New surveys show that Canadian perception of the skilled trades is improving, with 52% of respondents reporting they think of the trades more highly, 42% saying they would choose a skilled trade if given the chance to start over, and almost 80% saying they would encourage others to pursue a career in them.
In many areas, skilled trades were once considered a second-choice career option—something you did only if you couldn’t get into university. This misconception undermined the immense skill and intelligence required to master the trades and devalued the hands-on learning style of many who gravitated to these careers.
A new Leger survey commissioned by Classic Fire + Life Safety revealed encouraging news for industry professionals. According to the survey, 52% of Canadians now think more highly of the trades than they did a few years ago—a welcome shift that is welcome and (some would say) long overdue. Over 1,600 Canadians aged 18 and over were surveyed online between September 27-29, 2024.
The survey showed that Canadians have a more favorable view of the trades. For example, 52% considered electrical work valuable, while 46% identified construction and plumbing as valuable.
Responses also indicated shifting views towards choosing skilled trades as a career for themselves and loved ones. The survey showed that 40% of Canadians have considered a career in skilled trades, 42% would choose a skilled trade if given the chance to start over, and 78% would encourage their children to explore the trades as a career.
These survey results indicate a promising shift in attitudes toward skilled trades and the dissolution of many stereotypes that may have discouraged people from pursuing careers in the field.
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