I. Sault Ste Marie

LLMP Local Labour Market Planning 2013

Marc h

Report

he Algoma Workforce Investment Committee (AWiC) would like to thank everyone who provided input and contributed to the gathering and validation of the Tinformation contained in this report. The material is drawn from a variety of sources considered to be reliable, however the Algoma Workforce Investment Committee makes no representation or warranty, express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness and does not assume any responsibility of liability.

The document may be freely quoted and reproduced without permission of the Algoma Workforce Investment Committee provided that AWiC is acknowledged as the author of the document.

The Algoma Workforce Investment Committee gratefully acknowledges the continued support of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities for this new approach to labour market planning.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING:

Jonathan Coulman Executive Director Algoma Workforce Investment Committee 68 Dennis Street, Suite 206 Sault Ste. Marie ON P6A 2W9 (705) 941.9341 A member of [email protected]

Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION ...... 4 About the Board ...... 4 Overview of the Planning Process ...... 5 2. 2013 OVERVIEW OF THE LABOUR MARKET INDICATORS ...... 6 Key Sources of Information ...... 6 Data Limitations ...... 6 I. Algoma District ...... 7 i. Population & Migration (An Aging and Declining Population) ...... 8 ii. Employment in Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) ...... 12 3. 2012-2013 COMMUNITY LABOUR MARKET DATA ...... 19 II. Central Algoma ...... 19 i. Sault Ste Marie ...... 19 III. East Algoma...... 23 i. Elliot Lake ...... 23 ii. Blind River ...... 26 IV. Superior East ...... 29 i. Dubreuilville ...... 29 ii. Wawa ...... 32 iii. White River ...... 34 4. PAST ACTIONS TAKEN ( 2012-2013)...... 37 5. ACTION PLAN (2013-2014) ...... 42 6. APPENDICES ...... 45 List of Participating Community Stakeholders ...... 45

1. INTRODUCTION About the Board

stablished in 2006 AWIC is a volunteer community-based planning committee whose members are knowledgeable about labour force development issues in the District of Algoma. AWiC is E one of twenty-five (25) Workforce Planning Boards across Ontario. Its mission is to work collaboratively with community partners to address the region‘s key labour force needs.

AWIC‘s objective is to engage communities in a local labour market research and planning process that will lead to cooperative efforts to find local solutions to local labour market issues.

Board of Directors

Dan Friyia Tracey Seabrook Shawn Heard Ted Newbery Superior East Community Futures Algoma District East Algoma Community Sault College Development Services Futures Development Corporation Administration Board Corporation

Anita Vaillancourt Dawna Kinnunen Gary Premo Karol Rains Algoma University YesYouCan Canadian Steel Trade Sault Community Employment Consulting Employment Congress Career Centre

Larry Little Linda Ryan Melanie Pilon Ralph Medaglia Community Development Corporation Employment Solutions Confederation College Essar Steel Algoma of Sault Ste. Marie & Area

Rick Thomas Russell Reid Sault Ste. Marie Regional Employment Construction Help Centre Association

Government Representatives

Judy Montague Rob Lepore Christine Kucher Ministry of Training, Colleges Ministry of Training, Colleges Ministry of Northern and Universities and Universities Development and Mines

Overview of the Planning Process

ach year, local boards undertake a challenges of the District of Algoma as a comprehensive local labour market whole and the communities within the region. E planning (LLMP) process. This process The report also lists AWIC‘s partnership engages communities in a locally-driven and strategies for the 2013-2014 year. evidence informed process to identify and respond to the key local labour market A major component of this planning process challenges and opportunities in their local is to compile, interpret and review local labour markets. labour market information. The results of this information will assist in aligning labour This Local Labour Market Planning (LLMP) opportunities with training and education report is an update to the previous LLMP of priorities. It is presumed that local March 2011-2012. This report is intended to educational and training partners and other provide the reader with an understanding of community‘s organizations will use this the local labour market changes and information in forming their strategic directions.

The timelines and activities of the Local Labour Market Planning Process (LLMP) are detailed below.

Timelines and Activities of the Local Planning Process

April - September 2012 Compile, interpreted and shared local labour LLMI Research market information.

October - November 2012 Conducted 80 employer surveys. Employer Surveys Held four (4) community consultations within the District of Algoma (Blind River, Elliot Lake, Sault October -November 2012 Ste. Marie & Wawa) to present and discuss the LLMP Community Consultations labour market trends and issues within each of the areas. March 2013 A final Local Labour Market Planning (LLMP) LLMP Report report will be completed.

2. 2013 OVERVIEW OF THE LABOUR MARKET INDICATORS

Key Sources of Information

his section of the report provides an While all data will have some sort of limitations, overview of the current labour market the data and information outlined in this T status and reports on significant changes. document is designed to lay out the groundwork Where possible, evidence based data is used, for short and long-term planning and decision however, some information is anecdotal and is making by community stakeholders in based on community perspectives captured developing a skilled and adaptable workforce. during the consultation process.

While other sources of information may have been used, the key sources used in this report include:

. Census Data Statistics Canada . Canadian Business Patterns Statistics Canada . Labour Force Survey Statistics Canada . CANSIM Statistics Canada . Facilitation Community Consultations . Employer Survey AWIC 2012 Employer Survey . Local Intelligence Local and Area news & reports

Data Limitations

t is important to recognize the limitations of used to estimate small and medium business sources of local labour market information. employment every six months (June and I The Census and accompanying National December) with an approximate five week time Household Survey are conducted every five lag for release. Employer data from the June years with the latest being undertaken in 2011. 2012 Canadian Business Patterns and past data The data is released by Statistics Canada over was used to identify more recent changes and a period of years. This report details trends in the local labour market. This data population, age and sex figures while other combine with census information provide a data such as income, occupation, education, etc. powerful base for understanding each regions will be released later in 2013. We cannot labour market. Local intelligence captures the discount older Census data in our analysis while unique characteristics and circumstances of each we wait for newer data. In many cases it is the community. Every community has sources of local only data available and combined with data and knowledgeable persons who can add anecdotal information can still be used to valuable insights about the realities of the local predict trends and challenges. labour market. However, local knowledge must be used carefully because this information is The Canadian Business Patterns (CBP) data often a combination of factual information, identifies the number of business establishments opinions and advice. Both evidence and local and number of employers by detailed industries knowledge are needed to guide planning. for different employee size ranges. This data is

I. Algoma District

ocated in North-Eastern Ontario and bordering the north shore of Lake Superior and Lake Huron, the District of Algoma has a population of 115,870 covering 48,810 square kilometres L from White River in the northwest to Spanish in the east. The district is divided into the following sub-districts: Superior East, Central and East Algoma.

Certain industries, geographic regions and demographic groups in the District of Algoma have been experiencing growth and others face challenges. For example, service industries have been growing strongly and creating jobs, while the forestry sectors are experiencing significant pressures and layoffs bringing about regional differences in labour market performance, with certain communities facing high rates of unemployment and low rates of employment growth.

White River  Dubreuilville 

 Wawa

Sault Ste. Marie  Bruce Mines Elliot Lake  Thessalon    Blind River

i. Population & Migration (An Aging and Declining Population)

n aging population, low birth rates and low overall population growth are indicators pointing to labour market shortages for the District of Algoma as more people retire and there are less people entering the workforce. As a result communities will need to tap A into under-utilized pools of labour and look at ways to increase the working population to address these shortages.

Northern Ontario comprises more than 88% of the land mass of Ontario but represents only 5.7% of the total population of the province (2011 Census). This % age represents a decrease from 6.5% from the 2006 Census.

The Ministry of Finance (Ontario) has estimated the annual rate of population growth rate at -1.4 % in 2006-2011 for the Algoma region. 1 Although populations have been tabulated, the incomplete enumeration of one or more First Nation reserves occurred in 2006/2011 and the results should be interpreted with caution. 2

TABLE 1A 2006-2011 Census Population of Communities in Algoma Geography Population 2011 Population 2006 Percent Change Algoma 115,870 117,461 -1.4% Blind River 3,549 3,780 -6.1% Dubreuilville 635 773 -17.9% Elliot Lake 11,348 11,549 -1.7% Michipicoten 2,975 3,204 -7.1% Sault Ste. Marie 75,141 74,948 0.3% Spanish 698 728 -4.4% Thessalon 1,279 1,312 -2.5% White River 607 841 -27.8% Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census of Population

From 2006 to 2011 the population of the District of Algoma decreased by the relatively small % age of -1.4% to 115,870 with the City of Sault Ste Marie actually growing by 0.3% to 75,141. In addition, several in First Nation communities in Algoma experienced higher population growth rates which are not entirely captured in census data. The largest declines in population occurred in White River (-27.8%) and the communities of Dubreuilville and Michipicoten (Wawa). The declines in these communities coincide with a downturn in the local forestry industry.

1 http://www.fin.gov.on.ca/en/economy/demographics/census/cenhi11-1.html 2 Source: Statistic Canada 8

An Aging Population According to the 2011 Census, the median age of Ontario's population increased by 1.4 years between 2006 and 2011, from 39.0 years to 40.4 years. Median age is the point where exactly half the population is older and the other half is younger.3

Table 1B shows that the median age of the population in Algoma is considerably older than that of Canada and Ontario. It should be noted, however, that it is similar to other areas in Northern Ontario.

TABLE 1B Median Age of Algoma Compared to Ontario & Canada Median Age 2006 2011

Canada 39.5 40.6 Ontario 39.0 40.4 Algoma 45.0 47.2 Source: Statistics Canada, Focus on Geography Series, 2011Census

Elliot Lake: Oldest Census Agglomeration in Ontario Among smaller population centres in Ontario called Census Agglomerations (CAs), Elliot Lake had by far the highest share of seniors, at over 35 % and a median age of 57.1. Dubreuilville indicated the youngest median age for that of Algoma at 36.8 years with a slight increase from 2006 at 35.5 years old.

TABLE 1C Median Age of Communities in Algoma 2006-2011 Median Age Community 2006 2011 Blind River 46.1 48.7

Dubreuilville 35.4 36.8 Elliot Lake 54.8 57.1 Sault Ste. Marie 43.9 45.6 Wawa 40.6 44.1 White River 42.4 46.9 Source: Statistics Canada, Focus on Geography Series, 2011 Census

3 Source: Globe and Mail 9

Population Distribution by Age From a labour market standpoint it is important to look at the makeup of the overall population by age ranges. This gives an indication of the age of the current workforce and the potential size of the future workforce (the number of younger people in the region).

TABLE 1D Population Distribution by five-year age groups and sex in Algoma 2011 12000 10000 8000 6000 4000 Female 2000 Male 0

Source: Statistics Canada, Focus on Geography Series, 2011 Census

As Table 1D clearly demonstrates the aging nature of the workforce in Algoma as those from ages 45 to 64 years outnumber those from 20 to 44 years of age. The impact of the population distribution will be felt as people begin to retire and there will be less people available to replace them. Also of concern will be the knowledge that is lost as those in the older age ranges are more likely to be in supervisory and management positions.

There is an increase in population for those in the 15 to 24 years of age, which a promising sign as these people represent the future workforce. As we will see in the next section however, this portion of the population experiences a high out-migration from the district. It will be important to look at ways to retain this portion of the population as they migrate out of the region for post-secondary school.

Table 1D also gives a perspective of the gender makeup of the population. The split between male and female is essentially equal across all age ranges. However it is important to note that female participation rates in the workforce are generally lower than that of males, so strategies for increasing female participation rates will become even more important in the coming years.

Population Migration Migration is often a good indicator how a local labour market is doing. High in-migration suggests greater employment opportunities, while high out-migration suggests limited work opportunities, forcing residents to seek out of region employment. Table 1E shows net-migration for Algoma by age category.

The District of Algoma, displays a net increase of migrants in 0-17 and 45-64 which could reflect families moving back to the region who have gained employment.

TABLE 1E Net-Migration for Algoma by Age Group 2006-2011 Age In-migrants Out-migrants Net-migrants Group 0-17 3,114 2,766 348 18-24 1,671 2,831 -1,160 25-44 4,700 5,229 -529 45-64 3,179 2,607 572 65+ 1,296 1,677 -381 Total 13,960 15,110 -1,150 Source: Statistics Canada, Taxfiler

Table 1 E shows a significant loss in the 18-24 cohort. Attracting these individuals back to the region is an important aspect of ongoing workforce development. This indicates a limited supply of younger workers and a number of youth seeking education/employment outside the area. Individuals in this age cohort are viewed at their prime career years and arguably the most important contributors to the local labour force as well as the vitality of the local economy.

If the extent of the predicted shortage of labour across Canada comes to fruition, then many provinces and communities will be challenging each other for migrants within the country. A 2006 census research paper sponsored by AWIC, summarized the issue as follows:

A growing concern with the intense concentration of immigrants in the gateway cities of Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal is coupled with a desire for the regionalization of immigration and the opportunity for smaller centres to benefit from Canada's immigration vision. Canada’s rural and northern communities have yet to benefit from the country’s current influx of immigrants and little is known about the challenges immigrants encounter in rural and northern communities and about their potential contributions in these communities.4

This statement still holds true today and continued efforts need to be focused on local international immigration that work alongside with migration strategies. This includes working with local organizations such New to the Sault and the Sault Ste. Marie Local Immigration Partnership.

Table 1F compares Net Migrations across Northern Ontario.

TABLE 1F Net Migration in Northern Ontario Communities 2006-2011 0-17 18-24 25-44 45-64 65+ Total Nipissing 346 -216 -178 148 -125 -25 Greater Sudbury 495 160 186 -811 -442 -412 Timiskaming 233 -681 -109 200 -202 -559 Algoma 348 -1,160 -529 572 -381 -1,150 Thunder Bay 117 -852 -1,009 -589 69 -2,264 Cochrane -225 -1,580 -800 -783 -231 -3,619 Source: Statistics Canada, Taxfiler

4 Migration and Mobility Trends in Northern Ontario 2001-2006, Chris Southcott 11

ii. Employment in Small and Medium Enterprises (SME)

mployment created by Small and Medium sized Enterprises make up much of the collective employment in the Algoma District, therefore it is important to focus on these employers who can E profit from labour market initiatives.

Canadian Business Patterns (CBP) is derived from Statistics Canada by Canada Revenue Agency and is based on the employee payroll remittances submitted by companies in behalf of the employees. CBP data is used to identify the concentration of industries within the economy of our region as compared to Ontario; demonstrate the increase or decrease in the number of business establishments operating in each industry between June 2011 and June 2012; and to estimate employment for business establishments employing less than 100 people.

TABLE 2A — Top 5 Sectors based on Number of Employees in Small and Medium Sized Businesses

NAICS Small / Medium Total % Retail Trade 5,485 19%

Accommodation and Food Services 4,083 14%

Construction 3,468 12% Health Care & Social Assistance 2,788 9%

Other Services 2,001 7%

Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns – June 2012

Table 2A shows us that in Algoma the top five sectors of employment in SME‘s account for more than 60% of all jobs. As you would expect for this size of businesses (< 100 employees) - retail stores, restaurants and construction companies employ the most people.

By drilling down a little further we can get more detail on the types of businesses in each of the sectors and their growth over the past year.

Table 2B identifies Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) by their 3 Digit NAICS code - ranked by number of workers employed as of June 2012.

Table 2 B—Employment Growth for the top 15 Small and Medium Sized Employers (Ranked by Total Employed) Total Total Growth/ Industry Employed in Employed in Decline (%) 2011 2012 722 Food Services and Drinking Places 3,125 3,255 4.15% 238 Specialty Trade Contractors 1,955 2,258 15.47% 541 Professional, Scientific and Technical Services 1,472 1,479 0.45% 621 Ambulatory Health Care Services 1,254 1,296 3.36% 522 Credit Intermediation and Related Activities 1,237 1,166 -5.77% 445 Food and Beverage Stores 1,205 1,118 -7.24% 813 Religious, Grant-Making, Civic, and Professional 1,073 1,012 -5.72% and Similar Organizations 561 Administrative and Support Services 1,087 1,003 -7.69% 236 Construction of Buildings 840 868 3.34% 531 Real Estate 849 860 1.31% 623 -Nursing and Residential Care Facilities 775 845 9.09% 721 Accommodation Services 843 828 -1.72% 713 Amusement, Gambling and Recreation Industries 631 682 8.06% 441 Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers 694 669 -3.63% 452 General Merchandise Stores 478 587 22.88% Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns – June 2012

As is evident, the top 3 SME industries by employment (largest to smallest) are Food Services and Drinking Places with 3,255 employees, Specialty Trade Contractors with 2,258 employees and a growth rate of 15.47%, and Professional, Scientific and Technical Services at 1,479 employees. These sectors are expected to grow due to economic priorities and with continued government incentives in the skilled trades.

In terms of growth, General Merchandise Stores surpassed 2011 employment levels with a 22.88 % growth rate from 2011 to 2012. Nursing and Residential Car Facilities are showing a growth rate of 9.09 % from 2011 to 2012 with employments levels on a steady rise with the aging population of the Algoma District.

Table 2 C identifies the 10 sectors by 3 digit codes with the most growth based on the number of new jobs and the 10 sectors with the greatest number of jobs lost.

Table 2 C—Growth/Decline in Employment in Small and Medium Business (Ranked by Absolute Change in number of Jobs) Absolute PercentChange NAICS 2011 2012 Change (%) Growth 238 - Specialty Trade Contractors 1,955 2,258 302 15.47 722 - Food Services and Drinking Places 3,125 3,255 130 4.17 413 - Food, Beverage and Tobacco Wholesaler-Dist. 62 141 78 126.59 623 - Nursing and Residential Care Facilities 775 845 71 9.11 488 - Support Activities for Transportation 255 321 67 26.13 442 - Furniture and Home Furnishings Stores 209 263 54 25.84 713 - Amusement, Gambling and Recreation Ind. 631 682 51 8.06 332 - Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing 396 442 46 11.67 621 - Ambulatory Health Care Services 1,254 1,296 42 3.35 523 - Securities, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial 259 292 33 12.76 Investment and Related Activities Loss 511 - Publishing Industries (except Internet) 72 51 -21 -28.88 441 - Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers 694 669 -25 -3.56 484 - Truck Transportation 498 468 -30 -5.94 524 - Insurance Carriers and Related Activities 301 268 -33 -11.02 448 - Clothing and Clothing Accessories Stores 552 517 -35 -6.38 811 - Repair and Maintenance 588 536 -52 -8.77 813 - Religious, Grant-Making, Civic, and Professional and 1,073 1,012 -61 -5.72 Similar Organizations 485 - Transit and Ground Passenger Transport. 312 249 -63 -20.20 522 - Credit Intermediation and Related Activities 1,237 1,166 -72 -5.80 221 – Utilities* 217 119 -98 -45.22 Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns, June 2012

The sectors with the highest estimated growth rates in number of employees are Food, Beverage and Tobacco Wholesalers with 126.59 % growth and Support Activities for Transportation at 26.13 % growth.

Table 2 B indicates the largest losses in number of employees by percent change are Utilities down -45.22 % and Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation down -20.20 %.

Why does Utilities rank as the Industry with the Greatest Loss of SME Jobs? To further explain the decline in the Utilities sector of -45 % in table 2 D (below) is due to change in the size of businesses in the utilities sector. Table 2 C only looks at small and medium sized businesses (under 100 employees). 2012 employment estimates are lower as there are no longer 2 businesses in the 50 to 99 employee size range, but there are 2 businesses in the 20 to 49 range.

Also, you can see that there was an increase of 1 employer with 100 to 199 employees but that would not be included in the estimate as it is no longer a small or medium sized business. As a result, it looks like employment in the sector has decreased, when it may have increased overall, but decreased in small and medium sized businesses.

Table 2 D—Number of Employers by Employee Size Range –Algoma District Utilities June 2011 to June 2012 NAICS 0 1 - 4 5 - 9 10 - 19 20 - 49 50 - 99 100-199 200-499 500 Total 221 - Utilities + 2012 6 1 4 2 2 0 3 0 0 18 2011 5 1 4 3 0 2 2 0 0 17 Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns

Table 2 E examines number of all employers by employee size ranges in the District of Algoma between June 2011 and June 2012. A decrease in the number of business establishment in any category of employee size range does not necessarily mean that the business is no longer operating. It may imply that an enterprise has increased or decreased the number of employees and appears in a different employee size range.

Table 2 E —Number of Employers by Employee Size Range- Algoma District June 2011 to June 2012 Number of Number of Percent Employee Size Absolute Ontario Percent Employers Employers Change Range Change Change (%) 2011 2012 (%) 0 2,160 2,141 -19 -0.88 -1.75 1 - 4 1,485 1,431 -54 -3.64 0.60 5 - 9 803 761 -42 -5.23 -0.94 10 - 19 463 522 59 12.74 3.31 20-49 278 285 7 2.52 2.80 50-99 79 79 0 0.00 7.66 100-199 38 43 5 13.16 6.02 200-499 24 22 -2 -8.33 10.68 500+ 7 8 1 14.29 2.40 Total 5,337 5,292 -45 -0.84 -0.49 Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns

Employers between 1- 4 employee size ranges decreased 54 by employers or -3.64 % and employers with 5-9 employees decreased by 42 employers or -5.23 %. This is significant when compared to a .60 % increase and a minor -.94 % decrease for Ontario. This is an important indicator to monitor as this can be a gauge of economic renewal as a new generation of business establishments are developed.

Employers between 10- 19 increased by 12.74 % with an absolute change of 59 employers which is more significant than that of Ontario with an increase of 3.31 %. This could be a reflection of businesses growing and employing more than 1-9 employees.

Table 2 E also indicates employers employing 200-499 individuals experienced a -8.33 % growth or an absolute decrease of -2 compared to Ontario with a 10.68 % increase in which case an established business could have caused the increased in the 100-199 and 500+ employee size ranges by growing or shrinking in size.

With the largest growth in the 500 + employee size of 14.29 % only an absolute growth of 1 employer suggest that our region largely depends on larger employers to supply work for employees compared to that of Ontario with a 2.40 % change.

Central to local labour market planning is an understanding of the characteristics of area employers. The number of employers, the size of employers and changes in the number and size of employers over time affect employment levels and employment opportunities within a local labour market.

Table 2 F identifies the top five industries that have the greatest number of employers.

Table 2 F —Number of Employers by Employee Size Range and 3-Digit Industry- Algoma District June 2012 1 - 5 - 10 - 20 - 50 - 100- 200- 500 NAICS 0 Total % 4 9 19 49 99 199 499 +

531 - Real Estate 345 75 10 7 5 1 0 0 0 443 8.37

541 - Professional, Scientific and 209 124 41 24 11 2 0 0 0 411 7.77 Technical Services 238 - Specialty Trade 137 107 49 27 21 9 3 0 0 353 6.67 Contractors 621 - Ambulatory 59 152 43 21 8 2 1 2 0 288 5.44 Health Care Services 722 - Food Services 48 43 58 64 39 10 2 0 0 264 4.99 and Drinking Places Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns

Table 2 G examines the number of business establishments within industries in Algoma compared to the province. The term ―distribution‖ refers to the number of business establishments operating in a sector as a percentage of the total number of business operating in the region. This percentage is then compared to industry activity at the provincial level to provide an indicator of the importance of that industry locally compared to the rest of Ontario and the diversity of the local economy in general.

Table 2 G—Distribution of Total Employers by 3-Digit Industry- Algoma District June 2012 NAICS Algoma Total Distribution % Ontario Total Distribution % Total 5,292 100.00 888,980 100.00 531 - Real Estate 443 8.37 87,108 9.80 541 - Professional, Scientific and Technical 411 7.77 133,184 14.98 Services 238 - Specialty Trade Contractors 353 6.67 59,489 6.69 621 - Ambulatory Health Care Services 288 5.44 37,561 4.23 722 - Food Services and Drinking Places 264 4.99 30,514 3.43 813 - Religious, Grant-Making, Civic, and 206 3.89 20,981 2.36 Professional and Similar Organizations 236 - Construction of Buildings 184 3.48 31,612 3.56 811 - Repair and Maintenance 180 3.40 22,150 2.49 561 - Administrative and Support Services 179 3.38 37,409 4.21 523 - Securities, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial Investment and Related 155 2.93 37,993 4.27 Activities Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns

Table 2 G confirms that in Algoma the industry that has the greatest difference in the portion of employers compared to that of Ontario is Professional, Scientific and Technical Services with a 7.21% difference. This subsector comprises establishments primarily engaged in activities in which human capital is the major input such law, accounting, engineering and advertising firms.

The number of total employers in the Algoma District fell from 5,337 in 2011 to 5,292 in 2012 with an absolute change of -45 employers. Table 2 H shows us which sectors had the most growth and decline by number of employers (businesses).

Table 2 H—Change in the Total Number of Employers in Algoma District June 2011 to June 2012 Total Total Absolute Percent NAICS Employers Employers Change Change (%) 2011 2012 Growth 238 - Specialty Trade Contractors 332 353 21 6.33 621 - Ambulatory Health Care Services 272 288 16 5.88 112 - Animal Production 57 67 10 17.54 713 - Amusement, Gambling and Recreation 79 85 6 7.59 Industries 115 - Support Activities for Agriculture and Forestry 25 30 5 20.00 Decline 484 - Truck Transportation 151 133 -18 -11.92 113 - Forestry and Logging 132 115 -17 -12.88 722 - Food Services and Drinking Places 279 264 -15 -5.38 448 - Clothing and Clothing Accessories Stores 103 93 -10 -9.71 453 - Miscellaneous Store Retailers 89 80 -9 -10.11 Source: Derived from Statistics Canada, Canadian Business Patterns

The industry with the most new businesses was Speciality Trade Contractors which saw an increase of 6.67 % or an absolute change of 21 employers from 2011 to 2012. This is a reflection of a healthy housing market, major construction projects such as a new PUC office in Sault Ste. Marie and new mall in Elliot Lake, as well as existing shops expanding into new business lines such as SIS.

Of interest is the increase in Animal Production. This is a reflection of new farms in the Sylvan valley in East Algoma.

The decline of the number of employers in truck transportation can be attributed to the increase in gas prices for transportation of goods. The Forestry and Logging economy is lagging and almost nonexistence due to the high Canadian dollar. The closure of St Mary‘s Paper in Sault Ste. Marie and Dubreuil Forest Products are examples of these companies affected by the slowdown of the forest industry.

3. 2012-2013 COMMUNITY LABOUR MARKET DATA

II. Central Algoma i. Sault Ste Marie

he largest urban centre in the Algoma District is Sault Ste. Marie and is the third largest city in Northern Ontario. With a population of an estimated 75,141 residents in 2011, Sault Ste. Marie is T Ontario‘s 19th largest city.

POPULATION

Table 3 A - Population Trends of Sault Ste. Marie 2001 2006 2011 Sault Ste. Marie 74,566 74,948 75,141 Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census of Population

Table 3 B - Census Sub-divisions Population change from 2006 to 2011 Central Algoma Census subdivision (CSD) Name Population 2006 2011 % change

Sault Ste. Marie 74,948 75,141 0.3 Macdonald, Meredith and Aberdeen Additional 1,550 1,464 -5.5 Garden River 985 1,107 12.4 Laird 1,078 1,057 -1.9 Prince 971 1,031 6.2 Rankin Location 566 N/A N/A Source: Statistics Canada. 2012. Focus on Geography Series, 2011 Census.

In 2011, there were a total of 31 Indian reserves and Indian settlements that were 'incompletely enumerated such as the Rankin Reserve. For these reserves or settlements, enumeration was either not permitted or was interrupted before it could be completed, or enumeration was not possible.

Table 3 E Sault Ste. Marie – Age distribution Age groups Both sexes Males Females 0 to 14 14.40% 15.40% 13.40% 15 to 64 66.30% 66.80% 65.80% 65 and over 19.30% 17.70% 20.80% Source: Statistics Canada. 2012. Focus on Geography Series, 2011 Census.

In 2011, the % age of the population aged 65 and over in Sault Ste. Marie was 19.3%, compared with a national % age of 14.8%. The % age of the working age population (15 to 64) was 66.3% and the % age of children aged 0 to 14 was 14.4%. In comparison, the national % ages were 68.5% for the population aged 15 to 64 and 16.7% for the population aged 0 to 14.

Table 3 C Sault Ste. Marie Change in Total Population by Age 2006-2011 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0

2011 Total 75,140 2006 Total 74,945

Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census

Table 3 D Sault Ste. Marie Population Distribution by five-year age groups and sex

7,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

2011 Male 36,115 2011 Female 39,030

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006-2011 Census

LABOUR FORCE

Estimates are based on 2006 census population counts and persons of working age (15 and above). These figures are estimates in thousands, rounded to the nearest hundred. The participation rate is the number of labour force participants expressed as a % age of the population 15 years of age and over. The employment rate (formerly the employment/population ratio) is the number of persons employed expressed as a percentage of the population 15 years of age and over.

Table 3 F Labour Force survey estimates based on 2006 Census boundaries Sault Ste. Marie 2008-2012 Labour force characteristics 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Population (x 1,000) 69.5 69.4 69.3 69.2 68.8 Labour force (x 1,000) 42.5 40.1 42.2 40.3 37.1 Employment (x 1,000) 40.1 36.3 38.0 36.8 34.3 Unemployment (x 1,000) 2.4 3.8 4.2 3.6 2.8 Not in labour force (x 1,000) 27.0 29.3 27.2 28.9 31.6 Unemployment rate (%) 5.6 9.5 10.0 8.9 7.5 Participation rate (%) 61.2 57.8 60.9 58.2 53.9 Employment rate (%) 57.7 52.3 54.8 53.2 49.9 Source: Statistics Canada. Table 282-0115, CANSIM

The unemployment rate in Sault Ste. Marie dropped from 8.9% in 2011 to 7.5% in 2012. This should be a good sign, but if you include the relatively low and declining participation rate, the drop in the unemployment rate is more likely due to people leaving the workforce and no longer looking for work. The participation rate of 53.9% is significantly lower than the provincial rate of 61%.

EMPLOYERS

Employment created by Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SME) often make up much of the collective employment in the region, therefore it is importance to focus on these employers who can profit from labour market initiatives. Employers with ―0‖ employees are considered to be owner operated businesses which do not have any payroll employees or are contracted workers (e.g. Real Estate Agents).

Table 3 G shows the top 5 economic sectors in Sault Ste. Marie based on the number of businesses in each sector.

Table 3 G Top 5 Sectors by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 100-199 200-499 500 + Total 3411 1339 871 522 361 199 57 36 18 8 Retail trade 481 102 116 139 70 34 9 9 2 0 Construction 378 144 104 56 33 26 12 3 0 0 Real estate and rental and leasing 364 275 60 16 8 4 1 0 0 0 Other services (except public administration) 357 109 146 64 27 7 2 2 0 0 Professional, scientific and technical services 313 157 90 36 21 7 2 0 0 0 Source: Derived from Business Register, Statistics Canada, June 2012

By looking at the same data, but in more detail, we can see the types of business that operate within the sectors. Table 3 H indicates the different size ranges and the number of employers within those industries sectors.

Table 3 H Top 10 Industries by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20 -49 50-99 100-199 200-499 500 +

5311 - Lessors of Real Estate 215 177 29 4 3 2 0 0 0 0 5239 - Other Financial 119 98 14 3 1 2 0 1 0 0 Investment Activities 5511 - Management of 105 90 8 5 1 1 0 0 0 0 Companies and Enterprises 6211 - Offices of Physicians 95 15 64 13 3 0 0 0 0 0 2361 - Residential Construction 90 34 31 16 5 3 1 0 0 0 2382 - Building Equipment 78 22 22 10 9 8 5 2 0 0 Contractors 8111 - Automotive Repair and 78 18 38 18 4 0 0 0 0 0 Maintenance 8121 - Personal Care Services 77 38 30 7 1 1 0 0 0 0 2383 - Building Finishing 76 37 24 8 4 1 1 1 0 0 Contractors 7222 - Limited-Service Eating 73 14 14 10 14 14 6 1 0 0 Places Source: Derived from Business Register Division, Statistics Canada, June 2012

Real Estate activity supports many SME businesses as the housing market continues to improve in the area and continued low interest rates indicates growth. This trend should continue according to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC):

Ontario sales will moderate in 2012 before rising in 2013 to levels supported by underlying fundamentals. Ontario resale prices grew at an above inflationary rate early in 2011. While the balance between demand and supply remained constant, strong price growth was a result of increasing higher end home sales in more expensive markets. 5

The sectors that support Sault Ste. Marie‘s largest employers are listed in Table 3 I. Call centres (classified as Business Support Services); Education and Health Care services make up most of the largest employers in Sault Ste. Marie.

Table 3 I Top Industries with Greater than 200 Employees 4-Digit NAICS 200+ Business Support Services 4 Elementary and Secondary Schools 2 Nursing Care Facilities 2 Out-Patient Care Centres 2 Universities 2 Other Local, Municipal and Regional Public Administration 1 Iron and Steel Mills and Ferro-Alloy Manufacturing 1 Deep Sea, Coastal and Great Lakes Water Transportation 1 Source: Derived from Business Register Division, Statistics Canada, June 2012

5 http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/odpub/esub/65434/65434_2012_Q01.pdf

III. East Algoma

ast Algoma is comprised of many smaller towns and its population is dominated by the second largest city in the District of Algoma, Elliot Lake. East Algoma is also home to the four towns of E Blind River, Thessalon, Bruce Mines and Spanish. The remaining population is a combination of townships and hamlets throughout the area. i. Elliot Lake

POPULATION

In 2011, the population of Elliot Lake census agglomeration (CA) was 11,348, representing a percentage change of -1.7% from 2006.

Table 4 A Population Trends of Elliot Lake 2001 2006 2011

Elliot Lake 11,956.00 11,549.00 11,348.00 Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census of population

In 2011, the percentage of the population aged 65 and over in Elliot Lake was 35.1%, compared with a national percentage of 14.8%. The percentage of the working age population (15 to 64) was 54.8% and the percentage of children aged 0 to 14 was 10.2%. In comparison, the national percentages were 68.5% for the population aged 15 to 64 and 16.7% for the population aged 0 to 14.

Table 4 B Elliot Lake- Age Distributions Age groups Both sexes Males Females 0 to 14 10.2% 10.8% 9.5% 15 to 64 54.8% 54.2% 55.3% 65 and over 35.1% 35.0% 35.2%

Source: Statistics Canada, 2012. Focus on Geography Series, 2011 Census.

Elliot Lake‘s aging population is also clearly visible when looking at population by age ranges. With a median age of 57 years old, most of the population is over the age of 50. Succession planning is critical in Elliot Lake as a large portion of the workforce is at or approaching retirement age. These people and skills will need to be effectively replaced in order to maintain the local economy and services in the city.

Table 4 C Elliot Lake Change in Total Population by Age 2006-2011 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0

2011 11,350 2006 11,550

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006-2011 Census

Similar to Algoma as a whole, the ratio of females to males is slightly higher in all age ranges. As we look to address gaps in the workforce due to aging, encouraging woman to take ‗non-traditional‘ roles could help in some sectors (e.g. skilled trades).

Table 4 D Elliot Lake Population Distribution by Five-Year Age Groups and Sex 2011

2011 Male 5,400 2011 Female 5,950

1400

1200 1000

800

600 400

200 0

Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census

EMPLOYERS

The sector with the largest number of employers in Elliot Lake is Other Services. This sector is comprised of establishments not classified to any other sector, and those providing personal care services from their home. Given the aging population is Elliot Lake, it is not surprising that Personal Care and Healthcare employers rank among the Top 5 sectors by number of employers.

Table 4 E Elliot Lake Top 5 Sectors by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges 100- 200- 500 Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 199 499 + Total 420 139 148 64 38 21 7 2 1 0 Other Services (except public 67 19 35 10 3 0 0 0 0 0 administration) Retail Trade 66 13 26 12 10 2 3 0 0 0 Construction 45 18 18 6 3 0 0 0 0 0 Real Estate and Rental and Leasing 40 27 9 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 Healthcare and Social Assistance 34 5 13 3 4 6 2 0 1 0 Source: Derived from Business Register Division, Statistics Canada

By looking at the same data, but in more detail, we can see the types of businesses that operate within the sectors. Table 4 F indicates the different size ranges and the number of employers within those industries sectors. Table 4 F Elliot Lake Top 10 Industries by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges 100 200 10- 20- 50- 500 Total 0 1-4 5-9 - - 19 49 99 + 199 499 Total 420 139 148 64 38 21 7 2 1 0 531 - Real Estate 36 24 9 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 541 - Professional, Scientific and 29 13 11 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 Technical Services 238 - Specialty Trade Contractors 28 11 12 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 813 - Religious, Grant-Making, Civic, and Professional and Similar 28 7 13 5 3 0 0 0 0 0 Organizations 621 - Ambulatory Health Care 23 3 12 2 3 2 1 0 0 0 Services 722 - Food Services and Drinking 21 1 4 8 5 2 1 0 0 0 Places 561 - Administrative and Support 18 8 5 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 Services 812 - Personal and Laundry 16 6 8 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 Services 236 - Construction of Buildings 15 6 5 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 811 - Repair and Maintenance 15 6 6 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 Source: Derived from Business Register Division, Statistics Canada

The single largest employer in Elliot Lake is St. Joseph‘s General Hospital with more than 200 employees. Other large employers include the school boards, although for a Stats Canada perspective these jobs are attributed to the city where the head offices are located – Sault Ste. Marie. 25

ii. Blind River

POPULATION

lind River‘s population decreased between 2006 and 2011 by -6.1 % , falling to 3,549 in 2011 from 3,780 in 2006. B

Table 5 A Population Trends of Blind River 2001 2006 2011 Blind River 3,969 3,780 3,549 Source: Statistics Canada, Census Profile. 2006 2011 Census

When we look at the Population by Age, we can see that most of the loss in population can be attributed to younger age ranges and those between 40 to 49 years old. The exception is the significant increase in 25 to 29 year olds. This could be an indication of people returning to Blind River after completing university or college outside of the area.

Table 5 B Blind River Change in Total Population by Age 2006-2011 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

2011 3,545 2006 3,780

Source: Statistic Canada, 2006-2011 Census Profiles.

Table 5 C Blind River Population Distribution by Five-Year Age Groups and Sex

Male 1,720 Female 1,830

400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

Source: Statistics Canada. 2006-2011 Community Profile

EMPLOYERS

Blind River is home to a large uranium refinery operated by the Cameco Corporation. Along with Cameco, the largest employers in the area are Blind River District Health Centre and the Serpent River First Nation. Table 5 D Blind River Top 5 Sectors by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 100-199 200-499 500 + Total 245 98 81 32 15 14 3 2 0 0 Retail Trade 46 14 18 5 5 4 0 0 0 0 Construction 32 15 9 6 0 2 0 0 0 0 Accommodation and Food 26 8 5 7 4 2 0 0 0 0 Services Healthcare and Social 22 3 10 4 2 2 0 1 0 0 Assistance Other Services (except 22 6 14 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 public administration) Source: Derived from Business Register, Statistics Canada, June 2012

Table 5 E Blind River Top 10 Industries by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges

Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 100-199 200-499 500 +

Total 245 98 81 32 15 14 3 2 0 0 238 - Specialty Trade 22 9 8 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 Contractors 531 - Real Estate 21 18 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 722 - Food Services and 18 5 3 6 2 2 0 0 0 0 Drinking Places 621 - Ambulatory Health 14 3 8 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 Care Services 445 - Food and Beverage 11 3 4 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 Stores 541 - Professional, Scientific and Technical 11 8 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Services 441 - Motor Vehicle and 9 1 4 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 Parts Dealers 811 - Repair and 9 3 4 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 Maintenance 523 - Securities, Commodity Contracts, and 8 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Other Financial Investment and Related Activities Source: Derived from Business Register, Statistics Canada, June 2012

The sectors with the largest individual employers (> than 50 employees) in Blind River are:

6221 - General Medical and Surgical Hospitals 9141 - Aboriginal Public Administration 3314 - Non-Ferrous Metal (except Aluminum) Production and Processing 4812 - Non-Scheduled Air Transportation 9139 - Other Local, Municipal and Regional Public Administration

IV. Superior East

he Superior East region includes the communities if Dubreuilville, Wawa, White River and all points in between. The region is situated along the North-Eastern shore of Lake Superior. The total T population of the Northern region of the Algoma District is a little over 4,000 people and the main sectors in the region are Accommodation and Food Services, Retail Trade, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting. The largest individual employers in the region are gold mines, which also support a wide range of support and service businesses in the area. i. Dubreuilville

The town of Dubreuilville is situated between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder bay, Ontario. This small, northern community is mainly Francophone (approx. 95%). Dubreuilville has been dependant on a single employer in the forestry industry since its inception in 1961 and is facing numerous challenges in the future development of its economy. The local economy could turn around however as gold mining could drive economic develop in the area. Prodigy/Argonaut Gold are in the advanced stages of developing a local mine and posed to begin extraction.

POPULATION

The decline of Dubreuilville‘s population can be primarily attributed to the closure of Dubreuil Forest Products which was the area‘s main employer for 50 years. The collapse of the regional forest industry has idled this mill, as well as others, leaving hundreds without work. This region experienced considered population losses when compared to the other regions in the District.

Table 6 A Population Trends of Dubreuilville 2001 2006 2011

Dubreuilville 967 773 635 Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census of Population

As people leave the region to find work, the median age remains low compared to regional and national numbers.

Table 6 B Dubreuilville Age Distribution

Age Groups Total % 0 to 14 140 21.90% 15 to 64 450 70.30% 65 and over 50 7.80% Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census Profiles

Table 6 D highlights the relatively drastic drops across all of the primary labour force age ranges.

Table 6 C Dubreuilville Change in Total population by Age 2006-2011 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

2011 635 2006 770

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006- 2011 Census Profiles

Table 6 D Dubreuilville Population Distribution by Five-Year Age Groups and Sex

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

2011 Male 340 2011 Female 295

Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census Profiles

EMPLOYERS

Traditionally, Superior East has been classified as a resource based region, with each community relying on one or two major employers that employ the majority of the residents. Mining and Forestry have served as the primary industries in this region since its inception, although, the recent decline in resource based industries has negatively impacted the region as a whole.

Table 6 E Top 5 Sectors by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges

Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 100-199 200-499 500 + Total 26 11 5 4 1 4 0 1 0 0 Accommodation and Food 5 1 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 Services Agriculture, Forestry, 5 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Fishing and Hunting Management of 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Companies and Enterprises Other Services (except 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 public administration) Retail Trade 2 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Source: Derived from Business Register, Statistics Canada, June 2012

The sectors with the largest individual employers (> than 20 employees) in Dubreuilville are:

2122 - Metal Ore Mining 4529 - Other General Merchandise Stores 4842 - Specialized Freight Trucking 6111 - Elementary and Secondary Schools 9139 - Other Local, Municipal and Regional Public Administration

ii. Wawa

POPULATION

Wawa is a smaller community situated on the Trans-Canada highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay, Ontario. . Formerly known as the township of Michipicoten, the township was officially renamed for its largest and best-known community in 2007.

The township also includes the smaller communities of Michipicoten and Michipicoten River, which are small port settlements on the shore of Lake Superior.

Table 7 A Population Trends of Wawa 2001 2006 2011 Wawa 3,668 3,204 2,975 Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census

Table 7 B Sault Ste. Marie- Age Distribution Age Groups Total % 0 to 14 490 16.4% 15 to 64 2015 67.5% 65 and over 480 16.1% Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census

Table 7 C Change in Total Population by Age 2006-2011 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

2011 2,975 2006 3,205

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006-2011 Census

Table 7 D Wawa Population Distribution by Five-Year age Groups and Sex 2011

2011 Male 1,485 2011 Female 1,490

300 250 200 150 100 50 0

Source: Statistics Canada, 2011 Census

EMPLOYERS

As many of the other Northern Ontario communities, Wawa‘s history is steeped in mining, forestry, and the fur trade. Although mining attempts began as early as the late 1660s, it wasn't until 1896 that gold was discovered on nearby Wawa Lake, leading to a rush to the area. The population grew from only a handful of people to approximately a thousand.

Mining is still the major employer in the area, the largest operation being Wesdome Gold Mines. With a workforce of 190 employees, plus about 30 contractors, the operation draws people on a rotational basis from Wawa, Elliot Lake, Timmins, Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay.

The collapse of the forestry industry in the first decade of the 2000s not only impacted Wawa, but the neighbouring communities of Dubreuilville and White River. Wawa, the area's largest settlement, has consequently faced difficulties in attracting new industry to the community and region.

Table 7 E Top 5 Sectors by Number of Employers Est. Number % of NAICS of Employers Employers 72 Accommodation and food services 67 20% 44-45 Retail trade 38 12% 81 Other services (except public administration) 33 10% 62 Health care and social assistance 30 9% 71 Arts, entertainment and recreation 29 9% Source:61 WawaEducational Business Directory, services June 2012 22 7% *based on estimated numbers. 23 Construction 20 6% 91 Public administration 19 6% 54 Professional, scientific and technical services 15 5% 48-49 Transportation and warehousing 15 5% 41 Wholesale trade 8 2% 51 Information and cultural industries 8 2%33 56 Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services 7 2% 52 Finance and insurance 5 2% 11 Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting 4 1% 21 Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction 3 1% 53 Real estate and rental and leasing 3 1% 22 Utilities 2 1% 31-33 Manufacturing 1 0% 55 Management of companies and enterprises 0 0% 329 100%

iii. White River

POPULATION

Strategically located between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay, Ontario on the TransCanada Highway White River is a small but progressive community actively pursuing new opportunities for economic and population growth.

The population of White River decreased substantially by 27.8 % falling to 607 in 2011 from 841 in 2006.

Table 8 A Population Trends of White River 2001 2006 2011 White River 993 841 607 Source: Statistics Canada, 2001-2011 Census

Table 8 B White River Age Distribution

Age Groups Total % 0 to 14 80 13.0% 15 to 64 455 74.0% 65 and over 80 13.0% Source: Statistics Canada, 2006-2011 Census

Table 8 C Change in Total Population by Age 2006-2011 120 100 80 60 40 20 0

2011 610 2006 840

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006-2011 Census

Table 8 D White River Population Distribution by Five-Year Age Groups and Sex 100 80 60 40 20 0

2011 Male 320 2011 Female 285

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006-2011 Census

EMPLOYERS

Table 8 E Top 5 Sectors by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 100-199 200-499 500 + Total 40 17 9 2 8 3 1 0 0 0 Accommodation and 9 4 1 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 Food Services Retail Trade 7 2 1 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 Agriculture, Forestry, 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Fishing and Hunting Real Estate and Rental 4 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 and Leasing Construction 3 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 Source: Derived from Business Register, Statistics Canada, June 2012

Table 8 E Top 10 Industries by Number of Employers and Employment Size Ranges 100- 200- 500 Total 0 1-4 5-9 10-19 20-49 50-99 199 499 + Total 40 17 9 2 8 3 1 0 0 0 721 - Accommodation 6 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Services 445 - Food and Beverage 3 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 Stores 447 - Gasoline Stations 3 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 532 - Rental and Leasing 3 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Services 722 - Food Services and 3 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 Drinking Places 113 - Forestry and Logging 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 115 - Support Activities for 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Agriculture and Forestry 236 - Construction of 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 Buildings 811 - Repair and 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Maintenance 238 - Specialty Trade 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Contractors Source: Derived from Business Register, Statistics Canada, June 2012

The sectors with the largest individual employers (> than 50 employees) in White River are:

7222 - Limited-Service Eating Places 7221 - Full-Service Restaurants 9139 - Other Local, Municipal and Regional Public Administration 7211 - Traveller Accommodation 4471 - Gasoline Stations 5324 - Commercial and Industrial Machinery and Equipment Rental and Leasing 1153 - Support Activities for Forestry 8113 - Commercial and Industrial Machinery and Equipment Repair and Maintenance 7221 - Full-Service Restaurants 2361 - Residential Construction

4. PAST ACTIONS TAKEN ( 2012-2013)

Several of the action items pursed in 2012-2013 build on previous activities of the Algoma Workforce Investment committee (AWIC). Past actions undertaken last year in partnership with community stakeholder include:

IMPROVING LOCAL LABOUR MARKET DATA COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION Providing accurate, timely and regionalized Labour Market Data is a challenge in Priority Issue(s) Algoma. This project addressed the issue by developing stronger relationships within Addressed each community to ensure a higher level of data is available

AWIC held a series of round table discussions and met individually with stakeholders to Description do an inventory of the existing data available, identify gaps in the data and develop

partnerships for sharing/gathering data.

The outcome of this project is the availability of stronger Labour Market data to our Outcome(s) partners in Algoma. This also led to a better LLMP consultation process and more engagement with community partners.

Lead or Co-Lead: . AWIC is the lead Confirmed Partners Supporting Partners: Local Chambers of Commerce, Regional EDC, Regional CFDC, ELNOS, Sault Ste. Marie Community Geomatics Centre, other boards and Employment Ontario Service Providers.

May 2012 – Launched weekly Labour Market newsletter. June –July 2012 – Meetings with local data stakeholders including ELNOS, Sault Ste. Timelines & Marie Community Geomatics Centre, Chambers of Commerce, Ministry of Northern Milestones Development & Mines September 2012 – Launched Online Labour Market Survey October/November 2012– LLMP Consultations

Short term: Explore the possibility of a ‗Data Summit‘ where data experts are brought in to present to stakeholders from across the region. Next Steps or Medium term: Follow the progress of the online data portal model being developed by related activities Elgin Middlesex Oxford Workforce Planning and Development Board. ( if applicable) Long term: Generate an RFP to get an estimate of the cost to build a portal for Algoma or develop a shared platform with existing sites (for example the Sault Ste. Marie Community Geomatics Centre).

ALGOMA TRAINING CONSORTIUM DEVELOPMENT The District of Algoma faces an ongoing challenge to update the workforce skills required Priority to sustain and grow the industrial, manufacturing and construction sectors in the region. In Issue(s) many cases the available labour resources are lacking the skill sets required by local Addressed employers in these sectors and the high cost of administrating training programs make regular training very difficult for many individual employers.

AWIC worked with the employers who participated in an earlier research project to Description engage them in the process of developing a training consortium. This took the form of ‗round table‘ forums to discuss the structure that the training consortium should take in order to best meet the needs of the employers and training providers. One of the outcomes sought in the forum discussions was to identify specific training requirements of local employers, match them to existing courses offered by local training partners and deliver the program through a shared platform that all employers can access. This would be a pilot of the Algoma Training Consortium that would demonstrate the proof of concept.

Outcome(s) Outputs: . Held round table discussions to discuss structure and training needs of the employers. . Coordinate training through the Algoma Training Consortium model developed. . Algoma Training Consortium is a hub for employers to identify training needs and share training resources. Lead or Co-Lead: AWIC is the lead. Confirmed Partners Supporting Partners: Sault College, CSTEC, Employment Ontario Service Providers, Regional CFDC, ELNOS, Regional Chamber of Commerce. April 2012– Round table discussion in Elliot Lake with ELNOS, Elliot Lake Chamber of Commerce. July 2012 - Round table discussion in Sault Ste. Marie, participants included ESSAR Steel, Flakeboard and the Sault Ste. Marie Construction Association Timelines & September 2012 - Established a monthly community calendar for Sault Ste. Marie Milestones employers. Employers can submit training requirements/needs in the sectors of construction, industry and manufacturing. February 2013 -Began participation in Literacy Service Provider (LSP) Meetings in Sault Ste. Marie

Continue to develop and deliver the shared training calendar in Sault Ste. Marie. Next Steps or

related Essential Skills (Literacy and Numeracy) have been raised as an issue for employers in the activities skilled trades across the region. AWIC will look at developing partnerships to deliver ( if applicable) Essential Skills training that is tailored to those in the Skill Trades or in an Apprenticeship path.

MINING SECTOR LABOUR MARKET FORECAST The mining industry is key to the future economic growth and development of all of Northern Ontario. In the region of Algoma, this is especially true for communities of Wawa, Chapleau, White River and Dubreuilville. To remain competitive, the mining Issue(s) Addressed industry must have access to a qualified workforce. The identification of the industry's specific labour needs is crucial to ensure that the right people, with the right skills will be readily available when needed. AWIC conducted the research required for a Labour Market Forecast with support Description from the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR). The research covers the entire district, but due to the regional nature of the industry mainly focuses on the Wawa area.

This research project produced a customized regional mining labour market forecast Outcome(s) for 66 mining and mining-related occupations. The report summarizes 2, 5, and 10 year forecasts for our local Mining Industry.

Lead or Co-Lead: Co-Lead Supporting Partners: The research was conducted by AWIC with support from the Mining Industry Human Resource Council (MiHR). This project was also replicated in all of the districts in Northern Ontario and has the support of all of the Workforce Planning boards in the region. This includes the Far Northeast Training Board, The Labour Market Group Confirmed Partners (Nipissing and Parry Sound), The Northwest Training and Adjustment Board, The North Superior Workforce Planning Board and the Sudbury & Manitoulin Workforce Partnership Board. Additional partners include Greater Sudbury Development Corporation and the City of North Bay. Other CFDC‘s across Northern Ontario have also been approached for support in their regions. This includes Kirkland Lake CFDC, South Temiskaming CFDC, Venture Centre CFDC, North Claybelt CFDC and NordAski CFDC, Superior East CFDC. Colleges in Northern Ontario have offered their support for the project. This includes Cambrian College, Canadore College, Collège Boréal, Confederation College and Northern College.

August 2012 – First round of contacts with Mining Stakeholders September 2012 - Mail outs to Key Stakeholders Timelines & September 2012– Second round of Phone calls to Stakeholders Milestones October 2012– Mining Stakeholder meeting in Superior East January 2013– Formation and first meeting of Mining Task Force in Wawa Next Steps or Promotion and distribution of the mining report in Algoma. related activities Continue to develop and work with the Mining Task force in Superior East. ( if applicable)

HEALTH CARE SECTOR RESEARCH The purpose of this project is to forecast the long-term Labour Market opportunities/risks in the Health Care sector. Having and sharing this knowledge will Issue(s) Addressed then allow for the development of ‗home-grown‘ talent through training and education programs. AWIC identified the job descriptions/roles in the Health Care Sector, the skills and Description training required for each role, the existing demand for the role and a longer term

forecast. The outcome will be the identification of all of the job descriptions/roles in the Health Care Sector, the skills and training required for each role, the existing demand for the role and a longer term forecast. The current demand and forecasting would be accomplished through direct contact with employers in the Health Care sector and through partnerships (e.g. NE LHIN).

Outcome(s) Outputs: . Identification of job descriptions and roles in the Health Care Sector. . Surveying of employers in the Health Care Sector to forecast demand. . Communication of the research findings with community partners to develop strategies for address the Labour Market issues identified for the Mining Sector.

Lead or Co-Lead: This partnership will be led by AWIC

Confirmed Partners Supporting Partners: Elliot Lake Centre for Development, NE LHIN, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Health care Providers, ADSAB, Employment Ontario Service Providers, regional employers.

December 2012– Development of Survey Materials January 2013– Testing of survey with key stakeholders Timelines & February 2013– Conduct surveys with Health Care Provider in Blind River and Elliot Milestones Lake March 2013– Summarize data from surveys into a report. Next Steps or related activities Develop strategies and partnerships to address gaps identified by the research. ( if applicable)

STUDENTS PRESENTATIONS (YOU27) Youth out migration is an issue in the region. Part of the issue could be a perceived lack of career opportunities by youth or they may simply not understand what a particular Issue(s) career might entail. AWIC will host a series of presentation highlighting careers in the Addressed skilled trades, health care, science and technology sectors within the different communities in the Algoma District.

AWIC will host a series of presentations to High School Students to engage with local Description employers and organizations to learn more about opportunities in the Science,

Technology, Trades and Healthcare fields.

Enlightening high school kids on careers that they may not have considered at a time when they can take advantage of training and co-op programs that are already in Outcome(s) place. This would help address some of the skills gaps that local employers face when looking to hire locally.

Lead or Co-Lead: This partnership will be led by AWIC.

Confirmed Partners Supporting Partners: Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre, Employment Ontario Service Providers, ADSB, HSCDSB, Sault Ste. Marie Construction Association and regional employers, Algoma District Services Administration Board May 2012 – Presentation to Students in YMCA STEPS. Timelines & October 2012– Participated in Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre‘s ARTIE Science and Milestones Technology career expo. February/March 2013– Student Presentations Next Steps or related activities Continue to promote and highlight rewarding careers that are in demand in the local labour market. ( if applicable)

5. ACTION PLAN (2013-2014)

ACTION #1 Description

Working in the skilled trades can provide rewarding and well- Priority Issue paying jobs. However, literacy skill gaps can contribute to candidates not being able to complete their apprenticeship training.

Past Actions Taken None

Apprenticeship Forums to promote Employment Ontario's new Proposed Actions ‗Supporting Apprenticeship Completions‘ program offered through local literacy service providers. Partnerships would be formed with relevant community stakeholders Applicable Community to ensure that there is greater awareness the program and Partnership participation. AWIC, The Mid North Network, community based Literacy Service Lead Partner(s) Providers. Timelines June 2013 Labour market stakeholders are informed of available Literacy Basic Expected Outcomes Skills service models that promote and support successful apprenticeship completions.

ACTION #2 Description An aging population and workforce creates a threat for employers without appropriate succession plans. At the same time in also creates opportunities for entry into the job market. 2011 Employment Data Priority Issue from Statistics Canada data will provide a general overview of average ages in the employment sector, but it will not provide localized data. Past Actions Taken No recent actions. A survey of employers in all sectors across Algoma to identify the Proposed Actions average age of employees by occupation. Applicable Community Provide education surrounding incorporating succession planning into Partnership a business human resource strategy. AWIC, Chambers of Commerce, Economic Development Offices, Lead Partner(s) Canadian Council of Human Resources Association (CCHRA). Timelines May – June 2013, Employer Survey. August, Final Report Completed. AWIC work with partners to produce and execute a research survey for area employers to identify the average ages of their employees Expected Outcomes by job/role in their organizations. This information will be summarized in a report which will guide future succession planning efforts.

ACTION #3 Description The district of Algoma faces an ongoing challenge to update the workforce skills required to sustain and grow the industrial, manufacturing and construction sectors in the region. In many cases the available labour Priority Issue resources are lacking the skill sets required by local employers in these sectors and the high cost of administrating training programs make regular training very difficult for any individual employers.

A feasibility study in 2012 and the development of a shared training Past Actions Taken calendar for heavy manufactures and construction trades in Sault Ste. Marie.

The Algoma Training Consortium is a framework for Employers and Service Providers to work together to identify training needs, source Proposed Actions training resources, communicate existing training opportunities and share the costs of training.

Applicable Community The Algoma Training Consortium (ATC) would match the training needs of Partnership employers and the workforce with training programs across the region. Sault College, Confederation College, College Boreal, CSTEC, Employment Lead Partner(s) Ontario Service Providers, Regional CFDC, ELNOS, Regional Chambers of Commerce. This is an ongoing project that will continue throughout the year. In April Timelines and May, local employers will be asked to provide input on training needs and resources requirements. An increase in the amount of local training available and awareness of the Expected Outcomes training available in communities across the region.

ACTION #4 Description One of the benefits of AWIC's 2012 LLMP consultations was that we were able to bring together a diverse set of service providers and employers at Priority Issue one table. Many were unaware of the programs and services offered by others in the community that related to labour market issues. Past Actions Taken None Develop localized directories of services and programs offered by service Proposed Actions providers and agencies related to labour market issues. This community partnership would bring employers and students together Applicable Community at a venue that would allow employers workforce development issues Partnership around jobs in innovation. AWIC, Employment Ontario Agencies, Ontario Works Agencies, Ontario Lead Partner(s) Disability Support Program April - August, collect and format program information. October Release Timelines the Directory. A consolidated directory of services and programs available locally which Expected Outcomes will allow for better integration of service delivery and clarity of roles for clients/employers. 43

ACTION #5 Description

An aging population combined with an out migration of youth combined with an increase in demand for skilled labour means that Priority Issue immigration could play an important role in meeting local Labour Market demands.

Participated in the Sault Ste. Marie Local Immigration Partnership Past Actions Taken ―Welcoming Diversity and Unity in Diversity‖ forum.

The Sault Ste. Marie Local Immigration Partnership model can be utilized across the Algoma region. AWIC can help establish the Proposed Actions partnership regional as well as identifying skills gaps in local Labour Markets that could be addressed with immigration.

Applicable Community Partnerships to promote the region as a destination for new Partnership immigrants.

AWIC, Sault Ste. Marie Local Immigration Partnership, Municipalities Lead Partner(s) across Algoma.

Timelines Ongoing

Expected Outcomes An increase in immigration into the region.

6. APPENDICES List of Participating Community Stakeholders

INDUSTRY & BUSINESS HEALTH CARE Canadian Steel Trade Employment Congress Algoma EMS (Elliot Lake Ambulance Services) Community Development Corp. of Sault Ste. Marie & Area Algoma Public Health Blind River & District Chamber of Commerce Almost Heaven Day Spa Blind River Development Corporation Arnold Dentistry Prof Corp. East Algoma Community Futures Development Corporation Children‘s Rehabilitation Centre Algoma Elliot Lake and District Chamber of Commerce Club Des Aines L‘Etoile D‘Or D‘Elliot Lake Elliot Lake Centre for Development Community Care Access Centre ELNOS Counselling Centre of East Algoma Equipment World Dr. B. Bourret‘s Dentist Office Essar Steel Algoma Dr. R. Ferguson‘s Optometrist Office G.P. Flakeboard Dr. Rene Purzner‘s Dentist Office Harte Gold Corporation Elliot Lake Denture Clinic MiHR Elliot Lake Family Health Team Prodigy Gold Elliot Lake Pharmachoice PUC Freitag‘s Remedy‘s RX Richmont Mines Hillside Park Retirement Residence Sault Ste. Marie Construction Association Lennon Family Chiropractic Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation Lyrette Opticians Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre Manitoba Road Animal Hospital Strike Minerals/Superior Aggregates Mitchell Pharmacy Superior East Community Futures Development Corporation No Frills Drugstore Pharmacy Wawa Economic Development Corporation North Shore Physiotherapy Wesdome Gold Mines LTD Oaks Centre (Camillus Centre & Withdrawal Management Services) MUNICIPALITIES Rexall City of Elliot Lake Sault Area Hospital City of Sault Ste. Marie St. Joseph‘s General Hospital Municipality of Wawa St. Joseph‘s Manor North Superior Mayors Group The Corporation of the Township of Dubreuilville COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS The Township of St. Joseph Algoma District Services Administration Board Contact North EDUCATION Employment Options Algoma District School Board Employment Solutions- Blind River Algoma University Employment Solutions- Sault Ste. Marie Confederation College Local Immigration Program Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board Mamaweswen the North Shore Tribal Council Sault College Metis Nation of Ontario North Algoma Literacy Coalition GOVERNMENT North Channel Literacy Service Canada North Superior Tribal Council Ministry of Northern Development and Mines Program Read Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Regional Employment Help Centre Ontario Works Sault Community Career Centre YesYouCan Employment Consulting ZAD Consulting Inc.

Algoma Workforce Investment Committee 68 Dennis Street, Suite 206 Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2W9 Phone 705-941-9341 Fax 705-941-9588