Addressing the Skilled Trades Gap in Niagara Region

The Niagara Region is currently facing a significant challenge: a shortage of skilled tradespeople to meet the rising demand for labor. This situation has arisen primarily due to the emergence of two major construction projects—the South Niagara Hospital and the Port Colborne Battery Separator Plant—both of which require a substantial workforce.

Current Demand for Skilled Trades

Mark Cherney, business manager of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 303, reported that these projects are employing approximately 450 members from various trades (309A and 631A). This influx of work comes after a lean period that extended through 2013 and was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which restricted workforce growth and development.

To address the immediate demand, the IBEW is sourcing electricians and communication workers from its affiliates in neighboring areas. "We are working with our electrical contractor partners to ensure that the workforce requirements of each project are clearly communicated and met," Cherney stated.

Strategies for Long-Term Solutions

According to Kevan Peters, former president of the Niagara Construction Association, there are several key strategies that are being employed to build a sustainable workforce. These include:

• Hiring More Apprentices: Companies are increasingly focused on training new workers to ensure a steady inflow of skilled tradespeople.

• Collaborating with Local Colleges: Partnerships with institutions like Niagara College aim to create pathways for students through co-op placements and onsite learning opportunities.

• Implementing Mentorship Programs: Experienced tradespeople are guiding newcomers, ensuring that valuable knowledge and skills are passed down.

Cherney noted that IBEW is ramping up its apprenticeship programs to keep pace with growing demand. Their Job Readiness Training, called "Wiring the Future," prepares participants for electrical apprenticeships through six weeks of classroom training, followed by 12 weeks of paid field experience with signatory contractors.

The Job Readiness Program: Wiring the Future

Launched in 2023, the "Wiring the Future" program has been pivotal in supplying the contractor partners with highly skilled apprentices. This initiative has not only enhanced the quality of the workforce but also led to increased productivity for contractors. Cherney asserted, "Word of mouth has meant we have no shortage of applicants looking to join the trade."

Addressing Future Needs: Upskilling and Reskilling

Beyond immediate hiring practices, Cherney and Peters emphasize the importance of long-term strategies. They recommend:

• Upskilling and Reskilling: Investing in the current workforce to prepare them for evolving challenges and demands.

• International Recruitment: Looking beyond local borders to fill the skills gap.

• Enhancing Working Conditions: Improving the safety and organization of job sites, ensuring modern tools are available, and providing competitive wages to attract and retain talent.

The Role of Competitive Wages

Wages play a crucial role in attracting skilled tradespeople. Cherney highlighted an exciting new three-year contract that promises an attractive wage package, making it easier to draw new members from surrounding areas. Additionally, with important completion deadlines for ongoing industrial projects, many members are presented with increased overtime opportunities—a factor likely to draw more workers into the trade.

The Post-COVID Construction Boom

The post-COVID landscape has ushered in a renewed boom in construction projects within the Niagara Region. Both Cherney and Peters agree that the South Niagara Hospital’s long-awaited construction, along with new industrial ventures like the Asahi Kasei Battery Separator Facility and Jungbunzlauer’s Xanthan Gum Expansion, are driving demand for skilled trades.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future

As the Niagara Region navigates these challenges, it remains clear that strategic planning and collaboration are key to mitigating the skilled trades gap. Focused efforts on training, partnerships, and providing attractive working conditions will be essential to sustaining the workforce required for upcoming construction projects. By fostering a culture of growth and opportunity, the region can help ensure that it has the skilled tradespeople necessary to meet the demands of today and tomorrow.