“In many circles, the trades are the talk of the town,” says Stanley Owah, Talent Acquisition Specialist at Classic Fire + Life Safety. “People are clearly interested in the field, but not enough have taken the plunge".
A recent Leger survey commissioned by Classic Fire + Life Safety, titled Measuring Up the Trades, uncovers fascinating insights into Canadians' views on skilled trades careers. The 2024 study shows that while 40% of Canadians have considered a career in the trades, only 13% currently work in the field. Additionally, 52% hold a more positive view of the trades than they did a few years ago, and 80% believe there are now more job opportunities available in these fields. The findings suggest that traditional stereotypes around trades careers are fading: 42% of respondents said they would choose a skilled trade if given the chance to start over, and 78% would encourage their children or others to explore these career paths.
As the sponsor of this study, Classic plans to conduct similar research on an ongoing basis to help tackle workforce shortages within the skilled trades and specifically the fire protection industry, to meet growing demand. By collaborating with industry leaders and educational programs, Classic aims to motivate more people to consider skilled trades careers. Earlier this year, the company joined forces with Honour the Work, a rapidly growing non-profit that promotes careers in the trades.
Classic has also expanded its partnerships with secondary schools and post-secondary institutions to help promote fire protection as a career option for young people looking to work in the trades. Over recent years, the company has actively participated in career fairs at schools like Seneca College and Fanshawe College, as well as events hosted by local municipalities. Through partnerships with these colleges, Classic offers recruitment, internships, and co-op programs and is dedicated to expanding these programs annually to support its growth and strengthen the skilled trades workforce.
Commissioned by Classic Fire + Life Safety, the Leger survey was conducted online between the September 27 to 29, 2024, with a sample size of 1,626 Canadians, 18 years or older. The quota was determined to ensure that the data encompasses sufficient samples from all major subgroups, aiming to be as representative of the target population as possible. A similar probabilistic survey would have a margin of error no greater than +2.5% (19 times out of 20).
Classic Fire + Life Safety wishes to thank those like-minded companies and organizations who helped with this survey.
