B.C.’s latest Labour Market Outlook forecasts more than one million job openings in the next decade, showing job and career opportunities that people of all ages can use to map out their education, skills training and career paths.

“Despite the global economic challenges we’re facing, there are significant job opportunities for people over the next decade as we keep building an economy that is inclusive, sustainable and doesn’t leave any British Columbians behind,” said Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills Selina Robinson. “Our government is taking action with our Future Ready plan to break down barriers to ensure people have the skills and supports they need for these good-paying careers and employers can access the talent they need to grow.”

Employment in B.C. is expected to reach 3.1 million by 2032, up from the 2.7 million jobs in 2022. Employment will grow an average of 1.3 per cent per year for the forecast period. Key growth areas will be in the technology and health care sectors.

“We’ve been through a lot together, but this outlook shows us that B.C.’s future is full of opportunity,” said Minister of State for Workforce Development Andrew Mercier. “There is no shortage of good-paying careers available, especially in the trades. With 83,000 job openings in the next decade, there has never been a better time to get into the skilled trades and we’re working to expand access to the training people need.”

More than one million job openings are expected between 2022 and 2032. Of these, 37 per cent are due to a growing economy while 63 per cent of the openings will be the result of retiring workers.

Over the next decade, more than 83,000 job openings are expected in the skilled trades. The construction trades occupations with the highest projected job openings include: construction trades helpers and labourers; carpenters; heavy equipment operators (except crane); electricians (except industrial and power system); welders and related machine operators; and plumbers.