Shaping the Future of Work—Intergenerational Growing Pains and Gains in Canada’s Workplaces

Abstract This chapter discusses the importance of intergenerational approaches to social, workforce, and economic challenges in Canadian workplaces. While policy spheres are gradually recognizing the need for an intergenerational mindset, workplaces have yet to fully embrace it. Therefore, this chapter explores three case studies of current workplace programs engaging diverse age groups to present a better understanding of the benefits and barriers these programs face. Using Challenge Factory’s Broken Talent Escalator® model, the findings point to recognition that generations work together but few organizations explicitly tie intergenerational initiatives or metrics to business outcomes. Even in Canadian workplaces with strong commitment to diversity, age is often not considered. The lack of specifically age-aware initiatives within Canada’s workspaces reflects the challenge of addressing workplace ageism. If it isn’t recognized, it can’t be addressed.