‘We are working together to address rising demand for the skilled tradespeople who build and maintain our province’
The Alberta government is teaming up with labour unions to equip workers with the skills they need to succeed in the workplace.
The province is investing $15 million over the next three years to create a new grant program that will empower unions to offer apprenticeship training in high-demand programs.
“Trades unions play an integral role in skilled trades education in Alberta, offering excellent facilities and instruction for union members and the general public alike,” said Rajan Sawhney, minister of advanced education. “By forging new partnerships with unions, we are working together to address rising demand for the skilled tradespeople who build and maintain our province. I look forward to continuing our work with unions to address labour market needs while supporting working Albertans.”
Only 34.9% of Canadian businesses plan to provide staff training in classrooms, workshops, or online over the next 12 months, according to a previous report from Statistics Canada (StatCan).
The new funding for union training providers to deliver apprenticeship training is expected to open 650 new apprenticeship seats per year, according to the Alberta government.
To become an apprentice in Alberta, the government requires that aspiring participants meet the following requirements:
Eligibility requirements:
And
Entrance requirements:
“You can register as an apprentice and start learning on the job before you meet the entrance requirements, but you must meet them during your first year of apprenticeship,” said the Alberta government.
Alberta will send invitations to provide a proposal for grant funding to Alberta union training centres that are recognized to deliver apprenticeship training, and/or labour unions directly involved in supporting Alberta’s skilled trades sector, according to the government.
“The UA Local 488 extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Alberta and its leadership for its commitment to strengthening the province’s apprenticeship system,” said Chris Waples, director of education, UA Local 488. “This funding represents a significant step in supporting union training centres as essential partners in developing a skilled and resilient workforce. With this investment, the Alberta Pipe Trades College is well-positioned to expand training capacity and deliver high-quality, industry-driven education to future Alberta tradespeople.”
Previously, the Liberal Party of Canada unveiled a plan to offer an $8,000 apprenticeship grant for registered apprentices, along with expanded investments in training infrastructure, to address skills shortages in the trades sector.
Employers who are quick to hire journeymen may overlook the benefits of supporting apprenticeships, noted Randstad.
“Apprenticeship opportunities can create a strong talent pipeline for employers willing to train workers on the job—and fuels economic growth that relies on a new generation of skilled tradespeople,” it said.
Pursuing apprenticeship programs work “can provide valuable hands-on experience,” enhance workers' skill set and give you a competitive advantage in the job market, according to Robert Half.
