By Sean Delaney
A recent roundtable discussion hosted by Anthony Tersigni, President and CEO of New Era Tool & Die, brought together local MP Judy Sgro, Emery Village BIA Executive Director Sandra Farina, and Project Manager Al Ruggero to tackle the challenges facing manufacturers and exporters in Emery Village.
With rising tariffs, slowing orders, and a shifting global economy, the conversation centered around how Emery’s industrial businesses can gain better access to targeted government support, while reaffirming the Emery Village BIA’s role as an active partner in that effort.
“We’ve noticed a considerable drop in incoming orders,” said Tersigni, “and in many cases, it’s not even about pricing anymore—it’s about where the product is being made.” Despite sourcing raw materials from North American or European suppliers, many companies still face flat tariffs between 10 and 25 percent, with no relief programs like those available to the auto sector.
MP Judy Sgro acknowledged the challenges and shared a note of optimism tied to Canada’s new leadership.
“Prime Minister Carney is a results-driven leader. He’s not focused on partisanship—he’s focused on fixing what’s broken,” she said. “I believe he truly understands the urgency facing Canadian businesses and is looking to move quickly with smart, targeted solutions.”
Sgro also voiced her support for working directly with Emery businesses to gather insights.
“We can’t wait for numbers from Ottawa to trickle down—we need local feedback now. That’s how we build effective policy,” she said.
A major theme of the meeting was workforce development.
“There’s a skills gap, plain and simple,” said Tersigni. “We’re not seeing enough graduates who are ready for the job floor.” He noted that while schools like George Brown and Humber College are doing their part, a large number of international students are being trained—but often not staying in Canada’s manufacturing sector.
Through the Canadian Tooling and Machining Association, manufacturers like Tersigni’s company are working with the Ontario government on a $9 million initiative to reintroduce machining and skilled trades into high schools and colleges. “We’re investing in new equipment and in-school programs,” he said. “But we need 10 times that amount to really move the needle.”
Al Ruggero pointed to the bigger picture: “This isn’t just about short-term pain. If we want to build housing, develop infrastructure, and stay competitive internationally, we need the manpower—and we need it now.”
Connectivity among local businesses was also a key discussion point. Tersigni noted that many companies in the Emery industrial pocket don’t even know who their neighbours are. “There are machine shops blocks apart that could help each other—but we’re not linking up.”
Sandra Farina proposed a path forward: a BIA-led outreach campaign, including targeted surveys, in-depth interviews with industrial leaders, and a follow-up town hall with federal trade officials. “We need to provide Ottawa with not just statistics, but real business insight,” she said. “The BIA can help bridge that gap.”
As the conversation closed, Sgro reinforced her message: “We need to act now, not six months from now. If we get this right, Emery can help lead Canada’s manufacturing resurgence.”
Members of the Emery Village BIA who would like to participate in a future roundtable are encouraged to contact the BIA directly at 416-744-7242 or by email at: info@emeryvillagebia.ca
Future editions of the Emery Village Voice will continue to share updates and information on new government programs for businesses and employee assistance.