Mentor Riley: The Rise of Eco-Friendly Construction Trades

Across the skilled trades, one thing is clear: the future is green. As sustainable construction and energy-efficient technologies become the new standard, trades professionals are leading the way in reshaping how we build, power, and live in our communities.

This month, Support Ontario Youth Mentor Riley Chafe shares his perspective on the rapid rise of eco-friendly construction and how the next generation of tradespeople can adapt, learn, and thrive in this changing landscape.

Adapting to a Greener Future in Construction

“As the world comes to grips with the impact we increasingly have on it, the finite resources we have to work with, and the growing need to efficiently house, feed, and care for a rising population, there’s more focus than ever on sustainable building practices. This shift creates a unique set of challenges for construction companies and skilled tradespeople. We’re being called to rethink old methods and adapt to new materials and consumer demands. But with these challenges come great opportunities for anyone willing to pioneer new technologies and stay educated on evolving solutions.

This opportunity touches nearly every trade. Some electricians will continue to specialize in solar and energy storage technology, while others will work side by side with HVAC technicians installing high-efficiency heat pumps. Plumbers will need to master heat-recapture systems. Insulators will push to make homes increasingly vapour-tight, reducing heat loss even further. Framers will need to keep pace with fast-changing codes and engineered wood products designed to carry heavier loads.

New and re-emerging trades are also on the rise. Roles like wind turbine technicians have appeared in recent years, while others (such as those related to nuclear power) are seeing renewed demand. Auto mechanics are discovering opportunities to work on electric vehicle drivetrains and power systems. As EVs become more common, this could be a great chance for young tradespeople to develop expertise in this growing niche.

These technologies are here to stay and may soon become the norm. While some tradespeople will continue to work on legacy systems, others will need to adapt if they want long, successful careers.

In such a fast-changing landscape, new apprentices face a common challenge: how to master technologies that even their mentors may have limited experience with. The answer will differ for everyone. Some may take risks, like switching jobs to join companies that embrace emerging technologies. Others might do their own research, experiment, or take extra courses to learn independently.

Ideally, an apprentice will be able to show their employer the value of future-proofing their skills, learning side by side with journeypersons and mentors. However they approach it, investing in these new capabilities is an investment that’s likely to pay off for years to come.” — Riley Chafe, SOY Mentor

Looking Ahead

The construction industry is evolving…and the skilled trades are helping to lead that evolution. Staying curious, adaptable, and informed will be key for anyone entering the field today. Through mentorship, education, and connection, Support Ontario Youth is helping build a workforce ready for the future of sustainable construction.

Ready to join the next generation of trades professionals making a difference?

Explore our Trades Readiness Program for help entering your skilled trades career. Want to test the waters? Sign up for one of our Tools in the Trades Boot Camps to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Have questions? Reach out! We’d love to help! And stay tuned for more stories and advice from mentors who are walking the walk in trades they love.