CCA working for you to help build your workforce
With approximately 13 per cent of the construction workforce expected to retire between 2022-2027 and 85,000 open yet unfilled jobs, the industry is facing its most severe labour shortage in decades.
As the industry’s national advocate, the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is tackling this issue through a combination of initiatives.
Immigration system needs an overhaul
We are advocating for changes to the Canadian immigration system to facilitate the entry of skilled immigrants and temporary foreign workers interested in working in the construction sector. Retirements and recruitment challenges will be a heavy blow to Canada’ future economic growth if steps aren’t taken now to build workforce capacity through supportive immigration policies.
New funding support: Canadian Apprenticeship Service
CCA has partnered with the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum, Aboriginal Apprenticeship Board, ApprenticeSearch.com, BuildForce Canada and SkillPlan on the federal government’s Canadian Apprenticeship Service. This program provides up to $20,000 per fiscal year in financial incentives to small and medium-sized employers (less than 500 paid employees) for the hiring and training of first-year apprentices in 39 Red Seal trades.
Employers eligible can access $5,000 per apprentice for a maximum of two Level 1 apprentices per employer, per year; or $10,000 per apprentice for a maximum of two Level 1 apprentices per year if the apprentice identifies as being from an equity-deserving group.
Other benefits to applying
In addition to the financial grant, employers will receive premium training resources at no additional cost. These industry-leading tools will compliment existing workforce development programs and support the overall objectives of apprentice progression and return on training investment. Employers will receive:
- Complimentary access, through SkillPlan, to their “Mentorship Matters” course plus Mentorship App for apprentices and journey persons, with direct access for apprentices to online learning tools to “Build Your Skills”.
- Additional complimentary training for SMEs from BuildForce Canada in the following areas:
- Working in a respectful workplace
- Understanding systemic racism
- Construction ethics
- Access to an exclusive matching program though ApprenticeSearch.com to address any barriers around apprentice recruitment. The service offers search capabilities by region and trade, making it easier for skilled trades employers to meet their future workforce needs.
Talent Fits Here
Launched in 2020, Talent Fits Here is a national public awareness campaign designed to inspire a new generation of workers to join the industry. Sharing the stories of real people from diverse backgrounds, it shows construction as an inclusive, exciting sector with opportunities for career growth.
Talent Fits Here also offers an employer spotlight – showcasing member firms who are going above and beyond in their efforts to attract and retain talent. People interested in working in construction can also find training by province, explore the industry and its careers, and connect with CCA partner associations in our Find Your Fit section.
Have a story to tell? Contact us here.
“Coming from an immigrant background, I’ve met a lot of people who, when I tell them what I do, are surprised this kind of career exists for them,” Abi admits. “My path is drafted the way I like. I’ve never had the worry of not having a job tomorrow. The industry has treated me so well.”
Abi Veeramaheswaran – Senior Estimator, PCL EllisDon