The push for young people to get into the skilled trades is a hot topic right now and for a good reason. With the trade gap growing, we need a new generation of skilled trades professionals to keep up with the demands of a growing world. Mike Holmes, in his latest podcast episode discusses what are the most-in-demand and least popular skilled trades careers right now.
Check out Episode 1, Season 5 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast where Mike Holmes talks to experts about skilled trades shortage and what we can do to encourage more youths to enter the trades. Available on all podcast streaming platforms including Mike Holmes’ YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
According to Frank Melecca, a high school renovation teacher at Judith Nyman Secondary School, some of the most in-demand skilled trades include electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and carpenters. These professionals are essential to both new construction and maintenance, and with the ongoing housing boom and large-scale infrastructure projects across North America, the demand is only rising.
These skilled trade careers offer stability, solid wages, and long-term growth—making them smart choices for anyone entering the workforce or looking to switch careers.
However, there’s another trade that deserves more attention than its getting and that’s masonry, says Frank Melecca, skilled trades instructor at Judith Nyman Secondary in Brampton, Ontario. Bricklaying, stonework, and concrete finishing aren’t as popular as some of the other trades, which is actually good news for those entering the field. With fewer people training in masonry, there’s less competition, which means more job opportunities and better pay.
It’s also a trade where you can see the results of your work, where you see buildings, walkways, and structures that stand the test of time. Organizations like the Ontario Masonry Training Centre and the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers make it easier to break into the field by offering hands-on training and even connecting students with paid apprenticeships right out of school. That kind of head start is hard to beat.
From Mike Holmes’ perspective—someone who’s spent decades in the construction industry and is known for his no-nonsense approach to quality and safety—skilled trades aren’t just jobs, they’re essential careers that build our communities. Holmes has consistently emphasized the importance of doing things right the first time and believes skilled tradespeople are the backbone of that mission.
Here are some tips and advice for getting into the skilled trades.
He’s a huge advocate for bringing more young people into the trades, ending the stigma and often highlights how these careers offer financial independence, pride in your work, and a real impact on the world around you. Mike’s not-for-profit charity, The Holmes Foundation also offers Make it Right Charity Awards to students entering or enrolled in a residential construction or skilled trade program at a Canadian college, university or trade school.
Read more about how the Holmes Foundation is supporting the Skilled Trades.
As Holmes says, “When you learn a skilled trade, you have a career for life. We need more people who care about their work and want to do it right—and the trades need you now more than ever.”
Listen to the full Episode: “Why is There a Shortage of Skilled Trade Workers? How VR Training and Early Education Can Help Solve the Problem.” on all podcast streaming platforms including Mike Holmes’ YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Looking for a new podcast? Check Out Mike Holmes’s Holmes on Homes Podcast
The Holmes on Homes podcast goes deep into the world of construction, skilled trades, and smart building. But it’s also about the bigger picture—how to live better, build safer, and make confident choices about your home. Mike Holmes and his guests bring honest insights, expert know-how, and real-life stories to every episode, making it a must-listen whether you’re on the tools or just want to understand how things are built right.
About Mike Holmes
Mike Holmes is the renowned host of Holmes on Homes, a popular podcast where he shares his expert insights on home renovation, construction, and problem-solving. With years of experience in the building industry, Mike offers listeners practical advice and solutions, helping them navigate home improvement challenges effectively.
About Sherry Holmes
Sherry Holmes, daughter of renowned contractor Mike Holmes, is a skilled contractor and television personality. Following in her father’s footsteps, she brings her expertise in home renovation to various projects. Passionate about quality craftsmanship and helping others, Sherry contributes to making homes safer and more sustainable.
She actively supports and promotes youth and young women in the trades through organizations like Skills Canada, World Skills, and Conestoga College’s Jill of All Trades. Sherry is also an official Meagan Bebenek Foundation ambassador and spokesperson, dedicated to raising awareness and funding pediatric brain tumour research.