Talent and Workforce
A skilled workforce, ready for opportunity
Kawartha Lakes is home to a strong, diverse labour force with deep roots in manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, construction, and a growing knowledge and creative economy. With access to local post-secondary institutions, specialized training programs, and regional partnerships, businesses in Kawartha Lakes have access to the talent they need to grow and succeed.
Local Labour Force at a Glance
- Population: Over 79,000 residents
- Labour force: More than 35,000
- Top employment sectors: Manufacturing, healthcare, construction, retail, education
- Workforce insights: Steady job growth, diverse skills and a strong culture of entrepreneurship
Get local workforce data and regional trends from the Workforce Development Board and Kawartha Lakes Business Count.
Accessing Talent
Kawartha Lakes is connected to a wide network of talent pipelines:
Fleming College
Fleming College hosts 17,000 full and part-time students. The Frost campus in Lindsay is one of Canada’s leading environmental institutions and the Kawartha Trades & Technology Centre in Peterborough is a world-class training facility implementing progressive learning tools.
Trent University
Consistently rated among Ontario and Canada’s top universities, Trent University is recognized nationally for superior teaching, research and student satisfaction. Leadership, social action, and collaboration are some of the drivers of learning for over 12,000 students.
Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby and with a strong focus on student experience, Durham College’s 15,000 full time students are pursuing unique programs and courses designed to ensure their success in highly competitive industries.
Ontario Tech University
Ontario Tech University inspires and equips their graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. The institution’s two Oshawa campuses offer 53 undergraduate and 38 graduate programs to over 10,000 students.
Specialized high school programs like the Manufacturing Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) connect students to real-world career paths in skilled trades, manufacturing, healthcare, and more. These programs offer certifications, co-op placements with local employers, and sector-focused training—helping build a job-ready talent pipeline right here in Kawartha Lakes.
Workforce Tools and Opportunities
Kawartha Lakes is committed to building a resilient, future-ready workforce. Whether you're starting out, changing careers, or upgrading your skills, this page connects you to training programs, labour market data, job postings, and tools to support your next step.
Fleming Muskoka-Kawarthas Employment Services
Fleming Employment Hub, managed by Fleming College, provides free employment services for job seekers and employers across the region. Funded by the provincial and federal governments, it offers job search support, training programs, hiring incentives, and connects people to local opportunities.
New Canadian Centre (NCC)
NCC is a non-profit organization supporting immigrants, refugees, and newcomers through settlement services, employment supports, language programs, and community connections. NCC fosters inclusion and belonging across Peterborough, Northumberland, and surrounding areas.
VCCS Employment Services
VCCS Employment Services offers free employment supports to job seekers and employers. Services include job search assistance, resume and interview support, training programs, and employer hiring support.
Workforce Development Board (WDB)
WDB is a not-for-profit organization funded by the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. WDB provides labour market information, coordinates employment and training services, and engages employer communities.
Workforce Advantage
Employer Support
Our Economic Development team can help you:
- Connect with employment service proviers and post-secondary institutions
- Navigate training and hiring incentive programs
- Promote local job opportunities
- Access regional data and labour market insights
