EmployAbilities North recently attended the NE Project Conference, which brought together over 46 businesses along with employer support organizations. The event provided important insight into upcoming economic developments and workforce demands across Northeast Alberta.

There are multiple approved projects at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels. In addition to large-scale developments, numerous supporting projects will be required, including demolition, concrete work, and road infrastructure. One of the most significant announcements was the construction of a 1,000-person project camp in the Cold Lake area. This alone reflects the scale of workforce demand anticipated in the region.

Workforce Needs Identified

Employers highlighted the need for:

  • Welders
  • Plumbers
  • Carpenters
  • Electricians
  • Roadway crews
  • General labourers (Reliable-level security clearance required)

All on-site workers will require mandatory safety certifications, including:

  • First Aid
  • CSTS 2020
  • Other site-specific safety tickets

Key Takeaways 

A strong message throughout the conference was that these projects will require support at every level—from large contractors to local community-based businesses. Discussions focused on partnerships, procurement processes, tendering, and how smaller organizations can align with larger bids.

Most importantly, these are career-driven and long-term projects. Individuals may enter as labourers and progress toward apprenticeship and journeyman certification over the life of the projects. This creates meaningful career pathway opportunities for our clients.

How EmployAbilities Can Help 

As Employment Facilitators, our role in this development includes:

  • Preparing clients with the required safety certifications
  • Supporting Reliable-level security clearance applications
  • Connecting clients to apprenticeship pathways
  • Building relationships with local and major employers
  • Ensuring clients understand long-term career potential, not just short-term employment

There is a significant opportunity for regional growth, and proactive engagement will be key. There was a strong willingness among attendees to collaborate in building the workforce needed to support these developments.

This is an exciting time for Northeast Alberta, and it presents a real opportunity formeaningful employment in the region.