The government of Alberta is offering a $5,000 refundable tax credit to attract skilled trades workers to the province, with a particular focus on bringing in workers from out of province. The goal is to assist employers in finding high-quality workers to address the ongoing need for skilled labor in the province. Chad Borne, owner of Borne Industries, emphasizes the importance of experienced workers in completing projects successfully, stating that the industry requires individuals with ten years or more of experience. Bridget Mearns, CEO of BILD Lethbridge, highlights the need for skilled labor in various trades, including finishing, carpentry, painting, and HVAC work, stressing that the industry is actively hiring and seeking competent workers.
Mearns also underscores the importance of providing housing for new workers, as a lack of accommodation can hinder the success of the province’s incentive program. She emphasizes the need to attract workers to smaller cities like Lethbridge and ensure that they choose to stay in these communities. Borne echoes this sentiment, stating that retaining new workers is crucial for the program’s success. He emphasizes the need for infrastructure to support workers and provide them with a stable environment for their families, ultimately encouraging them to stay in the province. While there is no way to guarantee that workers will remain in Alberta after receiving the tax credit, Borne emphasizes the importance of offering them the best opportunities and hoping that they see the value of employment in the province.
The current phase of Alberta’s incentive plan is in its third stage, focusing on attracting college students, out-of-province workers, and allocating a total budget of $2.5 million for this purpose. The government is actively seeking ways to address the ongoing need for skilled labor in the province and attract workers who can contribute to various industries, including construction, housing, and trades. The program aims to provide support to employers in their search for qualified workers and promote economic growth in Alberta by encouraging skilled individuals to move to the province. By offering incentives such as the tax credit, the government hopes to not only attract workers but also retain them in the long term, ultimately benefiting the local economy and communities across Alberta.
Overall, the government of Alberta’s incentive program for skilled trades workers aims to address the ongoing need for experienced labor in the province and support employers in finding high-quality employees. By offering a $5,000 tax credit and focusing on attracting workers from out of province, the program seeks to encourage individuals with the necessary skills and experience to relocate to Alberta. The emphasis on providing housing and infrastructure to support new workers, as well as retaining them in smaller cities like Lethbridge, is seen as crucial for the program’s success. With a total budget of $2.5 million allocated for attracting college students and out-of-province workers, the government is actively working to stimulate economic growth and address labor shortages in various industries.
