Georgian College is warning that communities across central and southwestern Ontario are growing faster than their workforce.
A new report is highlighting the need for coordinated action to address labour shortages in healthcare, housing, infrastructure and energy.
The college’s Georgian College Insights Report Fall 2026 examines demographic changes, labour-market forecasts and emerging technologies shaping Ontario’s future, while outlining how education, applied research and industry partnerships can help prepare workers for growing demands.
It notes that nearly 947,000 college-educated workers will be needed across Ontario over the next decade, highlighting the role colleges play in preparing the province’s future workforce.
“Georgian is proud to play a vital role in preparing the workforce Ontario and our economy need,” says Weaver. “Through work-integrated learning, applied research and exceptional partnerships, we help students unlock their potential and give employers access to highly adaptable talent. The regions we serve are stronger because our graduates are out there transforming industries and making a unique mark in their communities.”
According to the report, Georgian’s service area has experienced some of Ontario’s fastest population growth over the past decade. Simcoe County’s population increased by 26.1%, with a further 14% increase projected by 2031.
Over that period, the county’s working-age population is projected to grow by approximately 47,000 people, while the population of retirement age is expected to increase by more than 60,000.
Between 2025 and 2031, the number of occupations in the region requiring a college education is projected to increase by nearly 13,000, outpacing projected growth in demand for university-educated workers by 4,290.
Healthcare occupations, including nursing, nurse aides and patient service associates, are among the region’s fastest-growing professions.
The report also identifies anticipated skilled trades shortages as Ontario pursues housing, infrastructure and energy development goals. By 2034, one in six job openings is projected to be in skilled trades-related occupations.
The report highlights the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Regional job postings seeking AI skills increased by 521% between March 2025 and April 2026.
Despite that growth, communication, leadership, problem-solving and adaptability remain among the most sought-after skills in the regional labour market.
Major projects involving nuclear energy expansion, transmission infrastructure, healthcare investment and residential construction are also expected to drive demand for skilled workers across multiple industries.
Georgian says it is responding through program innovation, applied research, industry partnerships and facility investments. These include expanding its Centre for Skilled Trades, launching its Centre of Industrial Simulation and Prototyping, and participating in the Canadian Nuclear Association.
The report calls for coordinated action among employers, government, Georgian College and community partners to address workforce challenges and support the region’s long-term prosperity.
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