Alberta is launching a first-of-its-kind grant program that will empower trade unions to deliver apprenticeship training, with $15 million in funding over three years announced in Budget 2025.
The initiative aims to create 650 new apprenticeship seats annually in high-demand trades programs, addressing workforce shortages in skilled trades sectors across the province.
“This unprecedented, new grant program will be the first partnership of its kind between Alberta’s government and union partners,” Advanced Education Minister Rajan Sawhney said.
The government noted that union training providers typically offer high-quality training opportunities at lower costs than other providers, including post-secondary institutions. This approach is intended to maximize the creation of new apprenticeship seats with available funding.
“Trades unions play an integral role in skilled trades education in Alberta, offering excellent facilities and instruction for union members and the general public alike,” Sawhney said. “By forging new partnerships with unions, we are working together to address rising demand for the skilled tradespeople who build and maintain our province.”
Open to all qualified applicants
All apprenticeship seats funded through the program will be open to members of the general public who meet eligibility requirements, not just union members.
The government will distribute funding by inviting proposals from Alberta union training centres that are recognized to deliver apprenticeship training and from labour unions directly involved in supporting Alberta’s skilled trades sector.
Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade, emphasized the economic importance of the initiative.
“Trade unions are essential partners in building a job-ready workforce that drives Alberta’s economy forward,” Jones said. “This investment will help more Albertans get the skills they need to succeed in high-demand jobs across the province.”
Building on pilot program
The announcement builds on a pilot program launched in April 2024, when the government invested $350,000 to support the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 955 Trust Fund in delivering training for the crane and hoisting equipment operator apprenticeship program.
That initiative marked the first time a union in Alberta’s history received government funding for apprenticeship training.
Chris Waples, director of education at UA Local 488, welcomed the expanded funding.
“This funding represents a significant step in supporting union training centres as essential partners in developing a skilled and resilient workforce,” Waples said. “With this investment, the Alberta Pipe Trades College is well-positioned to expand training capacity and deliver high-quality, industry-driven education to future Alberta tradespeople.”
Annual funding under the new program will be capped at $5 million per year through 2028.
