• 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

Group of diverse businesspeople having a meeting in a modern office at work.
State of Skills

Meeting the Demand for Talent

  • October 2026
Building a resilient national talent pool requires a shift from traditional credential-based hiring and training approaches towards skills-first practices and demand-driven training. These efforts must be paired with increased employer investments in training, and the active removal of systemic barriers for equity-deserving groups.
1 Related Reports
Two women wearing safety glasses standing in a metal workshop, working on metal drilling machine.
Research

Women in Trades: Progress, Barriers and Opportunities

  • October 2026
  • Diversity Institute
The research addressed three core questions: What is the current state of women’s participation in skilled trades in Canada? What systemic barriers prevent women from entering, completing and advancing in the trades? And what strategies, domestically and internationally, have shown the most promise in addressing these barriers?
2 Related Reports
Research

Workforce Training in Canadian SMEs: Barriers and Promising Models

  • September 2026
  • Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Diversity Institute
This project responds to the need for a clearer understanding of the factors shaping SME upskilling and the conditions under which training investments are more effective.
2 Related Reports
View all Research