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2025 was a challenging year to provide career services in sustainability, environment, and climate-focused sectors. While the renewables sector is forecasted to grow, seekers might not prioritize their passion for climate in the current market. Even with a strong desire for a greener career, climate-related sectors are often cast as political battlegrounds. In a demanding job market, it can be tough to justify pursuing passion in addition to a paycheck.
When I was at Climate Crossroads, a conference for post-secondary students interested in careers in renewable energy, many were hopeful but still nervous about their prospects. Climate Crossroads was hosted by my employer, Iron & Earth, a non-profit that supports a Just Transition by removing barriers to participation in the green economy, in partnership with the University of Toronto’s Master of Science in Sustainability Management. The event brought together students exploring renewable energy careers at a time when climate and energy policy remained politically charged. That tension shaped many of the conversations throughout the day.
Throughout the conference, speakers highlighted a range of climate career journeys and how most roles can also be green jobs. Mathieu Côté of the Canadian Renewable Energy Association emphasized the huge projected growth in renewable careers, not only in installation and grid development, but in communications, HR, logistics and management. Even though renewables are often politicized, they are a practical solution to many energy problems and the demand continues to grow. Renewables are an increasingly important part of Canada’s evolving energy mix. The mood in the room grew brighter as the day progressed.
While students left the conference with a stronger sense of possibility, there were also plenty of lessons for career practitioners.
First, there are more green careers than many jobseekers realize, and sustainability can be integrated into almost any workplace. Jobseekers who care deeply about climate don’t need to limit their job search to a specific sector or type of work. Their knowledge, advocacy or research are desirable skills in many sectors.
Second, while the renewables landscape looks different in each province and region, the sector is projected to grow in the next few decades, from coast to coast to coast. Long-term labour market forecasts suggest continued expansion, even when the sector faces political scrutiny.
Third, one of the biggest barriers to entering a newer sector is a lack of connection with those currently in the industry. Many sector experts recognize how daunting this can be and want to help jobseekers find their way into the field. Addressing this hurdle is a big reason for Iron & Earth’s free mentorship program through our Climate Career Portal. Career centres serving climate-conscious clients might consider inviting speakers from local renewable employers or establishing contacts who connect with curious jobseekers.
When we were planning our first conference, we hit plenty of hurdles and there were moments when we feared the momentum would dry up. But jobseekers, employers and workers across industries are interested and invested in developing green career paths. Holding space to explore careers in climate demonstrates how practical and achievable green work can be. These conversations attract audiences and produce meaningful results.
