Georgian College report flags workforce gaps and boosts training in trades, health and industrial simulation
Georgian College’s 'From Insight to Impact' report finds rapid regional growth and rising demand for skilled workers, especially in health, trades and energy. Georgian announces expansion of its Centre for Skilled Trades, a new Centre of Industrial Simulation and Prototyping and membership in the Canadian Nuclear Association.
The 'From Insight to Impact' report highlights a widening gap between population growth and qualified labour in central and southwestern Ontario. It records a 26.1% rise in Simcoe County population (projected +14% by 2031), an anticipated increase of about 47,000 working‑age residents versus 60,000+ retirees, and forecasts nearly 13,000 college‑level jobs between 2025 and 2031—4,290 more than projected university‑level growth. Georgian is expanding its Centre for Skilled Trades, launching a Centre of Industrial Simulation and Prototyping and joining the Canadian Nuclear Association. The report also notes a 521% surge in regional job postings seeking AI skills (March 2025–April 2026) and stresses ongoing demand in healthcare, construction and energy. Report launch: Oct 13, 2026, Barrie Campus (5:00–7:00 p.m.).