Canada Aims to Equip Workers for Green Transition with New Report

Canada is taking steps to support fossil fuel workers as the nation transitions towards a decarbonized economy. A recent report from the C.D. Howe Institute highlights the need for improved education and training to help these workers adapt to emerging roles in renewable energy sectors. The report, authored by policy analyst Lin Al-Akkad, emphasizes the importance of matching the existing skills of oil and gas workers with those required in green industries.

The study assesses the skill sets of individuals currently employed in the fossil fuel sector and identifies potential pathways to careers in renewable energy. For instance, a chemical engineer from a fossil fuel plant possesses transferable skills that can apply to roles such as a nuclear engineer. Nevertheless, Al-Akkad notes that while many workers have foundational skills, they will require further technical training, critical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities to make effective transitions.

Identifying Skills Gaps and Training Needs

Al-Akkad’s findings suggest that workers directly involved in energy production may encounter more significant barriers in transitioning to greener jobs than those in manufacturing and supply chain roles. For example, a warehouse manager might find it easier to shift into a renewable energy position compared to a technician from the oil industry. To address these challenges, the report urges the federal government to enhance its occupational skills database and develop targeted training programs.

Al-Akkad stated, “We have to have these labour skills for Canada to compete in the world. It will mean we can export our workers and even bring companies to invest in Canada, especially during this trade war with the United States.”

The report also highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to understanding the implications of decarbonization on the labor market. Hadrian Mertins-Kirkwood, a researcher at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, describes the report as a productive starting point for examining these changes. He emphasizes the necessity of engaging with workers and employers to grasp how these transitions will unfold in practical terms.

Creating a Green Career Map

To quantify the skills gap, Al-Akkad utilized databases such as the United States’ Occupational Information Network (O*NET) and Canada’s Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS). These databases provide detailed information about the skills and knowledge required for approximately 900 occupations. By analyzing 57 jobs across energy, manufacturing, and supply chain sectors, Al-Akkad was able to determine the varying levels of skills needed for roles in a low-carbon economy.

For instance, a chemical engineer transitioning to a nuclear plant role may need to enhance their skills in repair and writing, despite already excelling in programming tasks. The report identifies a significant skills gap for highly educated workers, particularly in engineering and geosciences, who require substantial upskilling to shift from fossil fuel-related roles to positions in renewable energy.

Al-Akkad pointed out that Canada’s OaSIS database lacks the robustness and frequent updates of its U.S. counterpart. She believes that improving these occupational databases could facilitate clearer career pathways for workers aiming to enter green industries.

While Mertins-Kirkwood expresses skepticism regarding the ability of government databases to capture the full complexity of workers’ skills, he acknowledges the importance of Al-Akkad’s recommendations. He stresses the necessity for training programs that can equip current workers with the skills required for a low-carbon future.

Luisa Da Silva, executive director of Iron & Earth, a non-profit organization aiding fossil fuel workers in accessing renewable energy training, praises the report’s recommendations. Iron & Earth has trained over 230 individuals in solar and wind technologies since 2021, focusing on providing hands-on experience to those already possessing relevant skills.

Da Silva states, “Those are very solid recommendations, and it reflects a lot of the work that we do.” She highlights that many community members already have the foundational knowledge needed to work in renewable energy but require practical experience to excel in these roles.

As Canada continues its push toward a sustainable future, the emphasis on equipping workers with necessary skills will be vital. Da Silva urges policymakers to ensure that Canadian workers are not left behind in the global transition to renewable energy: “Other countries are already moving ahead at light speed in comparison to Canada. We want to be keeping pace, and we want to ensure that as a country, we’re not going to be getting left behind. Our economy depends on it.”

The findings from this report underscore a critical need for collaboration between government, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders to facilitate a smooth transition for workers in the evolving landscape of the economy.