Canadian and Design Construction writer
Canada’s construction industry will need more than 299,200 skilled trades workers by 2032, creating opportunities for people considering careers in sheet metal, roofing and other construction fields.
SMART Canada is highlighting career opportunities in sheet metal and roofing during National Skilled Trades and Technology Week, which runs Nov. 1-7.
The campaign comes as major infrastructure and energy projects drive demand for skilled workers and an estimated 20 per cent of Canada’s construction workforce prepares to retire over the next decade.
According to BuildForce Canada, the national construction unemployment rate fell to 3.8 per cent in September, its lowest level in two years.
“A lot has changed in our world over the years: technology, artificial intelligence, but one thing that won’t ever change is this simple fact: we need skilled trades workers to build Canada,” said SMART General President Michael Coleman. “SMART members are doing that from coast to coast to coast, whether building new hospitals, ensuring air quality in schools, or making sure apartment and office buildings run as efficiently as possible.
“We’re excited to shine a light on the many career paths available to workers in our industry during National Skilled Trades and Technology Week and beyond.”
SMART members work on projects across the country, including hospitals, schools and residential and commercial buildings. Their work includes installing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, architectural sheet metal and roofing systems.
The union represents 17,000 members across Canada through 21 local unions.
SMART Canada is promoting apprenticeships as a pathway into the construction industry that allows workers to earn wages while developing their skills, without taking on the student debt associated with many post-secondary programs.
Most new apprentices entering SMART’s trades are between 20 and 24 years old, according to the union.
Training opportunities also include the Green Future Partnership Project, which provides access to resources and green skills training, along with a nationally recognized green certification.
The program is intended to help workers develop skills relevant to an evolving construction sector, including projects focused on energy efficiency and sustainability.
Federal initiatives are also supporting recruitment and training, SMART Canada said. These include an announced $8-billion investment in skilled trades and workforce development, incentives for employers hiring first-year apprentices and grants of up to $400 per week for apprentices attending in-class training.
SMART Canada Director of Canadian Affairs Jack Wall said apprentices can gain hands-on experience on major construction projects and progress into supervisory positions.
“We have apprentices entering our industry today who are gaining hands-on experience on major projects and advancing into leadership roles as forepersons, building long-term careers with growth opportunities every step of the way,” Wall said.
The union says its members work across several sectors, including HVAC, architectural sheet metal, roofing, industrial construction and major infrastructure.
National Skilled Trades and Technology Week is intended to raise awareness of skilled trades careers and encourage Canadians to consider apprenticeship training as employers prepare for future workforce needs.
