Meet David Smith
David Smith, a dedicated resident of Scarborough Centre, has committed his career to enhancing the lives of his constituents through visionary leadership, collaboration, and service. With an outstanding record in public service, education, and skilled trades advocacy, David continues to drive meaningful change for his community and the province of Ontario.
As the Member of Provincial Parliament for Scarborough Centre, David Smith brings a result-driven approach to Queen’s Park. Currently serving as the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Energy and Mines, he plays a vital role in advancing Ontario’s mineral development strategies and energy priorities. David Smith is focused on building a reliable, clean, and affordable energy future for Ontario supporting investments in nuclear, hydroelectric, and renewable sources, while championing innovation and energy efficiency. His work supports long-term sustainability and energy security for families and businesses across the province.
In addition to energy, David is actively involved in critical minerals development, particularly those essential for electric vehicle batteries. His leadership in this space is helping position Ontario as a global hub in the emerging green economy, driving economic growth, job creation, and sustainable resource management.
David has been an elected Member for over 15 years, serving the people of Scarborough Centre. As the former Toronto District School Board Trustee for Ward 17, he championed initiatives to enhance student outcomes, collaborating across all levels of government to modernize infrastructure, improve safety, and promote innovation. Notable accomplishments include spearheading the construction of the state-of-the-art David and Mary Thomson Collegiate Institute, which accommodates 1,509 students and features seven seasonal programs for non-academic pathways. He also advocated for the redevelopment of Bendale BTI into a world-class facility, complete with a football field, and promoted renewable energy solutions like solar panel installations in schools.
In the skilled trades sector, David Smith has left an indelible mark. As a former Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development, he led efforts to strengthen Ontario’s workforce. One of his landmark achievements was the passing of the Working for Workers 6 Act – Skilled Trades Week (Bill 117). Starting this year, every first week of November will be recognized as Skilled Trades Week, featuring workshops, showcases, second chance individual seekers and training opportunities and for students, new immigrants, tradespeople, and others. It will highlight and celebrate the over 144 skilled trades that power our economy, ensuring that more Ontarians see trades as pathways to rewarding and sustainable professions. This initiative raises awareness of in-demand careers in construction, manufacturing, mining, carpentry, hairstyling, baking, and more.
Beyond his legislative accomplishments, David has served in various community and governance roles, including Director of the Toronto Lands Corporation, Chair of Employment Insurance Appeals of Referees, and Chair of Finance, Administration, and Accountability at the Toronto District School Board.
His passion for public service is deeply rooted in his background in financial services and a lifelong commitment to community development in Scarborough. His ability to understand and address the needs of his constituents has made him a trusted advocate and effective leader.
He has also served as Chair of the Standing Committee on Government Agencies, where he worked to improve oversight and accountability across provincial boards and commissions. Currently as the First Vice-Chair of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, David continues to champion transparency, accountability, and good governance across Ontario’s public institutions. The Standing Committee on Public Accounts is a key legislative body tasked with examining government expenditures, ensuring that public funds are spent efficiently. Ministries and government agencies remain in compliance with financial reporting standards. This committee is central to safeguarding taxpayers’ money and maintaining trust in the financial integrity of Ontario’s public sector.
With a proven track record in education, skilled trades, energy, and community leadership, David Smith remains focused on building a thriving, prosperous future for Scarborough Centre and beyond.