Jobs for Today: Construction Trades and Net-Zero
Tuesday February 24, 2026 | 10:00–11:30 am PST / 1:00–2:30 pm EST
Webinar on Zoom
As Canada accelerates its transition toward net-zero emissions, the construction sector is poised to play a decisive role in both delivering climate solutions and creating good, unionized jobs. Meeting climate targets will require massive investments in clean energy infrastructure, energy-efficient buildings, and low-carbon transportation — all of which depend on a highly skilled construction workforce.
This CRIMT webinar will examine the findings of Jobs for Today: Construction Trades and Net-Zero, a recent report by Jim Stanford and Tyee Bridge, with input from John Calvert.
The discussion will explore the report’s projections of significant employment growth for skilled construction workers as Canada works toward its 2050 net-zero target. Speakers will reflect on how climate policy, industrial strategy, and infrastructure investment can be aligned to support high-quality jobs while accelerating decarbonization.
Beyond employment forecasts, the webinar will focus on the conditions required for a successful and just transition. This includes the need for sustained public investment in workforce training, strong labour standards, and inclusive pathways into construction trades. Particular attention will be given to the role of trade unions and Canada’s labour movement in shaping climate policy and securing the climate jobs of the future.
Bringing together trade unionists, researchers, environmental organizations, and students, this webinar offers a timely forum to discuss how climate action can be designed to advance economic justice, skills development, and good work.
Jim Stanford, Economist and Director, Centre for Future Work
John Calvert, Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University
Registration is required. Please register here:
