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EDMONTON — Alberta’s government is investing $300,000 into a new pilot program aimed at helping Indigenous youth pursue careers in the skilled trades through mentorship and community partnerships.
The Building Indigenous Mentorship and Pathways Pilot Program will be delivered by Building Trades of Alberta and is designed to connect Indigenous youth with apprenticeship opportunities, career guidance and industry employers.
The province says the initiative is intended to help address Alberta’s growing demand for skilled labour while creating more employment pathways for Indigenous communities.
As part of the program, Indigenous trades mentorship symposiums are planned for Calgary, Edmonton and Fort McMurray.
The events will bring together Indigenous leaders, educators and skilled trades employers to discuss training opportunities, mentorship and future job prospects in the trades sector.
Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney says the program is intended to strengthen community connections while helping young people access long-term careers.
Building Trades of Alberta says the funding will help establish mentorship networks and support future Indigenous workers entering the trades.
The program will also work with Indigenous recruitment agencies by providing mentorship resources and recruitment best practices aimed at guiding youth toward trades training and employment opportunities.
Officials say the initiative is focused on helping more Indigenous youth access stable careers closer to home while supporting Alberta’s workforce needs
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