Survey Shows Growing Canadian Interest in Skilled Trades, But Few Taking the Leap

Toronto – With nearly half of Canadians expressing high regard for skilled trades, new research suggests that these careers are gaining traction, but a considerable gap remains in participation. A recent Leger survey, commissioned by Classic Fire + Life Safety, reveals that while 40% of Canadians have considered a career in skilled trades, only 13% are actively working in the field. The “Measuring Up The Trades” study, conducted this fall, highlights an evolving outlook on these roles, with 52% of respondents indicating they think more positively about trades now than they did in past years.

The survey found that 80% of Canadians believe there are more job options in the trades than before, and 62% feel that careers in skilled trades are well-paying. The findings underscore a shift in long-held stereotypes, with 42% of respondents saying they would pursue a skilled trade if they could restart their careers, and 78% of those surveyed stating they would encourage young people to explore a future in trades.

“People are clearly interested in the field, but not enough have taken the plunge,” says Stanley Owah, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Classic Fire + Life Safety. “I can tell you from first-hand experience that the benefits are tremendous. It is worth jumping in!”

To address persistent workforce shortages, Classic Fire + Life Safety plans to regularly commission studies on public perceptions of trades. This year, the company partnered with Honour the Work, a nonprofit promoting skilled trades, to boost public awareness. According to Angela Coldwell, Founder of Honour the Work, “Canadians are realizing that these careers are not only in high demand, but also financially lucrative and directly correlated to our collective wellbeing through areas such as housing, clean energy, and public infrastructure.”

Educational institutions are increasingly introducing skilled trades at an earlier stage, which, according to Coldwell, challenges the idea that post-secondary education is limited to college or university. “Apprenticeship is a growing third form of post-secondary education leading to great STEAM careers,” she adds.

The survey also reveals that perceptions are catching up to reality. More than half of Canadians see skilled trades as well-paying, with 47% identifying job stability as a key factor and 45% recognizing the opportunity for entrepreneurship within these fields.

Since 2022, Classic Fire + Life Safety has been implementing a multi-year recruitment strategy to expand its workforce of fire alarm technicians and sprinkler fitters. The campaign, which aims to hire 400 technicians across 12 branches nationwide, has exceeded expectations, with the company now employing 422 skilled workers. The recruitment efforts have included standard job postings, trade fair engagements, and mergers with other firms—totaling seven since 2022.

Classic Fire + Life Safety has also ramped up partnerships with colleges and local career fairs to attract new talent. Recent engagements at institutions like Seneca College and Fanshawe College have helped launch internships and co-op programs, with the company planning to grow these initiatives annually.

“We train, we introduce new avenues and opportunities, we make room for professional and personal development—and the word gets out,” adds Owah. “Candidates are hearing about our business and seeing opportunities. We receive frequent calls from skilled professionals and recent graduates asking if they can come work for us.”

For those interested in the full survey findings, details are available at classicfls.com/measureup.