Ottawa, ON., April 11, 2011 — A recent labour market study produced by Engineers Canada and Randstad Engineering shows the market conditions in engineering including an overview of disciplines and geographical areas that may benefit from new engineering and technology talent. The study tracked current national labour supply and demand and adds a projection from 2010 to 2018, providing engineering students, universities, employers and governments with insight into labour market forecasts.
"The results of the labour market study will be of benefit to many groups – including high school students that will graduate in the next two years, as it identifies which disciplines and areas of the country will need engineers in the next seven years," said Chantal Guay, ing., P.Eng., M.Env., Engineers Canada’s chief executive officer. "We are excited to be working with Randstad Engineering on this project as a valued and trusted advisor when it comes to workforce planning and strategy."
"The study is very useful for human resources management and career planning," said Mike Winterfield, President of Randstad Engineering. "Attracting and retaining the best workers will require employers to think about their place within the labour market and the unique selling points of their company. Knowing labour market needs and trends will help companies to better develop, understand and promote their selling points."
Study results also demonstrate the importance that diversity has in the workplace. All human differences and perspectives can be potential contributors to success in the engineering and technology sectors, and professions need to be welcoming to a diverse group of people, including women. Providing individuals with the opportunity to excel in an environment that is flexible, respectful, equitable and encouraging will not only benefit the workers but also their employers and society as a whole.
Also included in the study is information on qualifications and attribute requirements, along with career opportunities for those considering immigrating to Canada. For instance, while levels of immigration and Canadian graduation established in 2008-2009 are likely sufficient to balance markets across the coming decade, issues such as replacement demands related to retirements in many occupations will add to current challenges in recruiting experienced engineers.
The Engineering Labour Market Conditions 2009–2018 report is available online.
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