Talent & Workforce
Skilled Workforce
Elgin County is home to a workforce highly skilled in the manufacturing, construction, and transportation industries. We have a high concentration of skilled professionals ready to support and advance your business operations.
A Growing Population
Did you know that Elgin County is home to nearly 95,000 people? And that number is expected to reach over 102,000 by 2026. The entire region has a population of over 717,000 but will grow to almost 793,000 in the next few years. With an average commute time of just 21 minutes, the region boasts a convenient and mobile workforce.
Workforce Education and Employment
What’s more, the residents of Elgin County are highly educated, with many holding college degrees or industry training. The leading employment sectors include manufacturing, construction, and transportation, with primary occupations in trades, equipment operation, sales, and administration.
Top Industries %
Highest Level of Education %
Regional Powerhouse
Elgin County is part of a thriving region with access to a vast and growing talent pool. Key educational institutions contribute significantly to our skilled workforce and provide expertise to manufacturers in research and innovation:
Western University
With an annual enrollment of 40,000 students, Western offers over 60 undergraduate programs and 45 internship and co-op programs, ensuring a continuous supply of well-qualified graduates. What’s more, local employers benefit from a network of 150,000 students within a 120-kilometre radius.
Fanshawe College
With a focus on practical skills, Fanshawe College serves 23,000 students across five locations. The college offers over 40 skilled trade and apprenticeship programs and more than 33 co-op programs, and an impressive 87% of graduates find employment within one year.
Fanshawe College also provides customized training to meet manufacturing needs, offering on-demand and structured courses, micro-certification workshops, and product testing for industry standards. Additionally, the college supports employers by facilitating co-op placements, work terms, and internships, contributing to the skilled workforce in the region.
