Toronto is known for tourist attractions like the CN Tower, sports teams like the Maple Leafs, Blue Jays and Raptors, and its host of entertainment and cultural venues. But did you know that the Toronto tech industry is a globally renowned hub of innovation? From fintech (financial technology) to health tech, companies span a wide range of sectors, making for a very diverse scene.
Are you considering moving for a job in technology? Here are some facts you’ll want to know about the city’s technological industry.
Toronto Tech Industry Is Canada’s Largest
The largest in the nation and the third largest in North America, the city’s technology sector includes 24,000 companies and 289,000 workers — and they’re growing. In fact, the number of individuals working in tech-specific occupations has increased more than 40 per cent over the last five years. That is actually the highest growth in North America. These workers include software developers and programmers, computer support, database and systems, computer information and systems managers, technology engineering-related professionals, sales, administrative and office support, business operations and finance, and marketing.
Companies Hiring for Tech Jobs in Toronto Include Well-Known Names
Major tech companies are headquartered in the city. Of course, you’ll recognize Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Meta, Pinterest and Shopify. But it doesn’t end there. Many other companies are now investing in Toronto as well. In 2021, Reddit, for example, announced plans to set up an office and hire for engineering-related and other service roles. In that same year, Wayfair also announced the opening of an engineering office, and said it is planning to hire roles such as software engineers, UX designers and data scientists.
Moving for a Job in Artificial Intelligence (AI)? You’ve Come to the Right Place
If you’re considering moving for a job or training in AI, Canada’s biggest city also has you covered. Did you know that as far back as 1983, Toronto (and Canada) supported AI? That’s when the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) first introduced the Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Society program. Fast forward to today, and CIFAR is leading the federal government’s $440 million Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy. As the world’s first national AI strategy focused on supporting research and developing talent, it’s based in — you guessed it — Toronto!
There are also 273 AI firms in the region, nearly half of all the AI firms in Canada. Beyond firms, 45 companies have invested in AI research labs across the county, with major labs such as RBC’s Borealis AI and Samsung AI Centre in TO. Samsung actually chose Toronto to host only one of only three global AI research labs. That’s quite the honour. ETSY, meanwhile, picked the location for its newest Machine Learning Center of Excellence.
Becoming Part of the Toronto Tech Industry
At Centennial College, you can choose from numerous programs in the School of Engineering Technology and Applied Science (SETAS). As the college’s largest academic school, it offers four departments: Applied Biological and Environmental Sciences (ABES), Information and Communication Engineering Technology (ICET), Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Technology (AMAT), and Sustainable Design and Renewable Energy (SDRE), which includes the Department of Mathematics and Physics.
As you study, you can also take advantage of real-world experiences and networking opportunities in the numerous companies and Toronto’s many incubators, accelerators and coworking spaces. There are over 2,000 technology start-ups spread across the region, creating vast opportunities for students and graduates.
By Izabela Shubair