Over a million jobs expected to open in B.C. over next decade

The B.C. government expects over a million jobs to open across the province over the next decade.

The province’s latest Labour Market Outlook predicts 1,017,000 jobs opening between 2022 and 2032.

“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.”

Of the more than a million jobs opening over the next decade, 37 per cent of the opportunities will be created due to the growing economy and 63 per cent will open as a result of current workers retiring.

The outlook noted the key growth areas over the forecast period will be in technology and health care sectors.

The Labour Market Outlook predicts that nearly 80 per cent of the jobs will require some level of post-secondary education or training.

It’s noted that 37 per cent of the total job opening will be filled by people with a bachelor’s, graduate or first professional degree. Workers with apprenticeship certificates are expect to fill 12 per cent of the jobs over the next decade, and 29 per cent of job openings will be filled with people who have diplomas or other certificates.

“We’ve been through a lot together, but this outlook shows us that B.C.’s future is full of opportunity,” Minister of State for Workforce Development Andrew Mercier said.

“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.”

The outlook noted people aged 29 or younger entering the labour force for the first time are expected to fill 47 per cent of future job openings.

Additionally, people new to Canada are expected to fill 38 per cent of B.C.’s new job openings, and people coming from out of province will account for eight per cent of the jobs filled.

Employment in B.C. is expected to reach 3.1 million by 2032, up from the 2.7-million jobs in 2022.