Trade occupations in Canada are hands-on, skill-based professions that typically require vocational training or apprenticeships rather than a traditional university degree. These trades are critical for Canada's economy and include fields such as construction, manufacturing, electrical, plumbing, automotive services, and more. Key sectors for trade occupations include:
- Construction (e.g., carpenters, electricians, plumbers, welders, HVAC technicians)
- Transportation (e.g., automotive service technicians, truck and transport mechanics)
- Manufacturing and Industrial (e.g., tool and die makers, millwrights, industrial electricians)
- Services (e.g., cooks, bakers, hairstylists)
Canada has over 300 designated trades, with 54 nationally recognized Red Seal trades that signify a standard of excellence and allow tradespeople to work across provinces and territories. There is a strong demand for skilled trades in Canada, with over 222,000 Red Seal certified workers needed by 2028, especially in provinces like Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia. Examples of specific trade occupations include:
- Carpenters
- Welders
- Electricians (including industrial electricians)
- Plumbers and gas fitters
- Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
- Sheet metal workers
- Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
- HVAC technicians
- Cooks and hairstylists
These trades not only provide job security and competitive salaries but also facilitate immigration pathways through programs like the Federal Skilled Trades Program and Express Entry trade occupations stream.
