Hub Podcasts The first job is disappearing—young Canadians deserve better
Jul 28, 2025
The podcast dives into the troubling decline of entry-level jobs for young Canadians, detailing how federal labor policies are contributing to unemployment. It highlights the struggle teens face in Ontario, with nearly 25% unable to find work, even as certain industries thrive. The discussion reveals how rising minimum wage laws and strict hiring regulations create hurdles for inexperienced workers. The hosts argue that young Canadians deserve better opportunities to launch their careers.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Entry-Level Jobs Displaced
- Entry-level jobs in Ontario are increasingly taken by temporary foreign workers and international students, crowding out local youth.
- Federal immigration policy combined with provincial regulations distorts the labor market and limits opportunities for teenagers.
First Jobs Were Formative
- Traditional first jobs helped youth gain independence, confidence, and good habits.
- These formative roles are disappearing, reducing opportunities for youth to develop work skills early.
Misaligned International Student Focus
- International student programs in Ontario prioritize revenue over labor market needs, focusing on business rather than in-demand fields.
- This creates underemployment among international graduates and saturates low-skill job markets.