A new national survey commissioned by Meridian Credit Union reveals that Canadians see a clear opportunity to strengthen support for young adults aged 18 to 29 as they prepare for today's evolving job market. The findings come as Ottawa commits $6 billion over five years to recruit, train, and hire up to 100,000 skilled trades workers by 2031.
Key Survey Findings
- 7 in 10 respondents, including 75% of those aged 25–34, say Canada may still not be doing enough to support young adults in finding careers.
- 1 in 6 respondents believe young adults do not have the skills needed to succeed in the job market.
- 65% of respondents aged 18–24 and over half (52%) of those aged 25–34 express concern about the effectiveness of current skills training programs.
The survey highlights strong public interest in more practical, outcomes-focused approaches to skills development.
Reframe: Bridging Training and Employment
Meridian's Reframe skilled trade funding program takes a different approach to traditional skills training. It combines paid, hands-on learning with wrap-around supports, including housing, transportation, food security, and mental health services, alongside personalized financial confidence coaching and post-program follow-up.
While federal data shows that only 34% of Canadians complete traditional skills retraining programs, Meridian's model delivers strong outcomes. Close to 90% of Reframe participants transition into employment, self-employment, or further career training upon completion.
To date, Meridian has invested $1.3 million to expand Reframe across Ontario, supporting community partners in helping participants build both career pathways and financial resilience. Meridian founded Reframe in 2024 with a pilot program in Barrie, Ontario. The program now operates in three communities across Ontario, including its latest expansion into Grey and Bruce Counties.
Expanding Impact Through Elephant Thoughts
Meridian recently announced a new Reframe partnership with Durham-based charity and education innovator Elephant Thoughts, bringing the program to Grey and Bruce Counties through a $200,000 investment.
“Through our partnership with Elephant Thoughts, we’re investing in local training models that connect people to real skills, real jobs, and long‑term economic opportunity,” said Sarah Saso, Vice President, ESG and Social Impact at Meridian Credit Union. She emphasized a shared focus on addressing skills gaps and expanding access to opportunity across Ontario.
