Economic growth through skills development
Press Release
Sep 09, 2025
Alberta’s government is providing more than $5 million to boost growth and develop talent in Alberta’s fastest-growing industries.
Through the Alberta Industry Skills grant, four organizations in Alberta are being provided with more than $5 million. By prioritizing vital industries, Alberta’s government aims to fill urgent workforce gaps and equip workers with the skills needed to succeed in Alberta’s most high-demand fields.
In November 2024, Alberta’s government announced the launch of the Alberta Industry Skills grant to help fund industry-led training in high-demand sectors like aviation, aerospace, construction and technology. The grant aims to equip workers with industry-certified, transferable skills that meet the needs of Alberta’s growing economy. In each of these growing industries, labour shortages remain a persistent challenge that can be addressed by attracting the right people with the right training to do the job.
“Our government is committed to ensuring Albertans are equipped with the skills they need to succeed in today’s job market and tomorrow’s economy. Employers asked for more support in building sector-specific training that delivers real results for workers and businesses alike, and the Alberta Industry Skills grant program does exactly that.”
Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration
The grant program is structured specifically to partner with employers, industry associations and industry advocacy organizations to develop training solutions that benefit entire sectors. The four organizations and projects being awarded grants are:
Alberta Aviation Council – Aviation Futures Alberta, $1.5 million
This project will train 266 Albertans for a range of in-demand roles in Alberta’s aviation and aerospace sector. The project combines classroom instruction with hands-on industry internships, preparing participants for careers as flight attendants, ground handling personnel, customer service agents, air traffic controllers and drone operators. By addressing talent gaps and creating clear career pathways, this project supports the long-term sustainability of Alberta’s growing aviation industry while offering exciting opportunities to Albertans.
“We’re honoured that Alberta AAD has received this funding to help skill the next generation for careers in aviation. Through our partnership with the Alberta Aviation Future Alliance, we’re creating opportunities for Albertans to gain the skills, experience, and connections they need to thrive in these essential industries. Together, we’re building a stronger, more prepared workforce for Alberta’s future.”
Kendra Kincade, Chair, Alberta Aviation Aerospace & Defence
CWB Group – Expanding Non-Destructive Testing Certification, $1.45 million
This project will provide 120 individuals with training and certification in ultrasonic phased array non-destructive testing, a cutting-edge weld safety and quality inspection technology new to Alberta. With applications across construction, oil and gas and aerospace, this project equips participants to write the industry-recognized certification exam and meet rising demand for highly skilled workers in these critical sectors.
“Many of Alberta’s key industries that drive the economy rely on the practice of non-destructive testing to ensure the quality and safety of their manufactured products and infrastructure. The specialized NDT training we are able to provide through our program will advance participants’ skills in this crucial field and contribute to a stronger workforce today and into the future.”
Trent Konrad, vice-president, business development and sales, CWB Group
Technology Alberta – TechFIT Management Skills Training, $718,620
This project will train 200 Albertans working in Alberta’s technology sector with a focus on delivering essential non-technical skills such as management, finance, innovation development and marketing, helping small and emerging tech firms overcome growth challenges. By addressing key functional gaps, this project enables Alberta-based tech companies to scale and thrive in a competitive global market.
“We are thankful for this funding to support our TechFIT Management Skills program, which addresses the current skill gaps and creates more job opportunities for Albertans. This program focusses on developing skills for Alberta’s tech companies in the areas of management, finance, innovation development and marketing. The outcome is increased employability of personnel, and even more success for businesses and employees alike.”
Gail Powley, president, Technology Alberta
Thermal Insulation Association of Canada – Building Mechanical Insulation’s Sustainable Future, $1.5 million
This project will train 300 Albertans in foundational skills needed for long-term careers as heat and frost insulators. By developing a strong pipeline of qualified workers, this project addresses urgent labour shortages and supports the construction industry’s growing demand for skilled tradespeople in mechanical insulation.
“We are incredibly grateful to have received funding from the Alberta Industry Skills grant. This project is an exciting new opportunity to train Albertans for long-term success as heat and frost insulators and strengthen the mechanical insulation industry.”
Tristan Bertram, director of industry affairs, Thermal Insulation Association of Canada (TIAC) and Thermal Insulation Association of Alberta (TIAA)
Together, these projects are expected to train 886 Albertans, with a focus on developing transferable, industry-recognized skills.
As Alberta’s economy continues to grow and diversify, programs like the Alberta Industry Skills grant will play a crucial role in maintaining a strong, adaptable workforce and keeping Alberta competitive amidst rapidly changing market conditions and labour demands.
Quick facts
- The Alberta Industry Skills grant program is part of Alberta at Work’s Workforce Strategies grant initiative, which supports organizations with innovative solutions that help Albertans develop new skills and assist employers and industry in growing their workforce.
- Alberta at Work is a multi-year, cross-ministry provincial investment totalling more than $700 million towards helping Albertans develop new skills and grow their careers.
- BuildForce Canada projects Alberta’s construction industry will need 22,000 more workers by 2033 to keep pace with demand. The aviation, aerospace and technology sectors also face persistent job vacancies.
Related information
ILR4
