The Winnipeg Construction Association is working to address the issue of a shortage of tradespeople in the industry, as many seasoned workers are retiring with few new apprentices to take their place. To combat this, they organized the Manitoba Construction Career Expo, which attracted over 1,300 high school students eager to learn about various trades. Many of the students already had an interest in pursuing a hands-on career in the trades, citing reasons such as enjoying working with their hands, avoiding a desk job, and the potential for high earnings in red seal trades.
Drayke Gray, a third-year automotive apprentice, sees the trades as an opportunity for continuous learning and staying updated on new technology. He aspires to undergo master tech training and obtain full EV training to work on the latest electric vehicles. While events like the trade expo help generate interest in the trades among young people, longstanding industry professionals like Maks Doerksen, a structural welder and ironworker, are concerned about the dwindling number of apprentices entering and staying in the trades. Despite the continuous demand for workers, the rate of older workers retiring is surpassing the rate at which new apprentices are entering the field.
The shortage of apprentices is a significant issue in the trades industry, impacting the future workforce and the ability to meet the demands for construction projects. The lack of interest from young people in pursuing trades as a career is a growing concern among industry professionals. The need for skilled tradespeople is crucial for the maintenance and development of essential infrastructures such as bridges, roadways, and electrical systems. The industry is facing challenges in attracting and retaining new talent to fill the shoes of retiring workers and meet the ongoing demands for skilled tradespeople.
Events like the Manitoba Construction Career Expo play a vital role in introducing high school students to the diverse trades available and showcasing the opportunities for rewarding careers in the industry. The hands-on experience and information provided at such events help students make informed decisions about their future career paths. Encouraging young people to consider trades as a viable and fulfilling career option is essential for addressing the shortage of skilled workers in the industry. Industry professionals are advocating for increased awareness and support for trades education to ensure a steady supply of trained workers for the future.
The emphasis on promoting trades education and creating awareness about the diverse opportunities available in the industry is essential for bridging the gap between retiring workers and new apprentices. Encouraging young people to pursue trades as a viable career option not only benefits the individual but also contributes to the growth and sustainability of the trades industry. By providing opportunities for hands-on learning and showcasing the potential for career advancement and growth in the trades, the industry can attract a new generation of skilled workers who are essential for meeting the demands of the construction sector. Overall, addressing the shortage of tradespeople requires a concerted effort from industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and policymakers to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers in the future.
