Most Canadians say more support needed to prepare young people for jobs, survey finds

The survey, commissioned by Meridian Credit Union, found that seven in 10 respondents believe Canada may not be doing enough to help people aged 18 to 29 find careers, while one in six said young adults lack the skills needed to succeed in today's job market.

Concerns were particularly pronounced among younger Canadians, with 65% of respondents aged 18 to 24 and 52% of those aged 25 to 34 expressing doubts about the effectiveness of current skills-training programmes.

The findings come as Ottawa plans to invest C$6 billion over five years to recruit, train and hire up to 100,000 skilled trades workers by 2031 amid persistent labour shortages across several industries.

"These findings reinforce the importance of creating clear, practical pathways that connect people to real opportunities," Sarah Saso, vice-president of ESG and social impact at Meridian Credit Union, said in a statement.

"For many young people facing economic barriers, the challenge isn't motivation; it's access."

The survey was released alongside renewed attention on Meridian's Reframe programme, a trades-focused training initiative that combines paid, hands-on learning with support services such as housing assistance, transportation, food security programmes and mental health resources.

According to Meridian, nearly 90% of Reframe participants move into employment, self-employment or further education after completing the programme.

The credit union said it has invested C$1.3 million in the initiative since its launch in 2024 and recently committed an additional C$200,000 to expand the programme into Grey and Bruce counties in partnership with educational charity Elephant Thoughts.

Labour shortages in construction, manufacturing and other skilled trades have emerged as a growing concern for employers and policymakers, particularly as Canada seeks to increase housing construction and infrastructure development while replacing an ageing workforce.

The survey results suggest growing public support for practical, employment-focused training models that connect participants directly with jobs and industry needs.