Future-proofing young Canadians with disabilities for the changing labour market

Reasons for the study

In industrialized countries, the future of work is characterized by rising automation and digitization of jobs, increased exposure to precarious work, growing employment in the gig and sharing economies, and ecological and sociopolitical changes. The future of work has the potential to create new challenges that disproportionality affect vulnerable labour market subgroups, including young workers and people living with disabilities.

In this study, we systematically examine the future of work as it relates to young people with disabilities, with the aim of anticipating the work and labour market changes that will affect their inclusion and success in the future of work. Findings can help inform the design of future-proofed policies and programs for young people with disabilities that can be implemented in the present to address the anticipated shocks and stresses of the future of work.

Objectives of the study

Target audience

Policy-makers, educators, employers, employment service providers, vocational rehabilitation professionals, youth-based community organizations, young adults with disabilities and their families will find these study results useful for informing the design of future-proofed policies and programs that can be implemented now to help ensure the inclusion of young people with disabilities in the future of work.