However, despite its rich history, many of the town’s employers are facing skills shortages and are struggling to find workers with the right skills. And with only few industries in the area - natural resources Tembec and CP Rail being part of the select few – Chapleau is looking to opportunities in other sectors. Talks of mining and renewable energy plans are currently underway.
Youth migration is also a problem for this small community, as most leave for postsecondary education and job opportunities elsewhere and don’t return. But with an active artist community, and future plans to develop both the mining and tourism industry, the hope is to attract more young families and new businesses to the area. Housing for family sized homes will need to be further developed, as currently there are either mostly low end or high end housing, offering little in between.
