Niagara Industrial Association showed St. Catharines the region's industrial sector, including need for trades
An update to St. Catharines city council of the industrial makeup of the Niagara region.
The Niagara Industrial Association showed the nominal GDP for 2023 was $2.24-billion, and slated to grow, as well as exports from the region, at $2.72-billion for that year.
Executive Director Jordan Sherlock added to keep with future demand, skilled trades people are needed, such as plumbers, so he goes to trade shows, and talks to students often. "I was at one at E.L. Crossley, maybe 2 months ago, and it's the most interest I've had from students approaching us, and asking questions about the trades... what kind of companies are here, where can I go and work?"
He says a shift is taking place in that more people are considering a trade.
It's something Mayor Mat Siscoe encouraged students to consider. "If you want an AI proof job, one's that's not going to be replaced by an algorithm, or a computer system, go become an electrician. AI is not going to rewire my house. Go become a plumber, AI is not going to fix the plumbing issues in my house."
Councillor Jackie Lindal, a high school teacher, promoted the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship program.