The YYCTrades program has been in operation for nearly a quarter of a century, with many of the graduates established in various roles within Alberta’s workforce. How many clients has the program served in that time?
Since its inception in 2001, the YYCTrades Training program, formerly known as Oil and Gas Training Programs (OGTP), has trained over 2,500 clients. This figure reflects its long-term impact, with an annual intake of just over 100 participants, growing steadily to meet Alberta’s workforce needs. We had a conversation with YYCTrades Operations Director, Bob Khan, to delve into the impact of the program and its future directions.
Kindly provide an overview of the program and its main objectives? What credentials or certificates can participants earn?
YYCTrades aims to provide industry-recognized training and certification to help individuals build their careers in various trades. The main objectives are to address workforce shortages, improve the lives of new Canadians, and contribute to Alberta’s economy by providing skilled and certified individuals. Participants can earn pre-apprenticeship credentials in trades such as Carpentry, Electrician, Pipe Trades, and Plumbing. The program also offers 4th and 5th class Power Engineering and Building Maintenance Worker certifications.
How does the program support newcomers in gaining the necessary skills for these trades?
The program offers foundational pre-apprenticeship programs, which include technical theory, hands-on training, safety training and life and work management skills along with work experience placements. This rich module helps the newcomer participants gain the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the trades. Additionally, the program provides tailored training, language support and connections to local employers to bridge the gap between their prior experience and Canadian trade requirements.
Kindly share some success stories of participants who have benefited from the program.
The program has numerous success stories, with many participants finding sustainable employment in their chosen trades. Newcomers work with large, reputable companies that further support their achievements, helping them build their careers and progress through apprenticeships or power engineering certifications (from 5th to 4th class). The high demand for the program, with over 1,000 applications yearly for just over 100 seats, suggests that many participants have launched successful trade careers, building stable lives in Canada. A video from Alberta’s Premier Summit highlights the program’s impact, showcasing how it transforms lives through skill-building.
YYCTrades Success Stories
What are the key challenges that newcomers face when entering these trades, and how does the program help them overcome these challenges?
Newcomers often face language barriers, lack of Canadian work experience and unfamiliarity with local employment practices. YYCTrades helps overcome these challenges by providing occupation-specific language support, hands-on training to build relevant skills and job placement assistance. The program provides post program support to ensure continued success.
How do you ensure that the training provided is up-to-date with the forecast of trades in demand within the Alberta market?
YYCTrades ensures that the training provided is up to date with the forecast of trades in demand within the Alberta market by engaging with industry representatives and continuously updating the curriculum to reflect current labour market needs. This includes conducting ongoing market research and collaborating with industry partners to ensure the curriculum aligns with job opportunities and employer expectations.
What kind of support do participants receive during and after the program to help them secure employment?
Participants receive comprehensive support during and after the program, including job placement assistance, mentorship and ongoing career support to help them secure employment in their chosen trades. The program boasts an 85% average employment rate, with participants building sustainable careers and progressing in their fields. During the program, participants receive technical trainings, language assistance and career counseling. Post-graduation, they benefit from work experience placement services, resume help, employer connections and ongoing support to ensure they secure and retain employment
How do you collaborate with local businesses and employers to create job opportunities for program graduates?
The program collaborates with over 150 local businesses and employers to create job opportunities for graduates. This collaboration helps ensure that the training aligns with industry needs and provides participants with valuable connections in the job market. Many employers return to hire graduates, and some even offer paid employment instead of work experience placements. The program engages local employers to understand their needs, arranges work placements and hosts job fairs, ensuring graduates are matched with roles that meet workforce demands.
What feedback have you received from participants about their experience in the program?
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the training and support they received. Participants appreciate the practical skills and knowledge gained, which have helped them secure meaningful employment. Some participants return to become guest speakers or employers who influence hiring decisions. The high application rate—over 1,000 yearly for 100 spots—indicates strong positive feedback. Participants likely value the practical training and career opportunities, reflecting high satisfaction and trust in the program.
What are your plans for the YYCTrades program, and how do you envision its growth and impact in the coming years within Calgary and Alberta as a whole?
Our plans for YYCTrades include expanding the range of training programs offered, increasing the number of participants served and continuing to adapt to the evolving needs of the labour market. The program envisions significant growth and impact in Calgary and Alberta, contributing to a skilled and diverse workforce. These plans include expanding training seats and adding new trade programs to address growing demand. The vision is to enhance its impact by training more skilled workers, supporting Calgary’s economy and strengthening Alberta’s trade sector over the next decade. Program offerings have grown from one in 2001 to eleven at present, and the team continues to work hard to build more programs that will help newcomers and, in turn, grow the economy through the contributions of those building their new lives and families here.
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