Workforce Development Centre: Skilled Trades
Skilled Trades Sector: The Current Scope
According to a June 2021 article in the Financial Post, employers in the skilled trades are struggling to find qualified workers. Since the pandemic began, there has been a decline in the number of skilled workers who are both qualified and willing to take a job in the trades. As a result, thousands of trades-related positions remain vacant in Canada.
As of March 2021, the vacancy rate in the construction field was 5.8 per cent, or approx. 58,300 unfilled jobs (Statistics Canada). With such a demand for talent, the only thing standing between you and a job is qualification!
The Career Foundation is invested in supporting employers to strengthen their workforce and we are already making a difference through our trades and pre-apprenticeship programs. Additionally, our Made in the Trades resource site educates job seekers about the benefits of pursuing careers in the skilled trades and how to get started.
Click through the links below to access relevant information about the Skilled Trades Sector.
Employer Partners & Sector Experts
The Career Foundation has partnered with dozens of employers in the Skilled Trades — many of which are hiring now! To learn more about current career opportunities, connect with one of our Sector Experts today or browse our job vacancies on the Digital Job Centre!
Shauna McKenzie-Onita
Employer Services Consultant, Skilled Trades SectorShauna possesses over 20 years experience in the staffing and recruitment industry. She is an effective networker who brings people and organizations together to accomplish common goals. She describes herself as a “big-picture” thinker with a creative perspective – able to find and create opportunities that aren’t always obvious. Shauna grew to love the Skilled Trades Sector over the past 10 years due to the strength of employer relationships that she developed and her fascination with the numerous careers available in the trades.
Kristoffer Rodas
Skilled Trades Employment Services and Placement SpecialistWith experience working with at-risk individuals and in corporate training, Kristoffer loves to build relationships and see individuals thrive and succeed. He is also passionate about the trades, having had the privilege of working within them, which shaped his understanding of the industry’s culture. He brings together his excitement for people and the trades by talking to job seekers about the many rewarding opportunities in this sector.
Skilled Trades Sector Initiatives
Future at Work Podcast & Webinar Series
The Career Foundation’s Future@Work Podcast and Webinar Series focuses on new and emerging trends occurring across high-growth industries, including the technology sector. We also highlight dynamic workforce development solutions that tackle talent needs and mismatches, and share career insights that truly develop human potential.
Ontario Home Builders’ Job-Ready Program
Want to enter Ontario’s booming construction industry? The Ontario Home Builders’ Job-Ready Program provides job seekers with entry-level skills, training, and experience that prepares them for work in the construction industry. In addition to hands-on industry training, participants will be provided with a paid job placement and ongoing support to ensure their long-term success in construction. There is no cost to participate.
Arborist Ground Worker Training Program (Skills
Development Fund)
Love trees? The Arborist Ground Worker Training Program provides job seekers with industry training that enhances productivity, safety, and efficiency while enhancing communication, problem-solving and critical thinking skills — all in a practical learning environment that mimics the workplace. There is no cost to participate.
Made in the Trades: Guide to Trades & Apprenticeship
The Career Foundation’s Made in the Trades: Guide to Trades & Apprenticeship provides job seekers and employers with valuable resources for the field. Learn how to get started in the trades, access grants & training incentives, register as an apprentice, hire an apprentice, and more!
General Carpenter Pre-Apprenticeship Program
The General Carpenter Pre-Apprenticeship Program, delivered in partnership with Mohawk College and the Carpenter’s Union Local 18, is for individuals between the ages of 18 and 29 who are interested in pursuing a career in carpentry/construction. Participants receive General Carpenter Level 1 Apprenticeship training, along with secondary trade exposure in Drywall, Acoustics and Lathing Application. There is no cost to participate.
The Newcomer Advantage Program
Upcoming Industry Events
Scroll through the stream below for upcoming sector events. To register for an event or to view more details, click the event image.
Industry Reports & Resources
The Career Foundation’s Workforce Development Centre provides labour market information, sector trends and initiatives, and workforce development planning opportunities to address labour market needs for our communities. See below for recent Skilled Trades Sector news and reports.
Value of the Construction Industry
Report by: Canadian Construction Association
Learn more about the impact the construction industry has on Canada. This article covers the importance of the construction industry for the economy and the number of job opportunities that it offers.
Click here to learn more about Canada’s construction industry.
2021 Contractor Survey
Report by: Ontario Construction Secretariat
The 2021 Contractor Survey by the Ontario Construction Secretariat announces their business expectations for the year and captures their views on issues in the industry. The survey results provide statistics for every region in the province to display differences in the industry as a whole.
Apprentice Demand: Ontario
Report by: Canadian Apprenticeship Forum
This report showcases the demand for apprentices in 2021 and beyond. Filled with statistics, you can compare the trades year by year.
Learn About Top Sectors in Ontario
Click through the sectors below to access sector-based information, including industry events, training initiatives, labour market news, and top industry employers.
This Employment Ontario service is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.