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By rdnewsNOW Staff

BUDGET 2025

New grant stream to fund apprenticeship training under Alberta unions

Apr 25, 2025 | 4:31 PM

If passed, Budget 2025 will create a new grant program designed to empower unions to offer additional apprenticeship training in high demand programs.

There is $15 million allocated for the program, to be distributed equally over three years. The government says this is the first partnership of its kind between it and union partners.

“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,” commented Rajan Sawhney, minister of advanced education. “By forging new partnerships with unions, we are working together to address rising demand for the skilled tradespeople who build and maintain our province. I look forward to continuing our work with unions to address labour market needs while supporting working Albertans.”

This new funding is predicted to open 650 new apprenticeship seats per year. All seats funded by Advanced Education will be open to the general public who meet eligibility requirements.

“Trade unions are essential partners in building a job-ready workforce that drives Alberta’s economy forward. This investment will help more Albertans get the skills they need to succeed in high-demand jobs across the province,” said Matt Jones, minister of jobs, economy and trade.

Union training providers offer high quality training, often at a lower cost than other providers such as post-secondary institutions, government representatives say.

Chris Waples, director of education for UA Local 488, said, “The UA Local 488 extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Alberta and its leadership for its commitment to strengthening the province’s apprenticeship system. This funding represents a significant step in supporting union training centres as essential partners in developing a skilled and resilient workforce. 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.”

Invitations to provide a proposal for grant funding will be distributed to Alberta union training centres that are recognized to deliver apprenticeship training, and/or labour unions directly involved in Alberta’s skilled trades sector.