Alberta’s economy is rapidly growing and diversifying. More jobs continue to be created in the province, although some industries are still facing labour shortages. To create more opportunities for students and ensure students have the skills to meet labour market demands and begin good-paying careers, apprenticeship seats are needed to support students entering the skilled trades.
Through Budget 2024, Alberta’s government would invest an additional $24 million per year over the next three years to create 3,200 apprenticeship seats at 11 post-secondary institutions across the province. The new investment would bring the total funding through the Apprenticeship Learning Grant for the 2024-25 academic year to $78 million.
“When students join the skilled trades, they are entering well-paying jobs and starting a bright future in our province. Investing in apprenticeship education will supply Albertans with in-demand skills, nurture homegrown talent and support our labour market with world-class skilled tradespeople who keep our economy moving.”
Apprenticeship education is an affordable post-secondary option for learners. In addition to the job opportunities available upon completion, sponsored apprentices are employed and paid wages for more than 75 per cent of their program.
The Apprenticeship Learning Grant provides supplemental funding to support the delivery of apprenticeship classroom seats. The funding is intended to address demand throughout the academic year. In 2023-24, the government provided $54 million to 11 public post-secondary institutions through the grant.
“Budget 2024 demonstrates our commitment to supporting Alberta’s economic growth by addressing the demand for skilled workers. This strategic investment not only aligns with our economic diversification goals but also ensures that our workforce remains competitive, contributing to the long-term prosperity of our province."
The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum estimates that Canada will face a gap of more than 60,000 registered apprentices by 2025.
Currently there are about 61,000 registered apprentices in Alberta, a 28 per cent increase over the number of apprentices who progressed through Alberta's system last year. In the last 12 months, more than 24,000 apprentices were registered. This increase in registration has led to a demand for more apprenticeship seats.
“SAIT is encouraged by the government's ongoing investment in apprentice education throughout the province. A skilled workforce is key to Alberta’s economic well-being and to ensuring a prosperous future. By increasing access to world-class trades training, this funding will advance careers in areas critical to Alberta’s growth.”
Quick facts
- Eleven post-secondary institutions deliver apprenticeship training in Alberta.
- The Apprenticeship Learning Grant supports specific apprenticeship education programs, based on demand.
- All 11 post-secondary institutions offering apprentice education programs receive a portion of the Apprenticeship Learning Grant for the academic year.
- Additional Apprenticeship Learning Grant funds are held in reserve to respond to seat demands throughout the year.
Learn more about apprenticeship and careers in the skilled trades at tradesecrets.alberta.ca.