News Release, May 6, 2025
Construction Labour Relations Alberta (CLRA) is supporting the training and development of tradespeople in Alberta through a set of new bursaries and grants for apprenticeship

students at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT).

CLRA is donating $30,000 for 60 bursaries and grants of $500 each that will be distributed by NAIT and awarded to students based on a demonstration of both academic and financial need.

“CLRA’s donation to NAIT aligns with our work to grow awareness of careers in the skilled trades and substantially increase the number of skilled tradespeople in Alberta,” said CLRA President & CEO, Joe McFadyen. “These bursaries and grants also support CLRA’s “seed versus sod” strategy to address labour shortages – supporting students who are

apprenticing in a skilled trade is an important piece of the “seed” aspect of cultivating and fostering a homegrown workforce.”

The bursaries will be available to first and second-period students in the Carpenter,

Ironworker, Insulator, Millwright, Plumber, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, Roofer Sheet Metal Worker, Steamfitter-Pipefitter, and Welder apprenticeship programs. There will be up to six awards available for each program, including grants for students from historically marginalized and excluded communities.

“CLRA’s support represents an important investment in Alberta’s future skilled workforce,” said NAIT President & CEO, Laura Jo Gunter. “These bursaries will help more students

access apprenticeship training, reduce financial barriers, and prepare for meaningful careers that are essential to building our province. We are proud to work with CLRA to create opportunities for the next generation of skilled trades professionals.”

The financial bursaries funded by CLRA will help expand Alberta’s skilled trades workforce by providing prospective students with financial assistance on their path to a career in the

trades. They are also one more component of our ongoing support and advocacy for increased apprenticeships and mentorship programs targeting youth.

“Alberta’s government is committed to training the skilled workforce Alberta needs to meet the labour market demands of today and the future. These bursaries will help ensure that apprenticeship training is accessible to more students who choose to pursue it, and I want to thank CLRA and NAIT for collaborating on this meaningful initiative,” added the

Honourable Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education.

Contact:

Joe McFadyen                                    Leanne Stangeland

President & CEO                               Senior Consultant, Strategy and Public Affairs

CLRA                                                  Big Picture Public Affairs

joe@clra.org                                      leanne@bigpicture.ca

780-719-7616                                     780-909-2456