FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 26, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 26, 2023
Calgary Construction Association Welcomes Investment in Apprenticeships by Government of Alberta
Calgary, AB – The Calgary Construction Association (CCA) welcomes the recent announcement by the Government of Alberta to invest $12 million in the creation of 2,000 additional trade apprenticeship spots, on top of the additional $15 million previously announced.
The announcement comes at a crucial time, as the labour gap in the construction industry in Calgary continues to widen. Throughout this year, the CCA and industry partners have raised this issue of the labour gap, estimating that there are as many 4,000 vacancies in the construction industry in Calgary.
The shortage of skilled labour in the construction sector has been a pressing issue for the Calgary region for several years. With heightened population growth and ongoing infrastructure projects, the CCA notes that the demand for skilled tradespeople is critical. The Government of Alberta’s decision to invest in trade apprenticeships demonstrates a clear understanding of the importance of nurturing and expanding our skilled workforce to meet the growing demand.
The CCA believes that the additional $12 million investment is a significant step towards addressing the labour gap and will have far-reaching positive effects on our local construction industry. It will provide aspiring tradespeople with more opportunities to enter the workforce and gain valuable experience, ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the construction sector in Calgary.
“The Calgary Construction Association commends the Alberta government for its recognition of the labour issue and for its commitment to supporting our industry,” said Bill Black, President of the CCA. “This investment will not only help bridge the current labour gap but also empower our local workforce, boost economic growth, and strengthen the construction industry’s capacity to undertake essential projects in our community.”
The CCA believes that initiatives like this will not only benefit apprentices but also encourage more individuals to pursue careers in the trades. With an aging workforce and the retirement of many skilled tradespeople, attracting and training the next generation of workers is essential for the future of our industry.
The Association is eager to collaborate with the Government of Alberta and industry stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these apprenticeship programs. Together, we can develop innovative strategies to recruit, train, and retain skilled workers, ultimately making Calgary a hub for construction excellence.
For more information:
Frano Cavar
Director of Government Relations, Calgary Construction Association
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