As an unsettled 2020 comes to an end, let?s look at what 2021 will have in store for our trucking and logistics workplaces.
The modernization of Canada?s Labour Code
In what our own Policy Analyst Marisha Tardif has likened to a ?legislative tsunami,? recent amendments to the Canada Labour Code include new labour standards, wage-fairness rules, and occupational health and safety requirements.
Many of these regulations took effect in September 2019 but several are yet to come. Notably, the amendments of Bill C-65 and the accompanying regulations which protect against harassment and violence in the workplace.
The Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Regulations, published in June, make a long-awaited detail official: new anti-harassment and violence provisions will take effect on January 1, 2021.
The regulations will apply to all workplaces covered under Part II of the Canada Labour Code, including many trucking and logistics employers.
NOC updates
Canada is now conducting its 10-year review of the National Occupational Classification (NOC), the federal system for categorizing job types in the country, including truck driving.
The next release includes new job-skill classifications that address concerns about how the federal government incorporates formal and informal training, education, and work experience into the NOC.
In early 2021 we will see how truck drivers are classified in the new system, and how it will affect federal programs.
Training and wage subsidies
With the events of 2020 clearly demonstrating how important this industry is, Trucking HR Canada was able to access federal funds for training and wage subsidies for jobs in trucking and logistics.
Our Career ExpressWay program has successfully supported the training and onboarding of close to 100 young people across the country, in driving positions, logistics, IT support, administration, and more. It provides up to $10,000 for driver training and up to $15,000 in wage subsidy per employee.
Our hope is that we can expand our program in 2021 to better connect our industry to Canadians of all ages looking for meaningful work in a sector with loads of career opportunities.
Diversity and inclusion
No longer buzzwords, workplace diversity and inclusion will remain a focus of Trucking HR Canada as we help employers expand the pipeline of talent into our industry.
One key initiative is our 2021 Women with Drive Leadership Summit, planned for March 10th. ?With an international flair, we look forward to learning from and virtually connecting with a global network of women who have stepped up in their respective countries in responding to the challenges of COVID-19.
Driver shortages
Whether you believe it or not, we are on track for more acute driver shortages.
That is why Trucking HR Canada is planning to bring together industry stakeholders to define the root causes of our recruitment and retention challenges, from compensation structures to the nature of long-haul trucking driving itself.
The shortage of qualified drivers is an enduring issue. But there are always new approaches and new ideas that can inform innovative and practical solutions.
Growing our Top Fleet Employers
Now in its eighth year, our Top Fleet Employers program has grown steadily.
Our Top Fleet Employers are leaders in promoting a positive image of trucking and logistics and offering great places to work. By sharing sound HR policies and practices, they set an important example as we reach out to young people, women, and other job seekers.
Each year trucking and logistics companies undergo a rigorous application process but only the best are recognized as Top Fleet Employers. Applications close January 28, and you can click here to learn more: https://truckinghr.com/top-fleet-employers/
COVID-19
Where things will go in 2021 is anyone?s guess, but we know for sure that trucking and logistics will be pivotal to ensuring all essential goods?from food to fuel, and even more importantly, vaccines?get to all Canadians.
Rest assured that Trucking HR Canada and all of our partners are here to support you in ensuring you have the skilled workforce you need to make that happen.
Cheers to 2021.