According to several government and economic studies, Quebec will face a significant shortage of skilled workers in the coming years. Companies will need to adapt to this new reality and invest more in attracting and retaining talent.
What will be the most sought-after jobs by 2035? Here are the main trends to watch.
1. Specialists in Artificial Intelligence and Data
Artificial intelligence is already present in many sectors: recruitment, healthcare, finance, logistics, marketing, and industrial manufacturing.
Companies are increasingly looking for professionals capable of:
- Developing artificial intelligence models
- Analyzing large amounts of data
- Automating business processes
- Implementing predictive tools
Among the most sought-after professions:
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Artificial Intelligence Engineer
- AI Solutions Architect
- Automation Specialist
Quebec already has one of the largest artificial intelligence hubs in the world thanks to Montreal, which will strongly support the growth of these jobs.
2. Cybersecurity Experts
With the increase in cyberattacks and the digitization of businesses, cybersecurity is becoming a strategic priority.
Organizations must protect:
- Their customers' data
- IT infrastructures
- Production systems
- Transactional platforms
Fast-growing jobs include:
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Digital Risk Manager
- Security Architect
- IT Compliance Expert
- Data Protection Specialist
Demand already far exceeds the available workforce supply.
3. Jobs Related to Energy Transition
Quebec is investing heavily in renewable energy, transportation electrification, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
This transition will create thousands of jobs in the coming years.
The most promising professions include:
- Renewable Energy Engineer
- Electric Vehicle Technician
- Electromechanic
- Energy Efficiency Expert
- Environmental Project Manager
The expansion of the battery and electric vehicle sector will also contribute to creating many opportunities.
4. Healthcare Professionals
The aging Quebec population represents one of the biggest challenges of the coming decades.
By 2035, the proportion of elderly people will continue to rise, generating strong demand for:
- Nurses
- Personal Support Workers
- Occupational Therapists
- Physiotherapists
- Medical Technologists
- Healthcare Service Managers
The needs will be particularly significant in regions where the population is aging more rapidly.
5. Employee Experience and Human Resources Specialists
The labor shortage is prompting companies to rethink their recruitment and retention strategies.
HR professionals will play an increasingly strategic role.
Growing positions include:
- Talent Acquisition Advisor
- Employer Branding Specialist
- HR Analyst
- Employee Experience Manager
- Organizational Transformation Consultant
Human-related skills will remain essential despite increasing automation.
6. Information Technology Experts
The technology sector will continue to generate thousands of well-paying jobs.
The most sought-after profiles will be:
- Software Developer
- Cloud Architect
- DevOps Engineer
- Systems Administrator
- IT Business Analyst
- Technology Project Manager
The digital transformation of Quebec businesses is just beginning.
7. Specialized Trades Will Remain Essential
Contrary to some beliefs, many manual trades will still be in high demand.
Automation will not easily replace professions requiring technical expertise on the ground.
Among the most sought-after trades:
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Industrial Mechanic
- Welder
- Machinist
- Maintenance Technician
The current shortage in these sectors may even worsen.
The Skills of the Future
Beyond professions, certain skills will become essential to remain competitive in the job market:
Technological Skills
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Analysis
- Cybersecurity
- Automation
Human Skills
- Communication
- Leadership
- Creativity
- Problem Solving
Adaptability Skills
- Continuous Learning
- Change Management
- Collaboration
- Critical Thinking
Workers who can combine technical expertise with human skills will be particularly sought after.
The jobs of the future in Quebec will be heavily influenced by technological advancements, environmental issues, and demographic changes. While artificial intelligence will transform many sectors, it will not replace the importance of human and relational skills.
For both workers and companies, the key to success will lie in the ability to adapt quickly, develop new skills, and embrace the changes that are already redefining the Quebec job market.
Organizations that anticipate these trends today will be best positioned to attract the talents of tomorrow.
