Ontario's Mining Industry Desperately Needs 5,000 Workers by 2030 – Here's How to Get Hired

Ontario's mining industry is facing a critical labor shortage and needs to fill 5,000 jobs by 2030 to meet growing demand, according to the Ontario Mining Association (OMA). With an aging workforce and increasing competition from other sectors, the industry is ramping up efforts to attract new talent.

The Challenge

OMA president Priya Tandon says the labor crunch is a top concern. 21% of mining workers are over 55, and the industry competes with construction, manufacturing, and energy for skilled workers. The province has 35 significant mineral projects that could reach production in the next decade, further driving demand.

Who Is Needed?

Roles span from mining engineers and geologists to skilled tradespeople like millwrights and heavy equipment mechanics. Tandon emphasizes that the industry needs a diverse range of professionals.

Training Initiatives

To address the shortage, the federal government launched the Mining and Minerals Workforce Alliance to strengthen the skilled workforce. Ontario also invested $3.27 million in a new training centre at Dynamic Earth in Sudbury, aiming to train 7,000 individuals annually.

Some companies are taking matters into their own hands. Agnico Eagle offers a three-month paid training program at its underground school, guaranteeing full-time jobs to graduates. Northern College revamped its mining engineering technician program to align with industry needs.

Changing Perceptions

Jamie Johnston, dean at Northern College, admits she once viewed mining as "dangerous and dirty" but now sees it as a high-tech, rewarding career. Sudbury MPP Jamie West advocates for introducing mining careers to students at a younger age, especially in southern Ontario where awareness is low.

Immigration and Optimism

Mining companies are also using the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program to bring in skilled workers from abroad. Despite the challenge, Tandon is optimistic: "With mining under such a spotlight, there are many good initiatives to get projects going. It requires people to get it done."

The mining industry competes with other sectors like construction and manufacturing to attract skilled workers.

The Ontario Mining Association brings university students to the Greenstone Gold Mine to show them a working open-pit mine.

Priya Tandon, president of the Ontario Mining Association, says some mining companies have invested more in training.

Northern College students learning how to survey out in the field.