Work in Canada
Building Tomorrow: Tackling Skilled Trades Shortage in Atlantic Canada
In Atlantic Canada, the construction industry is facing a significant challenge: a shortage of skilled tradespeople. To tackle this issue head-on, the Construction Association of Prince Edward Island (CAPEI) is taking proactive steps to develop and implement a recruitment and retention strategy in collaboration with government entities and regional partners.
The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. With the demand for housing on the rise, there is an immediate need to bolster the construction workforce. Recognizing this need, Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced a substantial non-repayable contribution of $210,000 from ACOA’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.
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Collaborative Solutions
The Construction Association of Prince Edward Island (CAPEI) is spearheading efforts to address this shortage through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
According to Hutchings, the focus is clear: recruit skilled individuals who can contribute to meeting the housing needs of Atlantic Canadians. This investment aims to facilitate the recruitment process by providing support to CAPEI in developing an immigration strategy. This strategy will enable local construction companies to access immigration expertise services, engage with qualified international workers at recruitment events, and receive integration training and support.
Addressing Immediate Needs
Moreover, Prince Edward Island is stepping up its efforts to address the immediate workforce shortages within the construction sector. Through Skills PEI, the province is contributing $160,000 to support CAPEI in identifying key occupations and developing a comprehensive human resource plan in collaboration with local construction employers.
The collective efforts of CAPEI, government agencies, and regional partners signify a commitment to addressing the skilled trades shortage in Atlantic Canada. By investing in recruitment strategies and workforce development initiatives, stakeholders are laying the groundwork for a stronger and more resilient construction industry that can meet the evolving needs of the region.
As the demand for skilled tradespeople continues to grow, collaboration and strategic investments are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of Atlantic Canada’s construction industry. Through initiatives like CAPEI’s recruitment strategy and government support, the region is poised to overcome its workforce challenges and build a brighter future for all.
