Apprenticeships in Canada Rebound: A Surge in Wood Industry Registrations Post-COVID

Wood Industry Magazine
December 12, 2023
Category: Finance & Economics

Statistics Canada recently reports that the Canadian wood manufacturing industry is witnessing a significant resurgence in apprenticeship registrations, surpassing pre-COVID-19 levels and marking the highest figures since 2014. This development is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by the industry during the pandemic. In 2022, a remarkable 81,141 Canadians registered in apprenticeship programs, an 11.6% increase from the previous year. This upsurge reflects a growing interest and need for skilled labor in the woodworking and related sectors. However, it’s crucial to note that certifications remained below pre-pandemic levels, indicating a potential gap in the completion of training programs. The heightened demand for skilled tradespeople, particularly in sectors like construction and fabricated metal product manufacturing, has been a driving force. …Geographically, the increase was widespread across most provinces and territories. …The rise in apprenticeship registrations is a vital step toward addressing labor shortages.

Read More