Toronto, Ontario — It’s no secret that the collision repair industry is in dire need of skilled trades labour, but thanks to a recent study from 3M, the Canadian public has confirmed it, as well as some other prejudices about the trades sector, in the latest 3M State of Science Index.
Researchers at 3M found that 96 percent of Canadians agree that the country’s workforce needs more skilled trades workers, but that 76 percent would never pursue a skilled trade for themselves.
This is in spite of the finding that 92 percent believe there to be a lot of opportunities in the skilled trades sector.
3M suggests that this marks a turning point for Canadian businesses to “champion skilled trades and do more to showcase fulfilling career pathways available to young Canadians.”
The company says they are committing to creating five million unique STEM and skilled trades learning experiences for underrepresented individuals.
“Getting Canada’s youth excited about skilled trades will be critical to ensuring a robust and healthy economy as we emerge from the impact of the global pandemic,” said Manufacturing and Supply Chain Leader at 3M Canada, Terry Bowman.
“It is imperative Canadian organizations provide equitable access to STEM education to passionate young Canadians interested in pursuing a skilled trade. With over 900 skilled workers at 3M Canada, we recognize the importance of skilled trades to Canada’s economy and are fully committed to supporting the next generation of skilled workers.”
CEO of Skills Ontario, Ian Howcroft, echoed Bowman’s sentiment.
“The shortage of skilled professionals in Canada is daunting—misconceptions and lack of awareness surrounding these careers makes it difficult to fill the gaps, but it is important now more than ever that we encourage and support Ontarians pursuing these fields,” said Howcroft.
3M’s 2022 State of Science Index survey was conducted amongst a 1,000-person sample of Canadians.
