January 14, 2021
By Peter Caulfield, Business in Vancouver
The Canadian construction industry is looking for workers.
“Construction is facing a talent shortage all across Canada,” said Mary Van Buren, president of Canadian Construction Association (CCA). “There is a looming shortage because many experienced workers are retiring and because of a decline in the number of newcomers to the country.”
To fill the gap, Van Buren said, the industry must focus its recruitment efforts on traditionally underrepresented groups, such as women, Indigenous Canadians and new Canadians.
“Those construction companies that can attract a diverse workforce will succeed,” said Van Buren.
“More diversity leads to better decisions, which leads to more success.”
The CCA said there are solid business reasons that back diversity and inclusion in the construction workplace.
Accelerate innovation with fresh ideas
Diverse perspectives reduce the risk of groupthink, as well as the temptation to do things the way they’ve always been done.
Cultural differences bring in new ways of thinking, and women introduce fresh perspectives and new ideas about the best way to get the job done.