ICBA: 72% of B.C. contractors can’t find enough tradespeople
The association says government must tackle this issue and others.
Key Takeaways:
- 72% of B.C. contractors report a shortage of skilled tradespeople, leading to project delays, higher costs, and challenges in addressing housing and infrastructure needs in the province.
- Nearly two-thirds (63%) of contractors feel the government is on the “wrong track” in addressing their concerns.
- Despite challenges, the construction sector shows strong demand, with 50% of contractors expecting increased work volumes in 2025.
- The average hourly wage is now $37 (annual base salary of $77,000).
The Whole Story:
According to the latest data from the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA), 72% of B.C. contractors report a shortage of skilled tradespeople.
The group stated that its 2025 Wage and Benefits Survey of its construction members highlights that this persistent issue is forcing businesses to delay or turn down projects and absorb rising costs, undermining B.C.’s ability to address its housing and infrastructure needs.
Further, 63% of respondents said government is on the “wrong track” in dealing with a business like theirs – only 5% answered that government is on the “right track.”
“When nearly two-thirds of businesses in a major job-creating sector say the government is on the wrong track, it’s time to listen,” said Chris Gardner, ICBA President and CEO. “Labour shortages remain a significant challenge facing construction, and government must get serious about fast-tracking training programs and aligning immigration policies with industry needs.”
Despite these challenges, demand in the construction sector remains strong. Nearly 50% of contractors expect increased work volumes in 2025, with average anticipated growth reaching 19%. Wages in construction also remain highly competitive, with the average hourly rate climbing to $37, equating to an annual base salary of $77,000 – without bonuses, benefits or overtime factored in.
“Our industry continues to deliver, despite worker shortages, regulatory burdens, and project delays. But B.C.’s construction sector could contribute so much more if government policies enabled us to thrive,” Gardner added. “Instead, contractors and businesses get more red tape, higher taxes, and a seemingly never-ending stream of anti-business rhetoric that have many saying it’s never been harder to start and build a business in B.C. than it is today.”
The survey found that expected average hourly wage rate across all construction trades for 2025 is now roughly $37 and heading higher. That equates to an annual salary of about $77,000 – before benefits, bonuses, profit-sharing and overtime – and puts construction in the top tier of industries (#6) ranked by wage rates. Projected wage increases outstrip expected inflation, meaning people in the industry will continue to see their buying power and lifestyles improve.
The ICBA added that they believe the survey underscores the urgent need for the provincial and federal governments to tackle skills shortages, streamline approvals, and prioritize policies that support housing and infrastructure development.
