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COVID-19 Updates: Taking steps to return to normal.
Alberta is taking the next step toward expanding the apprenticeship model of learning to new professions in priority industries.
Alberta’s government is inviting post-secondary institutions and industry groups to collaborate and submit proposals for new certificate and diploma programs that provide a majority of education through paid on-the-job mentorship. Approved program proposals will qualify for grant funding to support program design and implementation.
“I would like to invite employers and post-secondary institutions to work with us in developing new apprenticeships responsive to the current needs of Alberta’s economy. This new approach will allow students to develop the job-ready skills they need to be successful. An employer will provide mentorship support for their new hire while a partnering post-secondary institution will provide the necessary foundational learning. This will require us all to think differently about apprenticeships, and Alberta’s government is committed to providing the resources necessary to develop these new programs so students can learn and work right here at home.”
“Together, post-secondary institutions and industry partners will play an important role in promoting and adopting this innovative education model for students to develop the job skills needed to pursue fulfilling careers and support Alberta’s economy. We are excited to apply the work-integrated learning approach of apprenticeship-style education to new sectors and professions.”
“Expanding the apprenticeship model to include a partnership between institutions and industry gives students an opportunity to gain essential experience, while incentivizing employers through access to emerging talent.”
Expanding apprenticeship-style programs provides more opportunities for students to learn hands-on from experts in their field and apply their learning in real-world settings. By aligning new programs and work placements with Alberta’s priority sectors, we are supporting our recovery, stimulating job creation and providing employers opportunities to grow and develop their talent.
Expanding the apprenticeship model of learning to a wider range of occupations is a flagship initiative under the Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs strategy and responds to the recommendations of the Skills for Jobs Task Force.
The Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs strategy is a transformational vision and direction for Alberta’s higher education system, which will develop a highly skilled and competitive workforce, strengthen innovation and commercialization of research, and forge stronger relationships between employers and post-secondary institutions.