The Manitoba government recently announced a change to the apprenticeship ratio in the province, reducing it from 2:1 to 1:1. This change has raised concerns among stakeholders, with some wondering how the existing workforce shortage will be filled, especially with many construction workers set to retire soon. Ron Hambley, president of the Winnipeg Construction Association, stated that the previous 2:1 ratio allowed the industry to grow at a reasonable pace, and many were satisfied with it. However, with the new ratio, there may be layoffs and difficulty in filling the gaps in the workforce.
The Winnipeg Construction Association reports that 65% of its members will be forced to let apprentices go due to the ratio change. Companies like PowerTec Electric Inc. are worried about the impact on their workforce. President Daniel Hartley expressed concerns about potential layoffs of apprentices or the inability to hire the apprentices needed to fill gaps in the workforce. The company currently employs about 30 apprentices, slightly exceeding the 1:1 ratio. The ratio change may hinder their ability to hire more apprentices to meet their work needs.
Minister Jamie Moses of economic development, investment, trade, and natural resources reassured that the government will continue to grow skilled trades and invest in training opportunities. While he did not provide specific details about the number of training seats that will be available, he emphasized the importance of encouraging people to enter the skilled trades by ensuring quality and safety. However, Hartley feels that the reduction in ratios signifies a step back, especially after taking advantage of previous programs and incentives to hire apprentices. The change may limit growth opportunities in the economy and impact homeowners’ costs.
Hartley and Hambley both expressed concerns about the aging workforce in the construction industry. With a reduced apprentice to journeyperson ratio, they fear that the industry may struggle to replace retiring workers, hindering overall growth. Additionally, Hartley highlighted the potential impact on homeowners, mentioning that a lower ratio may lead to increased labor costs, particularly at a time when builders are already facing challenges due to interest rate hikes and material inflation. The implications of the ratio change could have wide-reaching effects on the industry and the economy as a whole.
Overall, the decision to reduce the apprenticeship ratio in Manitoba has sparked concerns among stakeholders in the construction industry. While the government aims to invest in training opportunities and promote the skilled trades, there are worries about the potential impact on the workforce, growth opportunities, and homeowners’ costs. Stakeholders like the Winnipeg Construction Association and companies like PowerTec Electric Inc. are grappling with the implications of the ratio change and how it will affect their operations moving forward. The future of apprenticeship programs and workforce development in Manitoba remains uncertain as stakeholders navigate these changes.
