17�Թ���

TORONTO – A follow-up Leger survey commissioned by Classic Fire + Life Safety finds Canadians remain unfamiliar with certain essential fire protection roles, such as sprinkler fitters and fire alarm technicians.

The Measuring Up The Trades study, conducted this summer, builds on the company’s 2024 survey and takes a deeper look at Canadians’ knowledge and perceptions of skilled trades, specifically in fire protection.

The survey revealed only three in 10 (30 per cent) are familiar with fire alarm technicians as a career option, and just over one in five (22 per cent) are familiar with sprinkler fitters. Only 11 per cent of respondents say they would know where to start if pursuing a career in either field.

“We hear a lot about in-demand skilled trades across 17�Թ��� — cooks, hairstylist, welders, industrial electricians, carpenters, plumbers — but rarely see our industry listed,” said Stanley Owah, talent acquisition specialist at Classic Fire +Life Safety, in a statement. “Raising awareness is not only key to our success as a business, it’s key to our end goal of protecting lives and property.”

Now in its second year, the national survey did show signs of progress for skilled trades as a whole.

When asked why they did not consider a career in a skilled trade, fewer respondents cited a lack of encouragement from parents and teachers (13 per cent in 2025 versus 16 per cent in 2024). When asked why they considered a career in skilled trades, more respondents indicated an appreciation for job security (38 per cent versus 29 per cent).

It also showed more Canadians have strongly considered a career in the skilled trades (18 per cent in 2025 compared to 15 per cent in 2024). 

However, while 76 per cent of respondents believe there are more skilled trade opportunities than before, this is a slight decrease from 80 per cent in 2024. Similar to the 78 per cent surveyed in 2024, 76 per cent of Canadians would encourage their children or others to consider a career in the trades.

“We want to help Canadians become familiar with the fire protection industry and the careers available at Classic Fire + Life Safety,” added Lucy Machado, VP of human resources. “This survey highlights some of the very real challenges we face, but we remain committed to raising awareness and working to ensure fire protection careers are recognized as a valued skilled trade with high pay, job security, and pride in the work we do to protect Canadians.”

The company is increasing outreach efforts, strengthening ties with secondary and post-secondary institutions, and working with governments and not-for-profit organizations. It has participated in several career fairs at schools including Seneca College and Fanshawe College and runs internship, co-op programs and training partnerships with several partners, the release adds.  

When asked about benefits of a career in skilled trades, 50 per cent cited hands-on work, 48 per cent said strong earning potential, 38 per cent pointed to job security, and 26 per cent said trades provide good opportunities to start a small business.

Classic Fire + Life Safety plans to commission this research on a regular basis to help both the company and the industry address the workforce shortages needed to meet rising demand, the release reads.