Online tool provides data on Grand Erie’s Workforce

MEDIA RELEASE (April 23, 2024) – A new, interactive online tool gives people instant access to demographic information about the area’s workforce.

The Demographic Profiles of Grand Erie tool makes it easier to find detailed data on the workingage population (15+ years of age) in our area’s two census divisions: Brantford-Brant and HaldimandNorfolk

The tool was launched by the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie, with support from the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development It can be found on the board’s website: www.workforceplanningboard.org

“I’d like to congratulate the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie on the release of their Demographic Profiles of Grand Erie tool,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “This tool will support workers in finding job opportunities now and in the future, close to home.”

The information, based on Statistic Canada’s latest census, can be searched by age and gender to answer questions related to employment by occupation and industry, by educational attainment, and more For example:

* What percentage of BranfordBrant’s labour force has a postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree? Answer: 50%

* How many men in Grand Erie have an apprenticeship or trades certificate? Answer: 12,000. How many women? Answer: 3,600

* What percentage of HaldimandNorfolk residents over the age of 65 are working? Answer: 13%

* What percentage of Grand Erie’s youth work in sales and service occupations, such as cashiers and food counter attendants? Answer: 43%.

“These may seem like obscure trivia questions, but to businesses, government services and community organizations the data can be useful for planning,” said Danette Dalton, the planning board’s executive director.

“If, for example, the data says a large percentage of truck drivers are over the age of 55 and soon to retire – and it does - it shows a need to create job training programs and marketing to get younger residents behind the wheel.”

Dalton said businesses looking to move to Grand Erie or expand their operations want to know there’s a pool of workers in the occupations they need, whether that’s accountants, engineers, welders, computer programmers or machine operators, etc.

Meanwhile, community organizations and government can use demographic data to identify the need for new programs or services to support residents in a targeted way, she said.

This Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –Business negotiations are favored, especially long-term investments and real estate Whether personal or professional, the discussions you have will likely be profound. The people you interact with may be much older or younger than you. You will come across as knowledgeable and respected

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth)

– You could study, sit exams, or apply for a loan or a job You can see how the smaller parts fit into the bigger picture This is also a good time for making long-term plans and organizing anything from your kitchen drawers to a business proposal. You will be practical, efficient and thorough

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air)Relationship problems can result from unrealistic expectations, strange desires or suspicion Caution and moderation are needed to avoid disappointment. Don’t let your fears or imagination get the better of you, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true

Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water) – This is a good time for studying, making important decisions, negotiations, long-term planning, and signing contracts, especially those involving real estate and shares. You can also be confident about making commitments. New friendships and partnerships should be lasting and dependable

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –This is an excellent time to indulge in a creative hobby or relax with a movie or favorite music You will find yourself being drawn to anything of beauty and want to stay well away from any situations or environments that are harsh or aggressive.

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – Your increased magnetic allure will attract a tender, caring person, possibly a genuine soul mate or spiritual partner This is a favorable time for shopping for clothes, cosmetics, and jewelry for yourself, plus anything to decorate your home or add luxury to your life.

Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - Your creative skills flow effortlessly, primarily through art, music and poetry Shopping for clothes and accessories benefits from your heightened sense of fashion and beauty. A dreamy, relaxed attitude is ideal for lazing around with a novel or movie. This is a perfect time for love relationships.

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – A harmonious balance between flirty sexuality and affectionate love makes you especially attractive This is an excellent time to find the perfect match and improve existing relationships. You also have great energy and courage and focus on pouring into anything related to creativity, beauty, making money, and initiating new projects

Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – Your soft, loving side balances your raw sexual desire so you can be direct without coming on too strong Your increased personal beauty and charisma make you popular in social situations. Existing love relationships should flourish, or you could find your true soulmate

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – You should feel more friendly and better able to express your passionate desires Increased sexual attraction, courage and initiative make this an excellent time for dating. This is also a good time to start a new financial venture or partnership and any new competitive, physical, or creative project You are in charge of your destiny

Aquarius: January 20 –February 18 (Air) – Business negotiations are favored, especially long-term investments and real estate Whether personal or professional, the discussions you have will likely be profound The people you interact with may be much older or younger than you You will come across as knowledgeable and respected

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – It is a terrific time for romance and socializing The perfect blend of sexuality and affection makes you look and feel sexy This balance also means you are ready to give and receive love and adoration. You can be confident and assertive in chasing your desires without coming on too strong. This is also a good time for self-promotion and starting a pet project.