YELLOWKNIFE (April 20, 2016) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) released today new labour market information on NWT jobs in demand over the next 15 years. This critical information will help northerners make informed decisions so they may maximize the NWT employment opportunities that are and will be available over the coming years.

As part of the Skills 4 Success Initiative, the GNWT partnered with The Conference Board of Canada to produce the comprehensive Northwest Territories Labour Market Forecast and Needs Assessment and accompanying Labour Market Information Resource. 

Quotes

“The GNWT has worked with experts in the field to determine future labour market demands so it can make the right decisions about what programs to offer students, job seekers and employers.  This work supports the Skills 4 Success Initiative and will help individuals successfully get jobs in the NWT and help businesses to find the employees they need.  It aligns with the priorities of the 18^th Legislative Assembly:  to foster lifelong learning, skills development, training and employability.”
- Alfred Moses, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

“This level of forecasting detail is the first of its kind in the NWT that provides occupational demand for the next 15 years combined with data on the NWT’s labour force.  This is key information from which to base decisions on education and training, to plan actions for the future, and invest in developing a skilled Northern workforce.”
- Adam Fiser, The Conference Board of Canada

Quick Facts

• Over the next 15 years, it is forecasted there will be 28,500 to 36,700 job openings in the NWT, of which 78% will typically require some form of postsecondary education and/or extensive work experience and seniority. 
• Approximately 98% of the 28,500 job openings will be to replace workers who have retired or moved from the NWT. 
• The GNWT will use this important labour market information to develop a four-year action plan which supports the Skills 4 Success Strategic Framework goals and priorities.  Informed engagement with stakeholders will continue so that the Skills 4 Success vision can be realized, where NWT residents have the skills, knowledge and attitudes for employment success.

Related Links

• Department of Education, Culture and Employment
• The Conference Board of Canada

Media contact

Jacqueline McKinnon
Manager, Communications and Public Affairs
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel:  (867) 767-9352 x 71073
E-mail:  Jacqueline_mckinnon@gov.nt.ca