In today's competitive, global, and constantly evolving economy there is little doubt that knowledge and skills continue to play a defining role in shaping Canada’s economic prosperity and sustainability. Globalization is breaking down the established structures of industry, requiring companies and governments to adjust ever more quickly if they are to survive. As well, local markets are often no longer sufficient to sustain prosperity and the search for export markets becomes more and more critical. New industries such as photonics and bio-technology are emerging at the same time as old industries such as manufacturing are being fundamentally transformed by technologies and new production methods, as still other industries are moving production to ‘low cost’ countries.

This report provides information that connects skills and learning in the workplace to Canada’s economic and social goals of productivity, innovation, competitiveness, and improved quality of life. It is designed to provide an overview into decisions made by business and government in investing in workplace skills and learning strategies, and, in particular, investing in sectoral approaches to skills development.