Name
Panel Discussion: Strengthening the Skilled Trades Workforce
Date & Time
Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 11:35 AM - 12:15 PM
Speakers
Abhilash (Abhi) Kantamneni, HRAI
Tanya Ratzlaff, Home Performance Stakeholder Council
Lisa Rae, CIET
Patricia Lightburn, Canadian Renewable Energy Association
Tanya Ratzlaff, Home Performance Stakeholder Council
Lisa Rae, CIET
Patricia Lightburn, Canadian Renewable Energy Association
Description
This panel focuses on the growing gap between skilled trades demand and the systems responsible for training, recruitment, and long-term retention. It examines where current workforce models fall short and why aligning industry needs, training pathways, and employer readiness is critical to sustaining the sector. The discussion will explore practical strategies to strengthen recruitment pipelines, improve retention, and build a more resilient skilled trades workforce.