What are the skilled trades?

The skilled trades are a broadly defined group of professions that require a particular and often hands-on skill set. These skills are typically first learned as an apprentice before being honed as a journeyperson and eventually as a Red Seal. This process is unlike other professional fields, where education and training are often attained at a university. Some workers in the skilled trades still hold post-secondary education, but it is not generally required to enter the field. At each stage, from apprentice to journeyperson to Red Seal, the provincial or territorial licensing authority tests the worker’s skills and each successive level of skill commands higher pay.

There are over 300 designated skilled trades in Canada, with classification differing from province to province. The skilled trades are in industries such as construction (electricians and carpenters), transportation (mechanics and equipment operators), manufacturing (metal fabrication and CNC operation), and service (cooks and hairstylists).

Canada’s skilled trade labour shortage

With Canada’s growing population (and subsequent need for more housing and critical infrastructure), this could lead to a nationwide shortage in the field. Even though the skilled trades offer excellent pay, continuous skills development, and steady work year-round nearly everywhere in the country, the field often struggles to attract workers to replace those leaving the industry.

Several reasons may account for this. First, working in skilled trades is not easy. It can be physically demanding and requires a commitment to training and developing a skill set. Many trades work outside, which can be unpleasant for much of the year in Canada. There may also be a persistent stereotype that trades work isn’t as prestigious as other professions. As a result, many people graduate high school and may not consider working in the skilled trades. Given the growing labour shortage, some companies are changing their approach to broaden their appeal to these groups to garner a larger, more stable workforce.

Recruiting and hiring women

Companies can attract women to skilled trades by removing barriers and highlighting opportunities. Here are some practical strategies for organizations:

• Change industry perceptions: Consider shifting outdated views about skilled trades through marketing and outreach. Employer branding efforts on social media, word-of-mouth marketing, or community platforms can showcase diverse teams and emphasize inclusivity.
• Diversity initiatives: Implement diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs tailored to underrepresented groups. These might include scholarships, hiring bonuses, or training programs for women.
• Tailored messaging: Highlight the benefits of skilled trades careers—such as financial stability, growth opportunities, and meaningful work—in ways that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Community engagement: Partnering with schools, colleges, and community organizations can introduce women to skilled trades early and provide mentorship opportunities.
• Workplace adjustments: Ensure facilities, policies, and workplace cultures are inclusive and supportive, such as providing appropriate changing rooms and promoting work-life balance.

Indeed’s suite of employer tools can assist organizations in refining job postings and outreach efforts to attract a broader range of candidates.

Useful transferrable skills for the trades

Beyond trade-specific skills, success in the field often depends on the various transferrable skills that potential workers may have developed in other jobs. For example, attention to detail is necessary in nearly every trade since so much trade work depends on precise measurement and dexterity. Communication skills can also be integral since trades workers frequently communicate and coordinate their work with other trades workers, especially on large job sites with complicated project plans. Physical fitness and endurance are also valuable skills, given how demanding the work can be and the toll it can take on your body if you do not use proper physical form or routinely handle heavy or awkward objects. Planning and project management skills can benefit most trades, especially when considering candidates that have transitioned away from hands-on work and move up to a foreperson or general contractor role. Many workers in the skilled trades may start their own companies and, therefore, require entrepreneurial and business skills such as financial forecasting, marketing, and customer service.

Organizations can help improve Canada’s skilled trades labour shortage by hiring from all groups of people, including women. With many incentives offered by the federal government and most provincial governments to hire women for skilled trades, you might consider bolstering your workforce by tapping into the unrealized potential of Canadian women in the skilled trades.