September 5, 2024 Edmonton, Alberta Employment and Social Development Canada
The demand for skilled tradespeople is expected to remain strong as the economy continues to grow. Smart investments are needed to support Canadians in taking up apprenticeship training now, and to help them start careers in the skilled trades. That's why the Government of Canada is making investments to attract more young people, women and other equity-deserving groups to these rewarding and in-demand jobs.
Today, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, Randy Boissonnault, announced more than $1.1 million in funding for three projects under the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy's Investments in Training Equipment stream. These projects, which result from a call for proposals launched in 2023, bolster training through the purchase of equipment and materials.
- Northern Alberta Institute of Technology is receiving $886,683 to purchase equipment for apprentices in the construction, manufacturing and transportation sectors.
- Portage College is receiving $131,979 to acquire equipment for the welding trade, such as components for different booths and units.
- One Beauty Grande Prairie Inc. is receiving $149,980 to upgrade its training curriculum with equipment for the hairstylist trade.
Funding under the Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy's Investments in Training Equipment stream aims to improve the quality of training for apprentices in Red Seal trades. This funding stream was formerly part of the Union Training and Innovation Program.
The Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy is the Government's response to the skilled trades workforce's most pressing needs, including addressing barriers to people entering the skilled trades, addressing the housing crisis and increasing net-zero construction.
The Government of Canada invests nearly $1 billion annually in apprenticeship supports through grants, loans, tax credits, Employment Insurance benefits during in-school training, project funding, and support for the Red Seal Program to help build a robust skilled trades workforce for the future that is inclusive, certified and productive.
