Pan-Canadian Forum A Future Built on Skills

  • Français
Future Skills Center logo
Français
Polygon Created with Sketch. Home | Research
Research

Emissions Reduction and Demand for Skilled Trades

Canada’s push to meet its climate targets will reshape both the construction sector and the broader demand for skilled trades. If policies outlined in the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) continue to take effect, demand for skilled trades in construction and supporting sectors (e.g., rail) will shift dramatically, driven by new sustainability standards, infrastructure priorities, and green technology advancements.

In this research, we examine the potential impact of policies outlined in the ERP on the skilled trades in the construction sector. We focus on answering the following questions: Which roles will see increased demand as Canada shifts focus to meet its climate targets? How will the current top in-demand skilled trades be affected by this shift? Which occupations will continue to be essential, and in which areas will workers need to develop new skills and expertise?

Download Report Button
Workers wearing safety uniforms discuss operational planning at wind turbine field

Key insights

Already‑high demand for heavy equipment operators will continue to grow, as will their relative share of the workforce because more workers skilled in operating heavy machinery will be needed to support large‑scale sustainable infrastructure projects.

Other trades set to grow include welders, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers, and transport truck drivers—key roles supporting renewable energy infrastructure and clean economy logistics.

Roles in residential construction that are currently in high demand, such as carpenters, home renovation managers, and plumbers, are expected to see a decline in both demand and relative share of the workforce.

More from FSC

Cashier at restaurant working on a computer.
Project

Scale Learning Lab

  • September 2025
  • Scale Hospitality Group
The Scale Learning Lab was developed to address the hospitality sector’s ongoing talent shortages through an innovative, industry-led training model. By combining digital learning and hands-on training, the Learning Lab provides hospitality professionals with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving sector.
2 Related Reports
Aerial view of private homes with snow covered roofs in rural suburbs town area in cold winter.
Research

Learning from One Another: A Comparative Analysis of Labour Market Needs and Corresponding Skills in Northern Ontario, Yukon, and Nunavut

  • September 2025
  • The Conference Board of Canada
Labour markets in Northern Ontario, Yukon, and Nunavut are changing, but the pace and scale of that change are not well understood. This multi-year project provided a roadmap for governments, communities, and education and training providers to improve regional workforce readiness for existing and emerging opportunities.
7 Related Reports
Research

Skills for Productivity, Prosperity and Well-Being in Canada: A Canadian PIAAC Research Agenda

  • September 2025
  • Shift Insights
Canada is in the midst of a productivity and growth challenge. Part of the issue is skills. New PIAAC data released at the end of 2024 provides Canada with an opportunity to improve understanding of relationships among skills, productivity, prosperity and well-being, and to use that knowledge to design better policies and programs.
1 Related Reports
View all Research