The Government of Alberta is making another major investment in skilled trades.

The province is contributing over $12.4 million to create an additional 2,000 apprenticeship spaces to help meet future labour demands.

This funding builds on the previous $15 million, three year investment for 1,000 apprenticeship spaces announced earlier this year.

The Government says this funding is intended to help meet the growing demand for highly skilled tradespeople across many sectors, and in response to feedback from post-secondaries and industry.

“With labour forecasts projecting continued growth well into the future, Alberta’s government remains committed to ensuring that there is space for everyone who chooses to pursue a rewarding career in the trades,” says Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education.

“Apprenticeship programs are an essential part of Alberta’s education system,” adds Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education.

“Our government remains committed to expanding apprenticeship education and promoting its parity of esteem with other post-secondary education.”

This year the province has invested a total of $54.4 million in apprenticeship spaces and skilled trades development.