Alberta boosting funding for job training, employment services

A sign for help wanted is pictured in a business window in Ottawa, July 12, 2022. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick)

The Government of Alberta has increased funding for employment services and development.

Budget 2025 includes $185 million over three years to expand employment supports for Albertan workers and to help employers find and train staff.

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Alberta Career and Employment Information Services connects workers with job and training resources, such as career counselling, placements and work-specific courses to reduce barriers to employment.

Data from Statistics Canada showed Alberta’s unemployment rate jumped in March from 6.7 per cent to 7.1 per cent -- the third-highest rate in the country that month.

The province said the money is expected to help more than 820,000 Albertans find and keep jobs this year.

More than $20 million will go toward adding new simulated worksite locations, which offer training and hands-on experience.

“These work sites replicate real workplace conditions for training and skill development,” said Jason Nixon, minister of seniors, community and social services at a press conference on Wednesday.

“Albertans can get paid, get hands-on experience and training from local employers from various industries. The setup helps learners practice tasks safely and prepares them for stable employment.”

There are currently five such worksites in the province.

More information on training and employment services can be found on the Government of Alberta website.