Written by Md Masud Khan, The Chamber Student Intern, Master in Management Program, University of Winnipeg

Advances in technology artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are rapidly changing the future of work in Winnipeg. Here are the stats, key developments and opportunities employers should know.

How AI is Evolving Our Workforce Right Now 

Technology is reshaping industries worldwide and transforming the skills needed from workers. According to the World Economic Forum, digital transformation is expected to be the biggest trend in the future of work, with 60% of employers predicting it will change their businesses by 2030.  

The Future of Jobs report highlights a rapidly evolving work landscape, with 70% of employers ranking analytical thinking as their most desirable trait among employees in 2025. Alongside problem-solving, resilience, flexibility, leadership and social influence are also top priorities – qualities that help professionals lead, connect, and grow in times of change.

The good news? These are skills we can all develop. Whether through mentorship, hands-on experience, or continues learning, investing in these abilities will help you stay ahead and shape the future of work.

This transformation also brings new opportunities for employees and employers from a macro view:

• 170 million new jobs will be created globally.
• A net increase of 78 million jobs, resulting in 7% total employment growth. 

Winnipeg’s Shift Toward a Digital Economy 

Winnipeg is ranked one of Canada’s top five up-and-coming tech hubs and among the top 25 in North America. This recognition highlights Winnipeg’s potential to leverage automation and AI to drive productivity, foster innovation and enhance its position as a key player in the tech industry. 

However, challenges still exist.  

• 14% of Canadian businesses are early Gen AI adopters, mostly larger businesses, while 97% of businesses in Winnipeg and Canada are small. 

• Only 30% of Canadians have digital skills, expected to fall to 23% in five years, with small businesses employing 46.8% of the private labor force.  

Despite its challenges, Canada ranks 9th out of 33 countries in its potential to benefit from AI – a strong position, but one that comes with increasing global competition. To keep up, Winnipeg needs to double down on innovation while making sure no one is left behind. 

A big part of that? Investing in our talent pipeline. Winnipeg has one of the largest and fastest-growing Indigenous populations in Canada, with Indigenous youth being the fastest growing demographic. As businesses evolve with AI and automation, ensuring Indigenous talent has access to education, training, and career opportunities will be key to filling workforce gaps, driving innovation, and strengthening our economy. 

Canada is already recognized as one of the top 10 most innovative economies globally, but maintaining that position won’t happen by accident. the future of work is shifting – now’s the time to make sure Winnipeg is ready to lead.

Winnipeg is already making its mark as a tech hub, and now is the time to take advantage of this momentum. 

Join Experts to Decide What’s Next for Winnipeg

A key session at the ECONx 2025 summit is “Winnipeg as a Leader in the Future of Work.” Led by Noel Baldwin, Interim Executive Director of the Future Skills Centre, this session will explore how businesses can effectively integrate AI and automation.  

Baldwin’s expertise will be central to guiding the conversation on how Winnipeg can harness these technologies to enhance productivity while also focusing on re-skilling the workforce to meet the demands of growing industries. 

“In these turbulent times, the skills of our people have never been more important. We need to support and develop the skills of every person across the country to be resilient and thrive. Many of our resources for success in doing this are in communities like Winnipeg, so join us to talk about what we know can be effective in skills and workforce development and how Winnipeg is positioned to create a bright future.”  

– Noel Baldwin, Interim Executive Director of the Future Skills Centre.  

Learn More and Register for ECONx

Winnipeg stands at the crossroads of opportunity and challenge as it navigates the future of work. Embracing automation, AI and inclusive workforce development will be key to ensuring that the businesses and our local economy thrive in the years to come.  

The ECONx 2025 summit presents a crucial opportunity to shape Winnipeg’s future, providing a platform for collaboration, innovation, and action.  

Date: Tuesday, April 29 

Location: RBC Winnipeg Convention Centre. 

To register, visit ECONx 2025 and secure your spot today.