The construction industry is facing significant challenges, including inflation, higher interest rates, supply chain disruptions, and increased material costs. However, the most pressing issue is the shortage of skilled tradespeople and experienced construction workers required to construct houses, condominiums, and apartment buildings.
Without an adequate workforce, we cannot meet the demand for housing. Our country is experiencing rapid growth, with immigration adding further pressure to the already strained housing supply. This situation is putting the construction industry to the test as it grapples with a growing labor shortage.
In the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), for instance, nearly 43,000 construction workers are expected to retire by 2030, which accounts for nearly 25% of the current labour force. To meet the demand for much-needed housing and essential infrastructure projects, thousands of new workers must be recruited and trained.
The residential construction sector is particularly reliant on workers with specialized skills. These include individuals who are adept at tasks like installing tiles, working on drywall, handling concrete and drainage systems, performing high-rise concrete work and basement construction, and excelling in carpentry.
The skilled trades hold the promise of a strong career path due to the substantial job opportunities anticipated in the future. By 2026, around one out of every five job openings in Ontario is expected to be in the skilled trades. This means it’s critical to start encouraging young people to consider careers in these hands-on professions.
To ensure that our housing and infrastructure projects keep going and to meet the demand for housing, we need to attract more people to the industry. In schools, we should offer more specialized trade-focused courses instead of general programs so that students can graduate with skills that employers are looking for.
Currently, there are many individuals with university degrees and college diplomas who are working in restaurants and coffee shops just to pay off their school debts. In contrast, pursuing a trade allows young people to earn money while they learn, develop skills that will benefit them throughout their lives, and find opportunities for career growth.
We must start talking to students when they’re young to let them know that the skilled trades are an excellent career path to consider.
If you’re interested in getting your start in the trades today, visit our job bank here.
Credit goes to canadianconstructionbusiness.com for the information.