Alberta is intensifying efforts to attract skilled tradespeople from across Canada to fill burgeoning job vacancies essential to the province’s economic growth.
The “Alberta is Calling” initiative, now in its third phase, targets skilled workers in British Columbia, Québec, and Ontario with a strategic campaign aimed at bolstering Alberta’s labour market.
The campaign, backed by a $5,000 refundable tax credit known as the Alberta is Calling Moving Bonus, seeks to draw tradespeople to contribute to the province’s housing and infrastructure projects. “Alberta’s economic growth offers substantial opportunities for skilled workers. Our campaign and Moving Bonus reflect our commitment to attracting top talent essential for our crucial sectors, supporting our expanding infrastructure,” said Matt Jones, Alberta’s Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade.
This initiative comes as Alberta continues to lead in investment and job creation, boasting the highest per capita investments and weekly earnings among Canadian provinces. With a GDP growth projected to outpace the national average at 2.9% this year, the demand for skilled labor is higher than ever.
Alberta’s residential and non-residential construction sectors are poised for robust growth over the next decade, with an anticipated addition of 14,000 workers by 2033 according to BuildForce Canada. This projection aligns with significant investments like the Dow Path2Zero project in Fort Saskatchewan, highlighting the critical need for skilled tradespeople.
Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education, emphasized the campaign’s importance, stating, “The third phase of Alberta is Calling is crucial for attracting the skilled trades workers our economy needs. The Moving Bonus not only complements our investments in trades education but also offers a significant incentive for workers considering Alberta as their new home.”
The campaign will also promote Alberta’s attractive living conditions, including high wages, low taxes, affordable housing, and vibrant communities. “Alberta offers tremendous career opportunities in skilled trades, and with projects like Air Products and Dow ramping up, it’s an opportune time to relocate here,” added Terry Parker, executive director of the Building Trades of Alberta.
Scheduled to run from May 1 to July 2, 2024, the campaign will cost approximately $2.5 million and includes targeted advertising across a variety of platforms, from post-secondary campuses to social media. The Alberta is Calling website provides further details on the eligibility for the Moving Bonus, aiming to support 2,000 trades workers in their relocation to Alberta.