This session explores the rapidly evolving Canadian labour market, sought-after employment skills, and the transformative impact of AI on the nature of work. As Canadian institutions strive to attract diverse international students (IS), professionals in the IS recruitment sector must understand the nuances of demographic shifts and their profound implications for education, the economy, and employment. This foundational understanding will empower them to develop innovative and effective strategies.

We will examine recent data on the Canadian labour market, shedding light on the demographic shifts and trends reshaping the workforce. This analysis will offer powerful insights into broader impacts on the economy, education, and employment, enabling professionals to anticipate and proactively address the needs of international students.

We will identify the specific skills Canadian employers seek in today’s competitive job market. We will employ just-in-time analytics to pinpoint high-demand competencies and explore how IS can leverage their current skills effectively. This segment will emphasize the importance of targeted career development strategies that combine the precision of AI with the empathy and insight that only human intervention can provide (AI + HI).

We will discuss how AI-driven tools and AI Agents can significantly enhance career development strategies within the education sector, showcasing practical examples from Thompson Rivers University and the industry. This session will equip professionals with actionable knowledge and powerful tools to remain competitive and responsive to their clientele's diverse needs. They will be empowered to implement these strategies within their institutions, driving meaningful change and fostering success for IS.