Nourish our education advantage to ensure Alberta remains a brain powerhouse and a leader in the knowledge economy.

As our economy continues to adapt to new developments in technology and automation, Alberta’s labour force needs to be properly equipped. By building a robust labour force with the skills required for the future, we are building resiliency for business to thrive. The key is to adopt policies and actions to close the talent and skills gap vital to position Alberta for the rapidly changing global economy.

Actions:

Co-ordinate all stakeholders

Close collaboration between business, government and education is crucial to identify and quickly respond to labour needs that are affecting key sectors of the economy. We need to establish a close link between government policy and the needs of companies to stimulate investment and economic growth.

Identify opportunities and focus educational resources

Alberta has an excellent education ecosystem of universities, colleges and polytechnics. The province has the power to focus these programs to provide the necessary training to nourish our key industries and prepare for new employment opportunities.

Invest in training, reskilling and childcare

Jobs require increasingly complex skills which the current workforce may not yet possess. To ensure all Albertans can develop the necessary skills, we should encourage investment in training, reskilling and childcare:

• Encourage workplace training programs 
• Boost Indigenous workforce participation 
• Promote skilled trades 
• Expand access to affordable childcare 

Support focused immigration

Achieving the critical mass of skilled labour required to grow certain segments may mean supplementing Alberta’s labour force with talent from outside Alberta. Programs like The Municipal Nominee Program has the potential to help address skills deficiencies in sectors that matter to Alberta.