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Research Strategy

The Future Skills Centre supports research to build a robust evidence base that decision-makers can use to prepare workers for the challenges of the future.

Our research partnerships address a holistic set of questions that touch upon issues emerging among individual workers, communities, industries, and providers of education and training.  We bring together experts bridging supply and demand-side perspectives, reflecting the diverse interests and supporting approaches that are both people-centric and employer-informed. 

We are working with a diverse team of more than 100 world class diverse multidisciplinary researchers from academic institutions, think tanks, and community organizations bringing together a pool of expertise in economics, information technology, predictive analytics, education, management, sociology, gender and diversity studies, and multiple methods and new technologies.

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Our research informs discussion on the following questions:

  • What do key stakeholders understand about the skills and competencies that will best prepare Canadians to work in a rapidly changing economy?
  • What practices are needed to serve the skills development needs of diverse and vulnerable populations?
  • What do employers need to be able to meet their current and future skilled workforce needs?
  • What are new and innovative approaches to preparing for the future skills needs and demands that work?
  • What broader workplace issues are impacting the ability of Canadian workers to navigate their careers and future prospects?
young professionals in a group meeting discussing work.

Key Initiatives

Quality of work 
We are supporting a multidisciplinary portfolio of research projects exploring how working conditions impact the ability of Canadian workers to develop and refine their skills.  

Research on sustainable futures and skills
We are supporting a variety of research projects exploring national, regional, and sectoral-level implications of Canada’s transition to a more sustainable, less carbon-intensive economy.

Research on the needs of equity seeking groups in the workforce
We work with research partners to explore the challenges facing women, racialized Canadians, newcomers, youth and Indigenous peoples in securing opportunities to participate in the workforce.

Benchmarking Canada’s performance against international data
We work with international researchers to benchmark key indicators of skills development and skills ecosystem performance against similar economies.

Our Latest Research

Two coworkers smiling and collaborating at a computer in an office.
Research

Supporting Inclusive Work-Integrated Learning as an Employer

  • April 2026
  • Signal49 Research (formerly The Conference Board of Canada)
Work-integrated learning and placements are critical bridges to employment. Employers who offer inclusive placements can access a wider talent pool, improve retention and performance, and foster innovation through diverse perspectives.
1 Related Reports
Two colleagues at a desk reviewing content on a computer, with one pointing at the screen while the other types.
Research

Preparing for the Workforce as a Neurodivergent Student

  • April 2026
  • Signal49 Research (formerly The Conference Board of Canada)
As a neurodivergent student, you bring unique strengths, perspectives, and skills to your studies and future career.
1 Related Reports
Cargo ships carrying stacked containers across calm water with a bridge and mountains in the background.
Research

Gearing Up for Global Exports: Identifying Skills and Promising Practices to Support Indigenous Exportersexternal link icon

  • March 2026
  • Signal49 Research (formerly The Conference Board of Canada)
Indigenous small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) in Canada continue to be under‑represented in global trade due to long‑standing barriers that limit their access to global markets, financing, and export‑related support.