Alberta's government is investing $1 million through Budget 2025 to support the planning phase of an expansion of skilled trades and apprenticeship education at Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP). This funding will increase apprenticeship training opportunities in northern Alberta and help build a stronger workforce for the future.
As Alberta's economy continues to grow and diversify, the demand for skilled trades workers is reaching record highs. By expanding apprenticeship education closer to home for northern communities, Alberta's government is helping ensure that northern Albertans have access to the training they need, right where it's needed most.
"Creating opportunities to study close to home is crucial to ensure all Albertans who wish to pursue a post-secondary education have the option to do so. Through this funding, we're supporting Northwestern Polytechnic in preparing for expanding skilled trades training offerings in northern Alberta. This expansion would allow more skilled tradespeople to become certified and therefore, would benefit the future of Alberta's workforce."
Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education
This new funding will support planning for a new skilled trades training centre on NWP's Grande Prairie campus. Designed to support regional workforce development, the facility will feature six industry-focused training shops in areas such as welding, refrigeration, construction, and specialized short courses or micro-credentials.
"Skilled trades are the backbone of Alberta's economy, and northern communities like Grande Prairie need accessible, high-quality training, modern facilities, and graduates who are ready to meet evolving industry needs. This expansion will help support a competitive and resilient region by preparing the next generation of tradespeople to learn, work and grow right where they are most needed."
Shawna Miller, chair, Board of Governors, Northwestern Polytechnic
The Spartan Controls Northwestern Centre for Industrial Automation & Innovation at NWP's Grande Prairie campus previously received $11.3 million from the province in 2023. Now open, the centre serves as a regional hub for innovation, advanced technology training and collaboration with industry partners.
Expanding apprenticeship opportunities through projects like the Spartan Controls Northwestern Centre for Industrial Automation & Innovation ensures more skilled tradespeople can train and become certified in northern Alberta. The centre offers hands-on training in power engineering, instrumentation and industrial automation - fields that are in high demand across northern Alberta and beyond.
"With demand for skilled workers at an all-time high, this investment allows NWP to plan for an expansion that directly addresses workforce needs in northwestern Alberta. By creating purposeful pathways for apprenticeships and trades education, we're helping students build rewarding careers and ensuring industries have the talent they need to thrive."
Vanessa Sheane, president and CEO, Northwestern Polytechnic
By investing in modern infrastructure, expanding access to apprenticeship training, and supporting innovation, Alberta's government is providing students with the supports and high-quality education they need to meet the workforce demands of tomorrow.
Quick facts
- As of May 27, Alberta has 70,478 individual apprentices in 74,220 apprenticeships. This is an all-time high for the province.
- Alberta has 59 designated trades, 47 of which have associated apprenticeship education programs regulated under the Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act.
- In Alberta, apprenticeship programs are offered through post-secondary institutions, union training providers and other training institutions across the province.
Related information
