The Fourth Industrial Revolution, or Industry 4.0, is introducing rapid technological advancements that will fundamentally alter wealth distribution, labour automation and the creation or reinforcement of monopolies. While it is not as internationally prominent as those of other Industry 4.0 leaders, Canada is making significant advancements to improve and develop its advanced manufacturing industry, which has the potential to actively participate in developing critical Industry 4.0 technologies and processes. As it integrates Industry 4.0 technologies into its manufacturing sector, Canada must balance sustainable resource management with technological advancement. Canada also has the responsibility to protect workers during the transition to Industry 4.0. Efforts to reskill and upskill workers should be enacted through corporate responsibility. Additionally, Canada must provide financial safeguards for workers who may be displaced by this transition and fund initiatives aimed at creating new employment opportunities. Further innovations to foster partnerships across Canadian industries would ensure the strength of Canada’s economy.
