
We've updated this article in June 2025 since its original publication in spring 2024. Projected industry growth trends remain similar to last year, with healthcare, business, tech and early childhood education remaining strong employment sectors.
Summary of Changes Since Last Year
Job projections until 2031 have shifted slightly due to changes in different industries and the economy. We’ve noted position changes below. Note that because this year’s projections span a shorter time period, the increase in positions will seem lower. This is because last year, we projected job growth from 2023 to 2031, covering eight years, and this year, we’re projecting this growth from 2025 to 2031, covering six years.
- Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses moved up to #1.
- Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates moved down to #2.
- Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations up to #5.
- Administrative officers up to #6.
- Store shelf stockers, clerks and order fillers up to #7.
- Light duty cleaners down to #8.
- Retail sales supervisors down to #9.
- Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations down to #10.
- Elementary school and kindergarten teachers down to #13.
- Material handlers down to #14.
- Food and beverage servers moved off this list, but is projected to see 4,024 new positions in the next six years.
- Bus drivers, subway operators and other transit operators moved off this list, but is projected to see 12,250 new positions in the next six years.
- Early childhood educators and assistants moved off this list but is projected to see a growth of 10,582 new positions in the next six years.
- Software engineers and designers, Computer and information systems managers, and Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers all moved up onto this list.
Planning your education is a big decision and knowing which careers could be in demand when you graduate is helpful. With the job market constantly evolving, driven by technology, innovation and shifting workforce needs, it can be tough to predict what the future holds. That’s why we’re diving into the data to see what job prospects could look like as far into the future as 2031.
Of course, your ideal path depends on more than just job demand. Your interests, strengths and goals matter too. Try our Pathfinder Quiz to help narrow down your options.
What is NOC?
NOC stands for National Occupation Classification. Statistics Canada primarily uses this classification system to classify different occupations. We’ve used it here so you can find more info on each occupation through the Statistics Canada website.
Table of Contents
1. Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
2. Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
3. Transport truck drivers
4. Information systems specialists
5. Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
6. Administrative officers
7. Store shelf stockers, clerks and order fillers
8. Light duty cleaners
9. Retail sales supervisors
10. Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations
11. Software engineers and designers
12. Computer and information systems managers
13. Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
14. Material handlers
15. Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers
Top 15 In-Demand Jobs in Canada
1. Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
NOC: 31301
Average annual income: $86,952*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 15% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 54,105 positions in Canada.
What does a nurse do?
A registered nurse or registered psychiatric nurse works within our health care system to provide direct nursing care to patients, health education programs and consultative services related to nursing. This profession can include tasks such as assessing patients to determine appropriate nursing interventions, administering medications and treatments prescribed by a physician and assisting in medical procedures.
These roles require specific education and training, including completion of an approved registered nursing program. If you wish to specialize, additional education or training is required.
Who is this a good fit for?
Nursing is a good career option for people with compassion and an interest in health and caring for others. Nursing can be emotionally and physically demanding so individuals with resiliency and flexibility excel in this field. Communication and critical thinking skills are important and an interest in continually learning is also a good value to have.
How to become a nurse
Nurses are required to have completed a university, college or other approved registered nursing program and additional academic training to specialize. You will also need to register with a regulatory body in the province where you will practice. For some roles, you may need a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. Check out these nursing programs:
- Collaborative Nursing: This accredited four-year degree is a collaborative program between Fanshawe College and Western University. You’ll graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BScN). Get hands-on experience in a 12-week clinical placement in your final term. Graduates can apply for registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario.
- Practical Nursing: This two-year Ontario College Diploma will give you hands-on experience through clinical practice and simulations in addition to in-class learning and prepare you for the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination. If successfully completed, you’ll be able to register for the College of Nurses of Ontario as a Registered Practical Nurse.
Interested in health care, but don’t have the admission requirements for a nursing degree or diploma? Take the one-year Pre-Health Sciences Pathway certificate program and follow this pathway into your desired nursing program.
2. Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates
NOC: 33102
Average annual income: $49,781*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 16% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 53,489 positions in Canada.
What is a nurse aide?
This classification of roles includes things like nurse aides, orderlies, special care facility attendants and hospice workers. See all occupations under nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates. Paramedics and nurses are not included. In this type of career, you would assist patients with everyday activities, such as dressing and eating, and perform tasks like taking blood pressure or temperature, carrying messages and reports between departments and general maintenance.
Who is this a good fit for?
This type of job is a good fit for those interested in working in health care or helping people but who do not want to pursue or don’t currently have additional education to become a nurse or doctor. People with good communication skills, attention to detail and teamwork skills will do well in this field.
How to get into this field
Some high school education is typically required and on-the-job training may be provided. CPR and first aid training are usually required. Some positions under this classification may require post-secondary education or additional certifications.
- Pre-Health Sciences Pathway to Advanced Diplomas and Degrees is a good place to start if you’re interested in working in health care. Additionally, this program will set the stage for a pathway into a diploma or degree program in health.
- Personal Support Worker: This one-year college certificate prepares you for a personal support worker position through theoretical and practical learning experiences. Build a solid foundational knowledge in health, wellness and personal support.
3. Transport truck drivers
NOC: 73300
Average annual income: $53,785*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 8% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 28,121 positions in Canada.
What does a transport truck driver do?
This occupation involves driving straight trucks or tractor-trailers to transport freight. This can include both long-haul and short-haul transport truck drivers. Transport truck drivers may operate vehicles 4,500 kg and over between urban centres or along inter-provincial or even international routes. This occupation can include planning, vehicle inspections and emergency repairs. Drivers may drive alone, as part of a two-person team or in a convoy.
Who is this a good fit for?
If you love driving this job might be for you, specifically if you like driving large vehicles or long distances. People who appreciate independence and have good practical problem-solving skills as well as an interest in vehicle maintenance may enjoy this field.
How to become a transport truck driver
While transport truck drivers usually do need to have completed high school, a post-secondary education is usually not required. However, you may need to complete an accredited driver training course or obtain a specific licence depending on the type of vehicle you will be driving.
Review our Driver Training and Testing Courses to learn about different licensing options.
Make sure you complete the required steps for obtaining an A, D or F class licence before starting your course!
4. Information systems specialists
NOC: 21222
Average annual income: $94,400*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 10% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 24,687 positions in Canada.
What is an information systems specialist?
Information systems specialists design, develop, test and set up information technology (IT) systems. They improve infrastructure, collect and analyze data, update processes and perform maintenance within these systems. Overall, their role is focused on optimizing IT to meet organizational needs and goals. They can work in public or private sector organizations.
Who is this a good fit for?
Individuals who like to work with technology and computers will enjoy this type of role. You’ll also want to develop other important skills such as problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, communication skills, adaptability, and teamwork
How to become an information system specialist
This role often requires completion of a college program or a bachelor’s degree in a related field as well as computer programming experience. Additional credentials can also be obtained for certain positions.
Check out these options:
- Computer Systems Technician: In this two-year Ontario College Diploma program, learn how to provide enterprise-level front-line support for today’s future-forward companies. Get to know the kinds of systems organizations use and how to work with them as well as how to work within a team to solve problems and provide support.
- Computer Systems Technology: Gain hands-on experience with this 3-year advanced diploma co-op program, which covers networking, security, data storage and more from design and implementation to management and troubleshooting of these systems.
- Technical Systems Analysis: Learn how to collect and understand vast amounts of data to help make business decisions in this one-year graduate certificate program. Prepare for a career by building a solid foundation in business data analysis and modelling, application software development, business process and resource planning and communication skills.
5. Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
NOC: 11202
Average annual income: $77,273*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 10% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 21,068 positions in Canada.
What do marketing, advertising and PR professionals do?
Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations (PR) work to promote different products, services and even ideas. They can also provide communication strategies to manage public opinion. These professionals are needed in many different types of organizations, including advertising agencies, corporations, government organizations, and many more–any business that needs advertising may employ these individuals.
Who is this a good fit for?
If you have an interest in marketing and promotion, this career might be for you. People who have a creative mind as well as an analytical side will excel in this type of role. You’ll also want to have strong communication skills, crisis management skills and a client-centred approach.
How to start a career in marketing
Usually, you’ll be expected to have either a degree or a college diploma in a marketing field or a related subject for jobs in this type of career. Check out some program options in the marketing and PR field:
- Business - Marketing: Take this two-year marketing diploma to build foundational skills in marketing in both traditional and digital platforms. You’ll also learn about business and accounting, market research, analytics and more. Progress from this program into our Marketing Advanced Diploma or our Honours Bachelor of Digital Marketing.
- Business - Marketing (Co-op): Get hands-on experience with this two-year co-op marketing diploma program. Gain foundational skills in key topics in marketing such as analysis, digital marketing, research and communications and get work experience during your co-op.
- Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Digital Marketing): You will gain hands-on experience in this four-year Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree program through a paid co-op work term. You’ll gain the core fundamentals of business as well as cutting-edge training in specialized digital marketing courses. You’ll also be able to pursue a master’s degree at many other institutions.
Level up with a graduate certificate:
- Digital Communication Management: Advance your career with the tools and skills to develop and distribute content to attract and engage diverse audiences in this intense, one-year program. Gain functional knowledge and specialized skills in digital communications including content strategy and curation, user experience and user design.
6. Administrative officers
NOC: 13100
Average annual income: $61,767*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see an 8% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 19,617 positions in Canada.
What does an administrative officer do?
Administrative officers work to coordinate office or workplace operations, implement administrative procedures, establish priorities and manage information and records. Administrative officers are needed in all kinds of businesses and organizations in both the public and private sectors.
Who is this a good fit for?
Administrative officers usually have stellar communication skills and an interest in keeping things well-organized. You may want to consider this career if you have good attention to detail, comfort with computers and record keeping as well as information management and time management skills.
How to become an administrative officer
You must have completed your high school education and typically, a post-secondary education in this field is required, such as a degree or college diploma. Check out some programs you can take to get there:
- Office Administration - General: This one-year Ontario College Certificate will prepare you for an office administration role. You’ll develop skills in communication, problem-solving, computer applications, accounting and office procedures. Take this program and follow our pathway into the third semester of either Executive or Health Services diplomas.
- Office Administration - Executive: This professional two-year Ontario College Diploma program will set you up for a successful professional office administration career. It’s designed to provide an extensive and practical understanding of business operations, technology and processes.
- Office Administration - Health Services: In this two-year Ontario College Diploma, you’ll gain skills both in class and in a work placement term. You’ll learn about medical terminology and transcription, patient management, billing and office procedures.
- Business Administration - Leadership and Management: If you’ve completed the two-year business diploma program, continue for a third year to earn this Ontario College Advanced Diploma. Gain skills in leadership, strategic planning, performance management and more.
7. Store shelf stockers, clerks and order fillers
NOC: 65102
Average annual income: $34,401*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 7% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 19,559 positions in Canada.
What do shelf stockers, clerks and order fillers do?
In this occupation, workers stock shelves, pack customer orders and price items. They may also perform some cleaning duties, operate cash registers and computers for electronic transactions and work with machinery to move and organize products.
Who is this a good fit for?
This is another great role for those seeking to start their career or gain work experience to move upwards. You’ll want to have good organizational and communication skills as well as be interested in providing good customer service, reliability and flexibility.
How to get into this field
You’ll likely need to have some high school education to secure this type of position. If you’re looking to upgrade or advance, leadership courses are available.
8. Light duty cleaners
NOC: 65310
Average annual income: $39,598*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 7% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 18,654 positions in Canada.
What is a light duty cleaner?
Light duty cleaners work in a variety of locations offering light-duty cleaning services including sweeping, mopping, dusting and washing linens. They are employed by a variety of organizations to clean spaces such as offices, lobbies, hotels, hospitals and more.
Who is this a good fit for?
If you’re considering a role as a cleaner, you’ll want to have great attention to detail and knowledge of a variety of cleaning techniques. You’ll need to know how to use chemicals safely. Physical stamina is also important in this role as it requires a lot of movement.
How to become a light duty cleaner
This role typically does not require any specific post-secondary education, but you’ll want to have a high school diploma. Additionally, on-the-job training is usually provided.
9. Retail sales supervisors
NOC: 62010
Average annual income: $45,181*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 7% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 18,367 positions in Canada.
What does a retail sales supervisor do?
Retail sales supervisors work in retail environments, supervising and coordinating the activities of workers. In this occupation, workers perform duties such as assigning and scheduling work, managing inventory, hiring, training and more. Retail sales supervisors can work in a variety of different types of organizations including retail stores, wholesale businesses and telemarketing agencies.
Who is this a good fit for?
If you like working with people in a leadership role, this occupation could be for you. Enjoying and excelling in sales is also an important part of this role along with customer service, so you’ll want to have strong communication skills.
How to get the role of retail sales supervisor
Typically, you’ll want to have your high school diploma to get this type of role. Many businesses are also looking for people who have retail sales experience. Take this career to the next level with the following program:
- Fashion Marketing and Management: Learn the business, technological and visual presentation skills needed to excel in a career in the retail industry. This two-year diploma program prepares you for the workplace with in-class learning and real-world opportunities like operating our online and on-campus retail store as well as networking with industry professionals.
If you’d like to exercise your leadership skills, check out our leadership courses for individuals and employees.
10. Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations
NOC: 65201
Average annual income: $35,354*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 4% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 16,114 positions in Canada.
What do food counter attendants do?
People in this occupation help prepare simple food items, serve customers, clear tables, clean kitchen and restaurant areas and perform other activities to assist in food preparation. These employees often work in cafés, restaurants, hotels and hospitals.
Who is this a good fit for?
If you like food preparation and fast-paced work, this occupation might be for you. Often, many people who don’t yet have extensive work experience or education will start in this type of environment to gain work experience and advance. You’ll want to have great customer service, attention to detail, flexibility and time management skills to excel in this role.
How to get into this field
Usually, you’ll need some high school education for this type of occupation, but on-the-job training is provided to give you the required skills.
Boost your culinary career with the following program:
- Culinary Skills: If you want to advance or begin a career in the culinary environment, this one-year program can help you do just that! Develop your culinary skills, fine-tune food prep and knife skills and gain theoretical knowledge in nutrition, menu planning, and more.
11. Software Engineers and Designers
NOC: 21231
Average annual income: $118,051*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 14% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an estimated increase of 15,061 positions in Canada.
What do software engineers and designers do?
Software engineers and designers build, design, and maintain software for websites and applications that are both functional and user-friendly. They write code, develop system architecture, create user interfaces, and improve the functionality and usability of websites, apps and other digital tools. Their role focuses on delivering effective, user-friendly technology solutions that meet organizational and user needs. They can work in a wide range of industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, education and the public sector.
Who is this a good fit for?
This type of job is a good fit for those interested in technology, problem-solving and creating user-friendly digital experiences. People who are curious, creative and adaptable as well as those who have strong attention to detail, collaboration skills and an interest in continuous learning will do well in this field.
How to become a software engineer or designer
You’ll typically need a college diploma or university degree in computer science or a related field. Here are some programs you can consider to get into this field:
Computer Programming and Analysis Co-op: This three-year advanced diploma program provides you with software development and coding skills as well as the soft skills needed to effectively communicate for a career in IT. Hands-on experience combines with theory to help you graduate with all the skills you need for your career or to develop further skills with a graduate certificate.
Web Development and Internet Applications: This two-year Ontario College Diploma program prepares you for a career as a full-stack web developer. The curriculum covers programming languages, databases, user interface design, and mobile application development. Upon completion, you'll be equipped to work in web development firms, IT departments, or as a freelancer.
Software and Information Systems Testing (Co-op): This one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate will prepare you for a career in software and systems testing. You’ll develop skills in test planning, quality assurance, software tools, project management, and business analysis. Take this program to launch or enhance your IT career and gain hands-on experience through a co-operative education work term.
12. Computer and information systems managers
NOC: 20012
Average annual income: $139,103*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 13% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an estimated increase of 13,241 positions in Canada.
What do computer and information systems managers do?
Computer and information systems managers oversee much of the work done within computer and tech systems. They direct an organization’s IT systems activities, plan and coordinate projects and supervise teams of IT professionals. Many types of companies and organizations, including public and private sectors, require computer and information systems managers.
Who is this a good fit for?
Computer and information systems manager is a great role for those who like working with technology and computer systems and enjoy the management side of things. Project management and communication are both important skills to have along with leadership, planning and problem solving.
How to become a computer and information systems manager
To become a computer and information systems manager, you will need a solid foundation in computer science. Many positions do require the completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field and/or multiple years of experience. Typically, you’ll want to get some experience in roles related to IT systems and leadership experience to secure this role. To get started in the field, you can check out these career-ready programs:
Computer Systems Technician: This two-year college diploma program will prepare you for a career in technology and information systems. You’ll gain the skills needed to provide front-line support across enterprise-scale environments, including networking, security and more for multi-vendor IT systems.
Computer Systems Technology (Co-op): Earn an advanced diploma in this three-year program focused on designing, installing, troubleshooting and maintaining enterprise-level information systems. In addition to gaining the necessary knowledge on networking, security, virtualization and more, you’ll gain practical experience during your co-ops.
Information Technology Infrastructure: If you’ve already got a background in IT, take it further with a one-year graduate certificate in IT infrastructure. You’ll gain knowledge and practical skills in operating systems, server support, networking and security.
Need to build your pre-requisite skills and foundational knowledge in IT?
Check out our Pre-Technology program
13. Elementary school and kindergarten teachers
NOC: 41221
Average annual income: $96,033*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 6% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an increase of over 13,237 positions in Canada.
What do elementary school and kindergarten teachers do?
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers work with young children to teach basic subjects, including reading, writing and math or specialized subjects. These teachers work in both public and private elementary schools. This occupation also includes lesson planning, assigning and correcting homework and tests and evaluating progress.
Who is this a good fit for?
This is a great career for people who enjoy working with children and are passionate about teaching. Empathy and patience are also important for those working with children. You’ll need skills in communication, classroom management and technology, as well as mastery of the subjects you’re teaching.
How to become an elementary school or kindergarten teacher
To become a kindergarten or elementary school teacher, a bachelor’s degree in education is required. Additional training is typically also required, as well as a provincial certificate. In Ontario for example, you must complete a minimum three-year post-secondary degree as well as a four-semester teacher education program, and have certification from the Ontario College of Teachers. Learn more about Ontario’s teacher requirements and ensure you choose the right education to meet your goals before getting started. Consider starting with one of the following programs:
- Human Services Foundation: If you’re interested in helping people, this one-year certificate program will prepare you for multiple career options in human and community services. It’s also a great place to start if you want to become a teacher, but additional education will be required.
- Honours Bachelor of Early Childhood Leadership: This four-year honours degree program will give you a solid foundation in child development, pedagogy, curriculum development and leadership skills.
You may also want to consider another one of our degree programs to start your journey. Make sure whatever degree program you choose prepares you for your desired career before getting started.
14. Material handlers
NOC: 75101
Average annual income: $44,660*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see an 5% growth from 2023 to 2031 with an increase of over 12,979 positions in Canada.
What is a material handler?
Material handlers move, load and unload materials by hand or using equipment. This can include moving things like coal, lumber or building supplies, furniture or other products. It can also include operating equipment to load liquid or other chemical products from tank trucks or storage tanks. Often, material handlers are employed by transportation or moving companies, manufacturing companies and warehouses.
Who is this a good fit for?
Since this can be a very physically demanding occupation, you’ll likely want to be in good health. Skills you’ll need to excel in this role include attention to detail, organization, time management and teamwork. You’ll also need to be safety-conscious when dealing with potentially hazardous or heavy materials and equipment.
How to become a material handler
Some high school education might be required for this type of occupation. Physical strength is often required as well.
There are health and safety courses as well as leadership courses available that could help you propel your career.
15. Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers
NOC: 85121
Average annual income: $43,416*
Growth: This occupation is expected to see a 15% growth from 2025 to 2031 with an estimated increase of 12,826 positions in Canada.
What do landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers do?
Landscaping and grounds maintenance labourers complete the work required to construct and maintain lawns, gardens, golf courses and other outdoor spaces. They complete work like planting, spreading soil and mulch, cutting grass and pruning shrubs and trees. These labourers are employed by places like landscaping companies, golf courses or public works departments.
Who is this a good fit for?
Landscaping and grounds maintenance is a great fit for those who enjoy outdoor work and are ready to do physical and sometimes strenuous labour. If you like working with plants and are comfortable operating equipment such as a lawn mower, tractor, clippers and so on, this might be the role for you. Soft skills that will help you excel include attention to detail, communication skills, the ability to lift heavy objects and customer service.
Advance your career as a landscaping and grounds maintenance labourer
This labourer role does not require any specific education, though secondary school may be helpful. Some of these roles may also require a license to apply pesticides and chemical fertilizers. However, if you’re looking for a long-term career in landscaping and horticulture, here are some ways you can level up:
Landscape Design Technician (Co-op): This program is Ontario’s only two-year Landscape Design Technician diploma program. Beyond the skills of a landscape labourer, this program takes you into planning and designing landscapes with industry-leading software like AutoCad, to create lasting, beautiful and sustainable landscapes, from ideation to implementation.
Horticulture Technician: This two-year diploma program in horticulture focuses on the practical application of caring for plants and trees within a landscape through skills in arboriculture, plant identification and plant production. Apply these skills during two co-op work terms, at our greenhouse or the living lab that is Fanshawe’s London Campus, as well as A.M. Cuddy Garden, a botanical garden recognized by Botanic Gardens Conservation International.
For International Workers
If you’d like to immigrate to Canada and are looking for work in Canada, there are resources available to support you.
You’ve finished school. Now what?
If you’ve finished your program and are now looking for a career in your field, we may be able to help.
If you are a Fanshawe student or recent alum, you can access our Career Services which will help you prepare for the world of work through workshops, job postings, career consulting and more.
If you are a community member, you may be able to access our Employment Services at our London, Simcoe and Elgin County locations. These services are designed to help Canadian citizens and permanent residents find employment. Find out if you’re eligible for Community Employment Services.
Plus, check out our other posts on searching for the right job for you and common mistakes in job interviews!
*Citation: Fanshawe Career Coach, Powered By Lightcast, May 2025. Fanshawe Region.