Ontario Construction News staff writer
Georgian College is warning that workforce shortages could challenge Ontario’s efforts to meet growing demand for housing, infrastructure and energy projects as communities across central and southwestern Ontario expand.
The college’s From Insight to Impact report examines population growth, labour-market forecasts and emerging technologies, highlighting the need to prepare workers for construction and other industries facing increasing demand.
The report was launched Oct. 13 at Georgian’s Barrie Campus during An Evening with the President, featuring a panel discussion with college president and CEO Kevin Weaver and business and industry leaders.
Panel members included Daniel Tisch, president and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce; Eric Chassard, president and CEO of Bruce Power; Sylvia Biffis, director of sales at Nottawasaga Resort & Conference Centre; and Dara Marcoccia, vice-president of people experience and chief human resources officer at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre.
The report estimates that nearly 947,000 college-educated workers will be needed across Ontario over the next decade.
“Georgian is proud to play a vital role in preparing the workforce Ontario and our economy need,” Weaver said. “Through work-integrated learning, applied research and exceptional partnerships, we help students unlock their potential and give employers access to highly adaptable talent.”
Skilled trades demand expected to grow
The report identifies significant skilled trades shortages as a concern for Ontario’s housing, infrastructure and energy development plans. One in six job openings is projected to be in skilled trades-related occupations by 2034.
Population growth is adding to the pressure. Simcoe County’s population increased 26.1 per cent over the past decade, with another 14 per cent increase projected by 2031. The county’s working-age population is expected to grow by approximately 47,000 people, while its retirement-aged population is projected to increase by more than 60,000.
Between 2025 and 2031, occupations requiring a college education in Georgian’s region are projected to increase by nearly 13,000, exceeding projected growth in demand for university-educated workers by 4,290.
Among the report’s findings:
- Health-care occupations, including nursing, nurse aides and patient service associates, are among the fastest-growing professions in the region.
- Significant skilled trades shortages are anticipated as Ontario works to meet housing, infrastructure and energy development goals. One in six job openings is projected to be in skilled trades-related occupations by 2034.
- Regional job postings seeking artificial intelligence skills increased by 521 per cent between March 2025 and April 2026. Communication, leadership, problem-solving and adaptability remain among the most sought-after competencies.
The report calls for coordinated action among employers, educational institutions and governments to prepare workers for changing labour-market demands.
Tisch said businesses, educators and governments must work together to understand emerging workforce needs and prepare people for new opportunities.
“The future of work demands more than technical expertise; it requires adaptability, critical thinking, collaboration and a commitment to lifelong learning,” Tisch said.
“By working together to understand emerging workforce needs and prepare people for the opportunities ahead, we can build a stronger talent pipeline, support employers and create an economy where more Ontarians thrive.”