There is plenty of reason for commercial painters in Toronto and Ontario to look forward to 2016, partially because of the positive economic indicators that forecasters are seeing. Spending has been on an uptick swing, which means more construction is likely to occur throughout the coming months. All that construction translates to one big, exciting reality for union members in the painting trade: the steady need for professionally trained commercial painters.
Delving down further, some of the specific trends for Toronto and the GTA regarding the construction industry include:
- The growth in a desire for revitalization. Take Bloor and Bathurst, for example. This Toronto development project is a planned combination of commercial stores and open spaces. Not only is it predicted to change the face of the neighborhood, but it is expected to bring new jobs and tourism into the area.
- The growth in spending. Overall spending by organizations throughout southern Ontario translates to upgrades in working environments. Some of these upgrades will no doubt include renovations, such as repainted interior walls, ceilings and floors.
- More condos on the horizon. Condominiums have proven to be an excellent way to maximize the real estate potential of a piece of land, and developers trying to woo individuals and families into the city are actively building.
- Retiring commercial painters making way for new workers. In fact, there is expected to be no shortage of job opportunities through 2024 for men and women who want to work in Toronto and the rest of Ontario.
- Housing due to increased immigration. As immigrants flow into Canada and turn their sights on Toronto’s region, they require housing. As noted, this can come in the form of condos, but it can also be seen in newer developments created by intrepid developers who may choose to rely on commercial painters for parts of their projects.
- A move toward greener builders. The need for eco-friendlier buildings is taking center stage, and commercial painters might just be part of the process. Commercial painters help “green” a building through the addition of environmentally safe products applied through earth-friendly techniques.
For those who have considered getting into the commercial painting trade, now is an excellent time to take advantage of opportunities like apprenticeships through the IUPAT. Becoming an IUPAT member can be the first step toward a career that has an extremely positive, lucrative outlook for the coming year, as well as far beyond this decade.
