Many newcomers arrive in Canada with advanced degrees, considerable technical expertise and years of international experience—assets that should propel them forward in their Canadian careers. Yet many find themselves having to navigate a new professional landscape where cultural nuances, gaps in social capital and unfamiliar—sometimes tedious and expensive—credentialing systems can slow their momentum. For newcomer professionals adjusting to a new environment, aligning hard-won foreign expertise with Alberta’s workforce needs becomes both a personal and economic priority.
At CCIS’s Business, Employment, and Training Services (BETS) division, we are driven by a simple yet powerful mission—to empower newcomers with the skills, knowledge and support they need to build meaningful careers in Alberta. We believe in the potential of every individual who walks through our doors. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships with Alberta’s business community and a client-centred approach, we connect talent with opportunity, helping newcomers not just find jobs but build fulfilling, lasting careers.
Our programs serve a diverse range of individuals—each with their own stories, challenges, and aspirations. Whether they are new to the workforce, transitioning careers or rebuilding their professional lives in a new country, our services are designed to guide them every step of the way. From employment counseling and language training to skills enhancement, mentorship and networking, we ensure that newcomers are equipped with the tools they need to succeed. By aligning our programs with labour market trends, we create pathways to employment while advocating for inclusive workplaces that recognize and value the contributions of skilled newcomers.
None of this would be possible without the heart and dedication of our incredible multidisciplinary team, whose passion, expertise and commitment make all the difference—not just in the success of our programs but in the lives of those we serve. Every success story reflects the hard work of passionate staff working within various BETS programs.
Through strong partnerships with Alberta’s businesses, community agencies, professional associations and educational institutions, we develop and deliver industry-driven programs that equip newcomers to fill critical labour gaps in various industries such as Energy, Skilled Trades, Financial Services, Information Technology, Retail, Manufacturing, Logistics and Supply Chain Management and more. Our Training/Bridging Programs, Pre-Arrival Programs, Employment Services, Centre for Entrepreneurship, and Community Support Services have facilitated the integration of thousands of newcomers into our province’s workforce. Many of our graduates secure meaningful employment within three to six months, addressing labour shortages and contributing to Alberta’s economic prosperity. We are excited to be able to contribute the growth of our province’s economy in this way and remain committed to the important task of collaborating with industry to develop innovative programming that will continue serving as a steady pipeline of highly skilled and job-ready newcomers who will drive Alberta’s future prosperity.
March 8 was International Women’s Day, and this significant annual event inspires us to celebrate the extraordinary resilience, adaptability and leadership of the women we serve here at CCIS—qualities that continue to uplift and strengthen our communities every day. My message to women is one of deep admiration. Many of the women who come through our programs are not only building their careers, but they are also leading their families through the transition of making a new country their home. Their perseverance, devotion, courage and achievements inspire us every day.
This year’s theme, Accelerate Action, is a call to advance gender equity in every sphere, especially in the workplace. At BETS, we are committed to ensuring that women—regardless of background, experience or circumstance—have equitable access to the professional opportunities, training and support they need to thrive. We know that when women succeed, families grow stronger, communities flourish and economies prosper.
To the women we serve: we celebrate your strength, vision and determination. Your success is more than just personal achievement—it is proof of the incredible impact women bring to the workforce and society. Keep striving, keep leading and know that we are here to support you every step of the way.
Progress begins with each of us through our choices, our advocacy and our commitment to a more inclusive society.
Happy International Women’s Day!
