As America sharpens its elbows on the world stage—imposing tariffs, flexing economic muscle, and upending long-standing trade relationships—Canada faces an uncomfortable reality: our economic sovereignty is under increasing pressure. From auto manufacturing to agriculture, decisions made in Washington can have a ripple effect on Canadian industries, communities, and families. However, while policymakers grapple with these challenges at the federal level, we can make a powerful, long-term response closer to home: invest in career coaching for all Grade 9 and 10 students in Ontario. Yes, career conversations . It may not sound like the typical answer to trade wars or foreign interference, but helping young people make informed, future-ready career choices is one of our most strategic and nation-building investments. That’s precisely why the Ontario Ministry of Education has taken a bold step. The Halton Industry Education Council (HIEC) was awarded a contract to organize two 30-minute career conversations for all Grade 9 and 10 students in the province. These sessions connect students with individuals working in in-demand occupations in their region, giving them an inside look at real careers in their communities. This massive, collaborative effort involves all school districts, local chambers of commerce, regional economic development groups, unions, industry associations, and employers working to provide students with relevant, local career insights. Why does this matter? The global economy is changing at an unprecedented rate. Automation, climate change, and artificial intelligence are transforming the nature of work. Supply chains are vulnerable. Foreign policy decisions—like Buy American provisions or retaliatory tariffs—can devastate local industries overnight. In this landscape, Canada needs more than a trade strategy. We need a talent strategy. Career conversations equip students with the tools to navigate this complexity. It connects them with the real labour market in their area. It helps them see pathways in vital domestic sectors—from clean tech to cybersecurity to skilled trades—to build skills that support personal success and national resilience. When young people see how their interests align with Canada’s future needs, they’re more likely to stay engaged in school, pursue high-opportunity training or education, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Furthermore, universal access to career conversations helps level the playing field. Without real-world guidance, students from affluent or well-connected families often have a head start—access to mentors, internships, or insider knowledge about career paths. Students from marginalized or rural communities usually don’t. By making career conversations a right, not a privilege, we ensure that all students, regardless of background, can imagine a future where they belong and thrive. This isn’t just sound social policy. It’s smart economics. Research shows that career development pays dividends, including higher earnings, lower dropout rates, improved mental health, and reduced reliance on social programs. Some Canadian studies suggest that $2 to $5 is returned for every dollar invested in youth career development. Most importantly, it strengthens our economic sovereignty. A country that nurtures its talent is less vulnerable to the whims of foreign powers, and a country with a clear vision for how its youth can contribute is harder to push around. Career conversations may not grab headlines like trade disputes do, but they might be Canada's ace in the long game of global competitiveness. Ontario Career Lab