The designation of the Pacific Link pipeline as a project of national interest, alongside other recent commitments, signals growing momentum for major projects across Canada.
Last month, the Canada Investment Summit, announced nearly $500 billion in new commitments across sectors including infrastructure, energy and technology. These commitments will drive real economic growth, and Alberta’s construction employers are ready to deliver the projects that make it happen.
This level of investment reflects global confidence in Canada’s economic strength and will help support long-term growth and opportunity. It is reinforced by new federal measures aimed at improving productivity and encouraging capital investment. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the new Productivity Mega Deduction, which will let businesses deduct the full cost of a wider range of assets right away. The total tax savings do not increase, but they arrive sooner, which helps project owners justify new work. For Alberta’s construction sector, immediate expensing lowers the after-tax cost of investing and can help project owners move large energy and infrastructure work forward.
Investment is only one part of the equation. Projects also need predictable approvals and a skilled workforce to move from announcement to construction. Alberta’s construction employers are facing growing vacancies in trades roles as demand increases and many experienced workers near retirement. As the collective bargaining agent for 170 employers who hire unionized labour, CLRA is focused on building a strong local workforce through education, training and mentorship. CLRA’s Seed vs. Sod strategy helps grow Alberta’s own workforce while meeting project needs today. One recent example is the Preferred Project Agreement for NAIT’s Advanced Skills Centre, which uses a “worksite is a classroom” approach to give apprentices steady on‑the‑job training and help them complete their programs. Major projects such as Pacific Link will require both investment and a skilled workforce to move from planning to construction.
CLRA works with industry, educators and government partners to attract talent, support apprentices and strengthen employer capacity. This includes initiatives like CLRA’s Build Your Future in Alberta campaign and the funding provided through CLRA and its Workforce Development Trust partners.
“Alberta’s construction employers are ready to build,” said Joe McFadyen, President, CLRA. “Our members employ Alberta’s skilled building tradespeople, with the expertise and track record to deliver complex energy and infrastructure projects. With major project opportunities such as Pacific Link moving forward, we are ready to work with project owners and government to turn these commitments into projects on the ground and good jobs for Albertans.”
