To help address the rising demand for skilled tradespeople, the Alberta government is investing even more in trades education. The CLRA is pleased to hear that the GoA has recently committed $1.5 million over three years to support Trade Winds to Success, an Indigenous-led non-profit that has helped over 3,000 Indigenous students pursue careers in the skilled trades since 2005.
This funding will help Trade Winds to Success continue offering valuable training programs; their Residential Construction Program is one such example, where students receive foundational training and hands-on experience in constructing eco-smart homes in Indigenous communities. Upon completion, students gain hours toward their first-year apprenticeship in Alberta’s carpenter program, guiding them toward successful, long-term careers in the trades. Over 150 participants are expected to enroll in this program over the next three years.
For Trade Winds to Success, this funding is seen as an important step in reconciliation. It provides the organization with the resources needed to continue advocating for Indigenous student success in the workforce. With the backing of Alberta’s government, the program will help meet the province’s growing need for skilled labour while offering Indigenous students the tools to build lasting careers and contribute to their communities and the economy. We agree with the Honourable Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education, that supporting Trade Winds is a win-win for both Indigenous workers and Alberta’s economy!
Finally, this investment decision aligns perfectly with CLRA’s latest digital campaign: “The Trades are for Everyone”. Since August, we’ve been promoting trades-related training events, educational resources, and supports by other organizations that are geared towards underrepresented groups in the trades – including women, veterans, and people of colour. Explore our website – or share it with someone thinking about entering the trades.
Read the full Trade Winds To Success announcement here.
