Canada’s labour market is projected to experience significant challenges, with 8.1 million job openings expected by 2033.
A recent Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) report highlights over 100 occupations at risk of shortages across various sectors.
Key industries including healthcare, construction, and technology are identified as critical areas with rising labour demands nationwide.
The report, based on data from ESDC’s Economic Policy Directorate and the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), emphasizes the impact of retirements, economic growth, and an aging population.
Key Drivers of Labour Shortages
The report predicts 68% of job openings will replace retiring workers, reflecting Canada’s rapidly aging population.
Additionally, 2.6 million jobs are expected to result from economic growth, intensifying the need for skilled labour.
While 8.2 million job seekers are projected to enter the workforce, a skills mismatch in key sectors remains a concern.
Industries requiring post-secondary education and specialized skills—particularly healthcare, construction, and natural sciences—will be most vulnerable.
Sectors Facing Labour Shortages
Healthcare: The Most Pressing Shortage
The healthcare sector tops the list, with 38 critical occupations identified, including:
Registered Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Medical Sonographers
Increasing healthcare needs and an aging population will further strain this sector over the next decade.
Construction and Trades: Skilled Labour in Demand
The construction sector faces shortages in 25 essential trades, crucial for infrastructure growth:
Electricians
Plumbers
Heavy-Duty Mechanics
Welders (NOC 72106)
Carpenters (NOC 72310)
Growing infrastructure projects across Canada will heighten these shortages.
Technology and Natural Sciences: Innovation Demands Talent
Canada’s technological advancement is driving demand for skilled workers in 12 key occupations, including:
Cybersecurity Specialists (NOC 21220)
Civil Engineers (NOC 21300)
These roles are essential for maintaining Canada’s global competitiveness.
Education and Social Services: Growing Societal Needs
11 occupations in education and social services are at risk, such as:
Secondary School Teachers (NOC 41220)
Early Childhood Educators (NOC 42202)
As Canada’s population grows, demand for educators and caregivers will continue to rise.
Addressing the Labour Shortage
The ESDC stresses the urgency of adopting new strategies, including:
Targeted immigration policies to fill critical gaps.
Upskilling and training programs to address sector-specific skill shortages.
Retention initiatives for aging workers to maintain workforce stability.
With millions of job openings and significant labour shortages projected, Canada’s economy faces a defining challenge.
