28,000 Jobs on the Line: What Federal Layoffs Mean for Workers and How to Prepare Now

Recent reporting by Mark Ramzy of the Toronto Star has brought renewed attention to the reality of large scale layoffs within the federal public service. According to the article, the Carney government has begun formally notifying employees across at least 18 federal departments that job cuts are coming, as part of a broader plan to reduce federal spending by nearly $60 billion over the next five years. Approximately 28,000 public service roles are expected to be eliminated, signalling a shift from long term planning to immediate execution.

While layoffs on this scale are deeply unsettling, they are not uncommon during periods of fiscal restraint. For individuals, preparation and proactive planning can significantly reduce the long term impact of job loss. The most important first step is understanding transferable skills. Many public servants possess strong competencies in project management, policy analysis, communications, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. Mapping these skills to private sector, nonprofit, or broader public sector roles can open new employment pathways.

Retraining and upskilling are also critical. Short term, targeted training often delivers the best return, particularly in areas with sustained demand such as information technology, cybersecurity, data analytics, health administration, skilled trades, and regulated professions. Microcredentials, certificates, and diploma programs aligned with labour market needs allow displaced workers to re enter the workforce more quickly than lengthy academic programs. Career coaching and labour market research can help individuals choose training that leads directly to employment, rather than credentials without demand.

Employers also have an important role to play when layoffs are unavoidable. Transparent communication, early notice, and access to transition supports help maintain dignity and trust. Providing severance clarity, career transition services, mental health supports, and referrals to retraining programs can significantly improve outcomes for affected employees. Employers who invest in responsible offboarding also protect their reputation and maintain morale among remaining staff.

This is where Job Skills can support both employees and employers. Job Skills works with individuals who have been laid off to identify career goals, assess transferable skills, and connect them to funded training and employment programs. For employers, Job Skills can provide workforce transition support, referrals to retraining opportunities, and guidance on responsible workforce adjustment strategies that prioritize long term employability.

One key program available to laid off workers in Ontario is Better Jobs Ontario. This provincial program provides financial support to eligible individuals who need skills training to transition into in demand occupations. Better Jobs Ontario may cover tuition, books, transportation, and basic living costs while participants complete approved training programs. Eligibility typically requires that an individual has been laid off or is unemployed and facing barriers to re employment in their previous occupation. The program focuses on training that leads directly to jobs with strong employment prospects.

While the scale of the federal public service layoffs outlined by Mark Ramzy is significant, early action can make a meaningful difference. With the right supports, retraining strategies, and partnerships between workers, employers, and organizations like Job Skills, career transitions can become opportunities for stability and growth rather than long term disruption.

ABOUT JOB SKILLS

Since 1988, Job Skills has been delivering solutions to job seekers and moving people into sustainable, meaningful employment. Throughout their long history, Job Skills has recognized that not every job seeker is the same. There is no one size fits all employment program. That’s why the Job Skills vision is building an inclusive society where all people are ensured equitable opportunities to fulfill their career aspirations and participate fully in the community.

Job Skills’ employment specialists are there to answer any of your employment questions. Job Skills‘ staff offer solutions to all job seekers, including youth, newcomers, mature workers, persons with disabilities, and entrepreneurs. Job Skills’ knowledgeable team can help you make educated decisions, set goals, and create a strategy to help you become happier in your career. Job Skills works with local employers creating employment opportunities for Job Skills’ clients.

Thanks to government funding, Job Skills’ programs and services are free to all users. Job Skills have locations across Keswick, Stouffville, Markham, Brampton, and Mississauga. Job Skills also offers virtual services for community members unable to attend one of our offices for in-person activities.

Find your employment solution today. Visit www.jobskills.org