Pearson recognized for building workforce of the future
It’s official, Toronto Pearson is where careers take flight.
The news: Canada’s busiest airport is among the first to be certified by a new Airport Workforce Development Accreditation program—recognizing its strong community ties and commitment to creating pathways to good jobs.
Why it matters: “Toronto Pearson is working with employers, government, educational institutions and community partners to remove barriers to employment and foster career growth,” says Ruba Al-Nazer, Associate Director of Social Impact. “Because when our communities thrive, the airport thrives.”
How Pearson leads: Toronto Pearson has numerous airport-wide initiatives to grow and sustain a future-ready workforce. These include:
The Pearson Ready-to-Work program, which has so-far provided over 170 job seekers with the skills, certifications and hands-on experience needed to succeed in airport roles.
The Uplift Fund, which has invested more than $5 million in supporting local communities and workforce development initiatives since 2018.
I Am Toronto Pearson, which fosters pride and connection across the airport workforce.
The background: 52,000 people currently work at Toronto Pearson. That number is expected to grow with rising passenger numbers over the next decade. At the same time, advances in technology and changing traveller expectations will open new roles and create demand for new skills.
“Ensuring sustained access to a skilled, engaged and future-ready workforce is one of the most pressing issues facing the North American airport industry today,” says Kevin M. Burke, President and CEO of Airports Council International – North America, which launched the accreditation program earlier this year.
