From homes to highways, skilled tradespeople shape Alberta's landscape. Journeypersons play a pivotal role in upholding and advancing industry standards, and becoming an apprentice is the first step to a skilled trades career. That is why Alberta’s government 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.
This unprecedented, new grant program will be the first partnership of its kind between Alberta’s government and union partners, reflecting the province’s commitment to supporting working Albertans and meeting the labour market needs of today and the future.
“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. 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.”
The new funding for union training providers to deliver apprenticeship training is expected to open 650 new apprenticeship seats per year. All apprenticeship seats funded by Advanced Education will be open to the general public who meet the eligibility requirements.
“Trade unions are essential partners in building a job-ready workforce that drives Alberta’s economy forward. This investment will help more Albertans get the skills they need to succeed in high-demand jobs across the province.”
Alberta’s government recognizes the value of apprenticeship education programs and their impact on the province’s economic growth and is addressing workforce needs by making strategic investments that increase apprenticeship seats and programs in high-demand sectors.
Union training providers offer high-quality training opportunities, often at a lower cost than other providers, including post-secondary institutions. This grant program will ensure taxpayer dollars are used in a way that maximizes value to create as many new apprenticeship seats in high-demand trades as possible.
“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. 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.”
Invitations to provide a proposal for grant funding will be provided 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.
Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.
Quick facts
- Funding will go towards apprenticeship seats generated from union training providers.
- Funding is capped at up to $5 million per year, for three years.
- In April 2024, Alberta’s government announced a pilot funding investment of $350,000 to support the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 955 Trust Fund to deliver training for the Crane and Hoisting Equipment Operator – Mobile Crane Operator apprenticeship program.
- IUOE Local 955 was the first union in Alberta’s history to receive funding in this manner.