Canada is on the brink of a skilled trades crisis. With over 245,000 construction workers expected to retire by 2032, the country’s aging trades workforce poses a significant challenge to meeting future infrastructure and housing demands. At a time when industries require innovative solutions and consistent labor, the declining number of younger tradespeople entering the workforce threatens to widen the gap between supply and demand.  

Recent data from Statistics Canada highlights a startling reality: between 2016 and 2021, the number of tradespeople in Canada declined by nearly 6%, with youth (aged 15-24) experiencing the steepest drop at over 12%. This decline is not just a statistical trend—it’s a red flag signaling future difficulties in maintaining and expanding the essential infrastructure Canadians rely on. In this blog, we explore why the aging workforce is a critical issue and what it means for the future of skilled trades in Canada.  

Declining Youth Participation: A Workforce at Risk  

One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the declining participation of youth in skilled trades. Between 2016 and 2021, the number of tradespeople aged 15-24 dropped by over 31,000—a 12% decrease. This demographic, traditionally viewed as the pipeline for replacing retiring workers, is not entering the trades at the rate necessary to sustain the industry. The consequence of this is that the numbers of tradespeople aged 65 and over who are still working increased by 111.8% over this same period.

The reasons for this decline are multifaceted. Societal perceptions often prioritize university degrees over trade certifications, leading many young Canadians to overlook the trades as a viable career path. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted training programs and apprenticeships, further reducing the number of new entrants. If this trend continues, the gap left by retiring workers will only grow wider, leaving critical sectors like construction, mechanics, and precision production severely understaffed.  

Why an Aging Workforce is a Problem for Infrastructure  

As older tradespeople retire, they take with them decades of experience and expertise that cannot be easily replaced. This loss is particularly concerning in industries like construction and maintenance, where the demand for skilled labor is not only steady but increasing. With Ontario alone facing a housing crisis that requires rapid construction of affordable homes, the absence of a robust workforce threatens to stall progress on key infrastructure projects.  

A 2023 BuildForce Canada report estimates that over 61,000 construction positions will remain unfilled by 2032, exacerbating delays and driving up costs for essential projects. An aging workforce also places additional strain on existing workers, who must pick up the slack while younger, less experienced tradespeople learn on the job. This dynamic creates inefficiencies and increases the risk of burnout, further destabilizing the labor pool.  

The Role of Technology and Training in Bridging the Gap  

One way to mitigate the effects of an aging workforce is through the adoption of modern technologies and enhanced training programs. Tools such as automation, project management software, and advanced diagnostic equipment can help tradespeople work more efficiently, allowing fewer workers to accomplish more. However, these tools require training, and many educational institutions have been slow to integrate modern technologies into their curricula.  

Institutions like Trade Smart College are working to address this gap by focusing on practical, technology-driven training that prepares students for the demands of today’s workforce. By equipping students with both traditional skills and the ability to use modern tools effectively, programs like these ensure that new entrants are ready to contribute from day one. This approach also helps to attract younger workers who are more comfortable using technology, making the trades a more appealing career option for the next generation.  

Immigration as a Partial Solution  

Another strategy to address labor shortages in the trades is increasing immigration. Between 2016 and 2021, the number of non-permanent residents in the trades more than doubled, providing much-needed relief in sectors like welding and automotive repair. These workers often offset declines among Canadian-born tradespeople and help fill critical gaps in the labor force.  

However, relying on immigration alone is not a sustainable long-term solution. Many immigrants face barriers to certification and integration into the workforce, limiting their ability to contribute fully. A balanced approach is needed—one that includes both targeted immigration policies and robust domestic training programs to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers. This dual focus will help Canada meet its future infrastructure and housing needs while maintaining a high standard of quality in the trades.  

Conclusion: A Call to Action  

The aging workforce in Canada’s skilled trades is not just a challenge—it’s an opportunity to rethink how we train, recruit, and support tradespeople. By addressing the decline in youth participation, integrating modern technologies, and leveraging immigration wisely, Canada can build a workforce that is prepared to meet the demands of the future. Institutions like Trade Smart College are already leading the way, but a coordinated effort across government, industry, and education is essential to ensure success.  

The stakes are high. Without a proactive approach, Canada risks falling short on critical infrastructure projects, from housing to transportation. The time to act is now to reverse the trend of an aging skilled trades workforce.  

Reference:

Sophia Su, Hyeongsuk Jin and Justin Brown. “Changes in the population of tradespeople between 2016 and 2021.” Statistics Canada. Release date: September 26, 2024