Canada’s northern labour markets and economies have unique and distinct features. Understanding their nuances is critical to smart decision-making about policy and the labour market.  

As part of its “Learning From One Another: A Comparative Analysis of Labour Market Needs and Corresponding Skills in Northern Ontario, Yukon, and Nunavut” project, the Conference Board of Canada collaborated with Future Skills Canada to release this report centred on the territory of Yukon.  

Their analyses forecast the following for the territory during the period from 2024 to 2045: economic growth of 41% and employment growth of 10%. While these are positive metrics that suggest a hopeful future, the existing worker supply still presents challenges. For example, in 2023, Yukon had the highest rate of vacant jobs in any Canadian jurisdiction. The need for workers is compounded by the

• aging population 

• housing crisis 

• already low employment rates 

However, the report’s analyses also highlighted how these challenges could be addressed. One key strategy is strengthening the education-to-labour-market pipeline. Yukon University’s transition from a college to a university could help build capacity in the workforce. In addition, meaningful engagement with First Nations, continued investment in attracting workers, and further investment in entrepreneurship could foster a growing and sustainable economy in Yukon.