Alberta’s government is moving forward with investments in job training that will support Albertans on their career path, providing them with the skills needed today and into the future.
In a press release on April 19, the provincial government said that Alberta at Work aims to strengthen Alberta’s labour market and that it will get more Albertans working in jobs that support their dreams and improve their lives.
“By investing in Albertans at every stage in their career journey, we are not only helping people reach their full potential, we are building an engaged, productive and diverse workforce that meets employers’ needs and creates the economy of tomorrow,” said Jason Kenney, premier.
As part of Alberta at Work, Alberta’s government is investing an additional $23 million over three years in the Canada-Alberta Job Grant. This program helps employers hire Alberta workers, and helps businesses develop the skills they need to grow and diversify. Both unemployed and current employees can benefit if employers are eligible.
An additional $41 million over three years will support Alberta’s Training for Work programs, which are available to service providers working with Albertans who are unemployed or marginally employed. It also supports people receiving income support and under-represented groups that could include women, Indigenous people and newcomers to Canada.
“Through these critical investments, Albertans will develop job-ready skills and find new opportunities to get their dream job. Employers will find the workers they need. Alberta at Work shows our commitment to grow and diversify Alberta’s workforce, to ensure more people share in Alberta’s successful economic recovery,” said Kaycee Madu, minister of labour and immigration.
Through advanced education, a $235-million investment over three years will support targeted enrolment growth, new micro-credentials and work-integrated learning opportunities, apprenticeship education and additional support for students.
Alberta is also investing $20 million in 2022-23 through community and social services to develop innovative programs to help Albertans who have been unemployed for long periods build their skills and get back on their feet.
“This initiative is about ensuring all Albertans can be part of, and benefit from, our province’s economic recovery. By making targeted investments that increase seats in high-demand programs and working with industry to understand tomorrow’s labour demands, we are connecting students to fulfilling career paths that are key to Alberta’s economic growth,” said Demetrios Nicolaides, minister of advanced education.
Program development will happen throughout the spring and summer, and Albertans will be able to access these programs in the fall. These new programs and services will support everyday Albertans and people who have disabilities and other barriers in securing employment.