One of the most pressing gaps in Canada’s labour market exists in the trade industry.
In fact, according to a study released this month by Statistics Canada (StatsCan), the national labour market is experiencing “downward pressure” resulting from a recent wave of retirements among baby boomers (those born between 1955 and 1965).
This results in Canada’s labour force participation rate falling to its lowest in 20 years (65% in 2021, 2022, and 2023).
Accordingly, at both the federal and provincial levels, Canada is always looking to attract skilled workers who can help expand the workforce in the region.
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While Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is taking its own steps to address these immediate shortages, Alberta has introduced some financial incentives to bring them to the province.
What is Alberta offering skilled immigrants working in trade?
In April 2024, the Alberta government launches its Alberta Is Calling program. This program will provide a one-time refundable tax credit of $5000 to 2,000 eligible skilled tradespeople.
To be eligible for this program, candidates must meet certain criteria. These criteria include:
- They must be 18 years of age or above at the time of applying
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Move to Alberta between May 1 and December 31, 2024
- Be a tax resident of Alberta on December 31, 2024
- Moved to Alberta between May 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024
- Must be a resident of Alberta for at least 12 continuous months at the time of application
For more information about this program, including full eligibility criteria, visit the Alberta government’s webpage.
About the Business Industry in Alberta
The trade industry in Alberta has long had a severe worker shortage. Therefore, trade careers are one of the most sought-after occupations throughout the province.
In fact, nine different trade industry occupations are listed as being in high demand by the Alberta government. They are as follows, listed in no particular order.
Comment: Each occupation will have its National Occupation Classification (NOC) 2021 code next to it.
- Construction manager (NOC 70010)
- Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers (NOC: 72410)
- Plumber (NOC: 72300)
- Electrical and Electronics Engineers (NOC: 21310)
- Civil Engineers (NOC: 21300)
- Engineering Manager (NOC: 20010)
- Automotive and heavy truck and equipment parts installers and servicers (NOC: 74203)
- Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians (NOC: 22310)
- Electrical Mechanics (NOC: 72422)
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Prospective Canadian immigrants interested in learning more about the business industry in Alberta can visit the provincial government’s dedicated business website.
This site can provide interested persons with the following important information:
- Things to know about apprenticeship services in Alberta’s trade industry
- How to Become a Certified Tradesperson in Alberta
- Which businesses qualify as specified businesses across the province
Job Vacancies in Alberta
According to StatsCan data from May 2024, Alberta has a very high number of job vacancies, the third-highest of any province in Canada (behind Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia).
- Ontario: 204,180
- Quebec: 130,735
- British Columbia: 102,720
- Alberta: 76,500
This means that newcomers to Alberta, whether in or out of the trade industry, may have better employment opportunities than those in other Canadian provinces. For more information on employment and other important aspects of life in Alberta, click here.
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