OTTAWA – A severe shortage of skilled tradespeople is hindering Canada’s ability to meet its housing goals, according to a CBC News broadcast Thursday. The federal government has pledged to build 4 million new homes by 2031, but faces a deficit of approximately 250,000 construction workers expected to retire in the coming years.

Addressing the Labour Gap

The CBC report highlighted several approaches being explored to address the shortfall. One solution focuses on integrating technology into the construction process. Stephen Bates, a professor of architecture at Laurentian University, argued that the construction industry needs to adopt technology to increase efficiency and lower costs. He pointed to the development of robots, such as the ‘Wardhog’ model, capable of automating tasks like carrying heavy materials. According to Austin Barrett, a student involved in the project, these robots could potentially perform the work of two to three human workers.

Another strategy involves expanding access to training programs for individuals facing barriers to employment. The ‘Construct’ program, run by the non-profit Blue Door, provides free eight-week training courses to individuals experiencing hardship, with participants receiving minimum wage during their training. Emma Wood, director of Blue Door, stated that the program has trained 800 participants in the last five years, with nearly three-quarters finding employment in the skilled trades. Trainees like Onika Campbell, who was facing eviction before joining the program, are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to solving the housing crisis.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to encourage more young people, particularly women, to consider careers in the trades. Katerina Mayeta of the Toronto Catholic District School Board noted a shift in the school system towards promoting the skilled trades as a viable career path. The broadcast featured students enrolled in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, expressing enthusiasm for pursuing careers in construction. Angela Norman, a trainer in the field, acknowledged the challenges women face in the industry but highlighted progress being made in creating more inclusive workplaces. She noted that women currently make up only 5% of the skilled trades workforce.

The report also mentioned a focus on prefabricated construction, building components in factories and assembling them on-site, particularly in regions with short construction seasons.