Premier Jason Kenney. (Government of Alberta)

By David Opinko/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Province announces $319M to support Alberta jobs and training

Apr 19, 2022 | 5:14 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Alberta Government is announcing additional funding to help Albertans get back to work and in the careers they want.

Under the Alberta at Work initiative, Premier Jason Kenney says the province is contributing approximately $319 million over three years to strengthen the labour market.

“By investing in Albertans at every stage in their career journey, we are not only helping people reach their full potential, we are building an engaged, productive and diverse workforce that meets employers’ needs and creates the economy of tomorrow.”

Extra funding is being provided in the following areas:

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The province is investing an extra $23 million over three years.

The program helps employers to hire Alberta workers and helps businesses to develop the skills they need to grow and diversify.

Both unemployed and current employees can benefit if employers are eligible.

Training for Work

An extra $41 million over three years will support programs under this banner.

They are available to service providers working with Albertans who are unemployed or marginally employed. It also assists people receiving income support and under-represented groups that could include women, Indigenous peoples, and newcomers to Canada.

Minister of Labour and Immigration Kaycee Madu says this will go a long way in assisting workers and businesses alike.

“Through these critical investments, Albertans will develop job-ready skills and find new opportunities to get their dream job. Employers will find the workers they need. Alberta at Work shows our commitment to grow and diversify Alberta’s workforce, to ensure more people share in Alberta’s successful economic recovery.”

Advanced Education

$235 million is being invested over three years to support targeted enrollment growth, new micro-credentials, work-integrated learning opportunities, apprenticeship education, and additional support for students.

Minister of Advanced Education Demetrios Nicholaides says this initiative is about ensuring Albertans can be part of, and benefit from, the province’s economic recovery.

“By making targeted investments that increase seats in high-demand programs and working with industry to understand tomorrow’s labour demands, we are connecting students to fulfilling career paths that are key to Alberta’s economic growth.”

Community and Social Services

A $20 million investment in 2022-23 will help to develop programs to help Albertans who have been unemployed for long periods to build their skills and get back on their feet.

Program development will happen throughout the spring and summer, becoming available in the fall.

Minister of Community and Social Services Jason Luan says these investments will help everyday Albertans and those with disabilities or other barriers to finding employment.

“Alberta’s government has always been the social safety net for Albertans and those benefits will always be there for the most vulnerable. But as part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan, we also want to empower Albertans and help them reach their full potential during this economic boom.”