As Alberta's economy continues to grow and diversify, so does the demand for skilled tradespeople. To help address the increased demand for apprentices and skilled journeypersons, Alberta's government is investing $25 million through Budget 2025 for the expansion and renovation of the W.J. Elliott building at Olds College, as part of a $63 million total investment over three years beginning in 2024.
Upon completion, this project will add more than 440 new seats for trades programming, as well as 100 seats for dual-credit trades programs, including Agricultural Equipment Technician, Heavy Equipment Technician, Welder and Landscape Horticulturist.
"The expansion of the W.J. Elliott building at Olds College will strengthen apprenticeship training and provide new learning opportunities in Alberta. By investing in apprenticeship education, we're creating more career opportunities for Albertans, strengthening our workforce and growing our economy while meeting labour market demand."
Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education
This expansion will increase apprenticeship learning opportunities for students by enhancing student spaces, ensuring more Albertans are equipped with the skills and training needed to meet the workforce demands of tomorrow.
"Helping students find their passion through dual credit programs is key to their future success. We are proud to support a strong dual-credit program here in Alberta, and we will continue to work with education partners to find new ways to grow this important program for the benefit of Alberta's students."
Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education
Since 1971, the W.J. Elliott building has served as a home to trades programming at Olds College. The renovations will include new collaborative student and staff spaces as well as adding lifting equipment, such as overhead cranes and vehicle lifts equipped with highway tractor alignment systems and wheel dynamometers, to improve trades programming. Construction is set to begin early this summer and is expected to be complete by spring 2027.
"The enhanced W.J. Elliott building will allow us to deliver a best-in-class experience for students and partners. With expanded classrooms, advanced labs and state-of-the-art equipment, Olds College will continue to meet the growing demand for skilled trades training while elevating the student experience and deepening industry collaboration."
Debbie Thompson, president and CEO, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology
Alberta's graduates are highly skilled and well-educated professionals; many go on to become leaders, innovators, business owners and educators in their industry. Targeted investment from Alberta's government is expanding access for students and creating modern learning environments, supporting graduates in building their future.
Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.
Quick facts
- Alberta has 59 designated trades, 47 of which have associated apprenticeship education programs regulated under the Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act.
- In Budget 2024, Alberta's government committed to investing $63 million over three years in the expansion and renovation of the W.J. Elliot building at Olds College.
- Of the total funding, 13 million was allocated in 2024.
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