Overview of the Construction Industry
Detailed Construction Industry Outlook | B.C. | 2019-2029
Source: B.C.’S Labour Market Outlook: 2019 Edition
Charts: WorkBC
Source: Buildforce Canada
The industry includes both residential (housing) and non-residential construction.
Sectors with strong demand for construction workers include:
- Transportation systems
- Renewable electricity generation and transmission projects
- LNG terminals
- Pipelines
Over the period 2021-2030, industry growth increases the labour force by more than 18,600 workers – up 10% compared to 2020. Industry must also address the need to replace an aging workforce, with an estimated 41,000 workers, or 22% of the current labour force, expected to retire. Combining retirement and expansion demands, the construction industry will need to recruit close to 59,650 workers over the coming decade. This demand may be partially met by up to 35,150 new entrants under the age of 30 available locally, but a significant portion of remaining demand will need to be drawn from other industries or other provinces
Source: Buildforce Canada
The industry has responded by developing a number of programs to attract newcomers. These include:
- initiatives to attract newcomers to remote locations of the province
- corporate efforts to encourage diversity in the workplace
- strategies for streamlining foreign-credential recognition
SkilledTradesBC
One initiative is SkilledTradesBC Certification Information for Newcomers and International Tradespersons, which helps skilled immigrants who are unemployed, or employed and low-skilled, overcome barriers to entering the trades, including jobs in aviation and aerospace.
More information:
British Columbia Construction Association’s Integrating Newcomers (BCCA-IN)
The BC Construction Association has created a programs for new Canadians:
- British Columbia Construction Association’s Integrating Newcomers (BCCA-IN) is a program that helps newcomers enter the construction workforce in British Columbia
Temporary Foreign Worker Program
The Federal Government is also recognizing the importance of new immigrants in the construction sector. Opportunities offered through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program help fill short-term job gaps within Canada’s construction industry.
More information: