Rapid technological advancements, including the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), are reshaping the local job market, sparking both uncertainty and opportunity for workers.
A new report from the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie examines these shifts and emphasizes the importance of skill development to ensure long-term employment stability.
Preparing for a Technological Future, the Workforce Planning Board’s latest Local Labour Market Plan, provides an in-depth look at employment trends across Brantford, Six Nations of the Grand River, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, and Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk counties. The report, supported by the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, highlights how businesses, workers, and communities must collaborate to prepare for a future shaped by technology.
Navigating the Changing Job Market
“Preparing for a Technological Future explores the opportunity for individuals, organizations, and businesses to cultivate resilience and collaborate in order to navigate the complexities of a technology-driven world,” said Danette Dalton, Executive Director of the Workforce Planning Board.
Dalton noted that businesses are increasingly turning to automation, advanced technology, and AI to enhance productivity and competitiveness. While this shift may change the nature of certain jobs, it does not necessarily lead to job losses. Instead, automation is creating demand for more skilled positions that require technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and creativity.
“While some low-skill, repetitive tasks may be automated, automation generally shifts the nature of work toward jobs that require more technical expertise,” Dalton explained. “The key is ensuring that workers have access to education and training to adapt to these changes.”
The report underscores the importance of skill development at all levels:
- Employers should support and encourage current employees to upgrade their skills.
- Job seekers need access to programs that help them align with technological advancements.
- Young people should be equipped with relevant skills before they enter the workforce.
Key Labour Market Trends
The report presents a comprehensive overview of employment trends in 2024, revealing several critical insights:
- Decline in overall employment: The region saw a considerable drop in employment compared to 2023, indicating that some businesses struggled to fill skilled positions.
- Growth in self-employment: Over 1,600 more people started their own businesses in 2024, reflecting a shift toward entrepreneurship.
- Youth unemployment challenges: Youth unemployment was about three times higher than the overall unemployment rate, with even greater struggles among Indigenous youth, newcomers, and individuals with disabilities.
- Increased demand for employment services: Government-funded job search and literacy programs experienced a surge in demand as more people sought career support.
- Workplace initiatives on the rise: Employers increasingly invested in programs promoting work-life balance and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Dalton emphasized that while the report provides valuable data, it is also intended to inspire proactive action within the community.
“Being proactive and thinking differently will help mitigate negative impacts on communities, businesses, and the workforce,” Dalton said. “We hope this report serves as a catalyst for discussions, partnerships, and strategies to ensure our local workforce remains strong and adaptable.”
Read the Full Report
The full Preparing for a Technological Future report is available on the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie’s website at: workforceplanningboard.org/local-labour-market-information/