Benefits Our Community

This announcement is part of Budget 2025's $81.8 billion over five years to rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces, with $6.6 billion over five years specifically allocated to strengthen Canada's defence industry.

What does this mean for Ward 11 specifically?

• Local jobs protected and created: Federal contracts staying in Hamilton rather than going offshore

• Economic growth for our ward: More work for KF Aerospace means more employment opportunities for our residents

• Ripple effects across Hamilton: Local suppliers, services, and businesses benefit when Ward 11's aerospace sector thrives

• Skills and training opportunities: Partnerships between KF Aerospace and Mohawk College create pathways for local youth into high-paying careers

Ward 11's Role in Building for the Future

This Buy Canadian approach ensures that when Ottawa spends tax dollars on defence and infrastructure, those investments flow back to communities like ours instead of leaving the country. It's about keeping Canadian expertise, Canadian jobs, and Canadian innovation right here at home - starting in Ward 11.

Looking Ahead

I'm proud that Ward 11 is home to a company that plays such a vital role in Canada's aerospace sector. As your Councillor, I will continue working to ensure our community benefits from federal investments and that Ward 11 remains an attractive location for aerospace innovation and job creation.

The federal government has committed to releasing the full Defence Industrial Strategy by Christmas 2025. I'll be monitoring how these investments can further support our ward, our city, and the hardworking families who call Hamilton home.