Countering Tariffs with Career Conversations

Facilitating career conversations between K-12 students and adults working in sectors where their talents will be needed is not just a smart educational strategy—it is a national imperative in the face of current economic and geopolitical realities. Here’s why:

1. Responding to U.S. Tariffs with a Skilled, Resilient Workforce

Exorbitant tariffs imposed by the U.S. pose a significant threat to Canada's exports and industrial sectors, encompassing a range of industries from steel and aluminum to agriculture and clean technology. To maintain economic stability and competitiveness, Canada must pivot quickly, diversifying its industrial output and workforce capabilities. Career conversations help students explore and prepare for roles in emerging or affected sectors, such as advanced manufacturing, agri-food innovation, or trade logistics. This proactive approach ensures a pipeline of talent ready to strengthen domestic production and respond to shifting trade patterns.

2. Removing Domestic Trade Barriers Requires Interprovincial Talent Mobility

Efforts to reduce impediments to trade between provinces call for a workforce that understands how their skills can be applied across regions and sectors. Career conversations reveal opportunities beyond local or traditional pathways, encouraging youth to consider high-demand roles in construction, transportation, renewable energy, and technology that support national integration and growth. With guidance and conversations with adult workers, students gain the confidence to pursue mobility and the credentials that will allow them to work where they are most needed.

3. Nation-Building Projects Demand Human Capital

Large-scale infrastructure and development projects, such as clean energy grids, digital transformation, massive mining projects, port expansions, and residential construction at a build rate not seen since World War II, cannot succeed without a future-ready workforce. These projects will require skilled tradespeople, engineers, environmental scientists, and project managers, all AI-savvy. Career conversations ensure students understand the purpose and possibilities of these projects, aligning their aspirations with national goals and helping fill the looming skills gaps.

4. Expanding Global Trade Requires Globally Aware Talent

To open new international markets, Canada needs culturally competent, multilingual, tech-literate professionals in logistics, international business, cybersecurity, climate policy, and beyond. Career conversations introduce students to these global-facing careers early on, fostering ambition, adaptability, and global awareness—traits essential for Canada to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and competitive world.

Conclusion:

Based on current population trends, graduation rates, and workforce entry patterns, approximately 4 to 4.5 million Canadian students are expected to transition from school to work over the next decade. They will represent roughly one in every five members of the Canadian workforce during this period. We must help them transition smoothly from school to jobs they love in sectors Canada needs for future prosperity.

Career conversations are a low-cost, high-impact intervention that can dramatically improve how youth navigate their future—and how Canada prepares for its own. By connecting students with adults in strategic sectors, we are not only investing in individual potential but also equipping our nation with the human capital it needs to adapt, compete, and prosper.

It's starting to happen! The Ontario Ministry of Education is mandating career conversations for all Grade 9 and 10 students. The Ministry selected the Halton Industry Education Council to coordinate this unprecedented initiative through Ontario Career Lab. As an honorary HIEC team member, I'm helping strategize how career coaches working in high-demand economic sectors will complement the work of guidance teacher-counsellors, community organizations, and parents for 315,000 students. If you or anyone you know would be willing to spend as little as an hour a year to talk to a small group of students about your career, please go to Ontario Career Lab.