Polygon Created with Sketch. Home | Research

Blue occupation pathways: Career transitions to the sustainable blue economy

In this research, we analyze the occupational transitions from 92 high-risk, low-mobility (HRLM) jobs to 15 rapid-growth jobs in the sustainable blue economy (SBE). How many years of training open up the most opportunities for HRLM workers to transition into the SBE? Which regions of Canada have higher transition potential, or higher transition costs? What training programs need to be developed to fill skill and labour gaps? Read the impact paper to get our full analysis.

Key insights

Rapidly growing occupations in the sustainable blue economy (SBE) are often specialized in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Due to the nature of these occupations, most transitions from high-risk, low-mobility (HRLM) jobs to those in the SBE will likely require one to three years of training.

The cost of a career transition to the SBE varies widely across Canada. It is high in British Columbia due to the opportunity cost of training and is much lower in the Atlantic provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The transition is especially less costly in Quebec because of the very low direct cost of training.

Related content

Research

Green occupations pathways: from vulnerable jobs to rapid-growth careers

The nature of work in Canada is changing. So is our climate. Can we alleviate both needs? Designing and implementing viable responses to automation requires a thorough understanding of the opportunities available to HRLM workers. Helping to transition these workers into high growth sectors of the economy is ideal (e.g., technology, cannabis, services). But policy responses that integrate with other public priorities will be the most effective and efficient.
Research

Hiring green: An analysis of the demand for green skills in Canada

This data briefing analyzes the demand for green skills in Canada. It assesses how often employers look for 35 different green skills and competencies when hiring.
Serious busy young black factory engineer in hardhat and safety goggles examining milling lathe and repairing it while working at production plant
Research

Skills development for innovation and growth: Insights from global initiatives

This report and accompanying case studies share insights from three skills for innovation training initiatives which can inform the design and operation of models in Canada.
View all Research