Alberta launches unprecedented program to support union training

Key Takeaways:

• Alberta’s government is investing $15 million over three years to launch a grant program that enables trades unions to provide apprenticeship training in high-demand trades.
• The initiative is expected to create 650 new apprenticeship seats annually, accessible to the general public who meet eligibility requirements, thus expanding workforce development opportunities.
• This is the first formal partnership of its kind between the Alberta government and unions, aimed at delivering cost-effective, high-quality training while addressing labour market shortages in the skilled trades.

The Whole Story:

Alberta’s government is creating a new grant program through Budget 2025 that empowers trades unions to provide additional apprenticeship training. 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.

The 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,” said Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Education. “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.

Officials stated that union training providers offer high-quality training opportunities, often at a lower cost than other providers, including post-secondary institutions. They argued that the 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.

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.

“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,” said CHris Waples, director of education, UA Local 488. “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.”