Professional truck drivers are responsible for the movement of more than 90% of all consumer goods and products in Canada. They are an essential part to all aspects of the Canadian economy. However, due to compensation and lifestyle concerns, a severe national trucker shortage is beginning to brew. The economy is already feeling the effects of this shortage, and a long term crisis is not far away.
According to the Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council (CTHRC), there are currently approximately 31,000 trucking firms employing nearly 300,000 people, 68% of which are truckers. A recent survey revealed that about 20% of the workforce is over the age of 55, which entails a loss of over 40,000 people over the next 10 years. There was also a substantial vacancy rate at the time of the survey, thus allowing for even more potential job opportunities.
The good news is that while the industry may be facing a severe labor shortage, it is expecting economic growth, which will lead to more competitive salaries and benefits for all prospective members of the workforce. The CTHRC predicts that over 150 000 new truck drivers will be hired by 2012 in order to address the increased demand, the aging workforce, and the job vacancies.
Many members of the CTHRC are also vying for the government to have trucking labeled as a 'skilled trade', consequently making it even easier for recruiters to hire foreign workers. Thus, while the industry is undergoing a current workforce crisis, predictions for the future are looking fantastic, and everyone is encouraged to take serious consideration of an industry that will only prosper.
In order to obtain work in Canada, foreign workers must obtain Canadian work permits which require a Labor Marketing Opinion (LMO). An LMO is a labour market verification process whereby Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) assesses the offer of employment to ensure that the foreign worker will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market.
Generally speaking, for jobs located in Canada's major cities, the more specialized the position and the higher the salary offered, the higher the chances of obtaining a positive LMO. If trucking achieves the status of a specialized job, this whole process will be expedited and made much easier
FWCANADA's lawyers offer the knowledge and expertise to ensure that this entire process runs as smoothly as possible. Please consult our website to see how we can help and get you the job you need.
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