Alberta’s government is supporting the next generation of skilled trades workers with the launch of the Alberta Trades Discovery Centre, an industry-led initiative that gives junior high and high school students hands-on exposure to careers in the skilled trades before they graduate.
The centre will provide a dedicated, professional space where students can explore construction trades, learn directly from experienced tradespeople and discover what they're good at and what they enjoy, helping them make informed choices about high school courses, post-secondary pathways and future careers. The centre is expected to open in Calgary in fall 2026, with plans to expand to other areas of the province as demand grows.
“Alberta’s prosperity depends on a strong, skilled workforce. The Alberta Trades Discovery Centre will help students see the real opportunities available in the trades, while complementing the world-class training offered by our post-secondary institutions.”
The Alberta Trades Discovery Centre will be governed by a board with representatives from Alberta’s construction sector, including the Alberta Construction Association, Building Trades of Alberta, Construction Labour Relations Alberta, and OpenCircle, reflecting a shared commitment to growing the province's skilled trades workforce.
“This is a professional environment where experiences are developed and facilitated directly by seasoned trades professionals. By proving this concept in Calgary, we are building a sustainable model that honors the dignity of the trades and empowers young Albertans to build both our province and their own successful futures.”
Alberta’s government remains committed to championing the skilled trades to help meet the workforce demands of today and tomorrow, and make sure Albertans have access to rewarding, well-paying careers close to home.
Quick facts
- Alberta’s government is investing $6 million over three years towards the initial implementation and operation of the Alberta Trades Discovery Centre.
- Students gain hands-on exposure to skilled trades at “try-a-trade” bays in an authentic work-like setting.
- The Alberta Trades Discovery Centre focuses on career exploration, not apprenticeship training.
- Alberta’s industrial, commercial and institutional construction sector employs more than 250,000 Albertans and will require over 59,000 additional workers in the next decade.
- Alberta Trades Discovery Centre Board Members, include:
- Warren Singh, chair, and executive director Alberta Construction Association
- Terry Parker, executive director, Building Trades of Alberta
- Joe McFayden, president, Construction Labour Relations Alberta
- Ross Undershute, president, OpenCircle