TORONTO – CBC News on Thursday examined the growing shortage of skilled trades workers in Canada and potential solutions, ranging from inclusive training programs to the adoption of construction technology. The broadcast also featured a report on rising food prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

Addressing the Skilled Trades Gap

Canada is facing a significant shortage of skilled trades workers, with an estimated 250,000 expected to retire in the coming years. CBC News highlighted several initiatives aimed at attracting and training more Canadians for these roles.

The Construct program, a non-profit initiative run by Blue Door, offers free eight-week training courses to individuals facing hardship. According to Emma Wood, the director of Blue Door, the program has trained 800 participants in the last five years, with nearly 75% finding employment in the skilled trades. Participants, like Monika Campbell, are paid minimum wage during the training. “I had to work three jobs to maintain myself and be able to pay rent,” Campbell stated, emphasizing the financial barriers many face when entering the trades.

Another approach focuses on integrating technology into construction. Professor Stephen Bates of Laurentian University’s McEwen School of Architecture believes the industry needs to adopt new technologies to increase efficiency and lower construction costs. His team is developing robots, such as “Warthog,” designed to assist with physically demanding tasks. Computer science student Austin Barrett, working on the project, suggested a single robot could perform the work of two to three people, operating 24/7.

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program is also working to attract young people to the trades. Victor Chen, a 17-year-old participant, expressed his commitment to a future career in the skilled trades, stating, “100%, no doubt. I can see myself 10 years down the line working in the trades every single day.”

Katerina Maietta of the Toronto Catholic District School Board noted a shift in attitudes, with more students, particularly young women, exploring co-op programs in the trades. Angela Norman, a trainer in the field, acknowledged the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry, but highlighted positive changes. “My teacher, like she’s a girl. I was surprised when I first got here,” said one student.

Food Prices Rise Amidst Middle East Conflict

The CBC News broadcast also reported on rising food prices driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Nisha Patel, reporting from Toronto, explained that fuel surcharges from shippers and suppliers are being passed on to consumers. Munther Zaid, owner of Winnipeg’s Food Fair grocery store, noted a recent price increase on onions, from 75 cents to $1 for a two-pound bag. The price of diesel has jumped 40% since the conflict began, impacting the entire food supply chain. Experts suggest buying local, seasonal produce as a way to mitigate the rising costs.