Discusses the educational imperatives of current and projected skilled labor needs in Canada and how they should be met. (JOW)

Skilled labor is one of the major requirements for economic growth. It is one of the major constraints on industrial expansion and diversification. Meeting the need for skilled labor in the 1980s is a challenge that demands a concerted effort by the national and provincial governments, educators, business, and labor. (Author)

The author observes that we are in a period in which unemployment is coupled with the shortage of skilled manpower. The response to these concerns must involve improved manpower planning between public and private sectors. (JOW)

Reports on a study of apprenticeship training designed to determine the future level of Canada's financial support and based on information provided by employers, unions, journeypersons, trade advisory committee members, and others. Results indicate that apprenticeship is effective in providing the labor market with skilled workers. (CH)

There is a need for a higher level of education among tradesmen; the article uses plumbers as an example, citing historical reasons for their low social status. Rapid technological developments, the need for plumbers to become skilled and educated technicians, and the implications of career changes are discussed. (MS)