CLRA has renewed its support for skilled trades students at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) for the 2026–27 school year, continuing its commitment to the training and development of future tradespeople in Alberta. CLRA is donating $30,000 for bursaries and grants, which will be distributed by NAIT and awarded to students based on demonstrated academic and financial need. 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. Up to six awards will be available for each program, including grants for students from historically marginalized and excluded communities, helping remove barriers and create opportunities for those entering or advancing in the trades. With five intakes throughout the year, these awards provide meaningful assistance to apprentices who demonstrate financial need, academic achievement and personal commitment to their training. “This sponsorship is helping build a strong, local pipeline of apprentices, journeypersons and future supervisors, starting with education, training and mentorship,” said Joe McFadyen, President of CLRA. “Supporting students at the beginning of their careers is how we plant the seeds of a homegrown workforce. These students are building

A stable apprenticeship system is essential to Alberta’s construction workforce. National data shows apprenticeship registrations are increasing, but completion rates and early retention remain behind. This affects project delivery, workforce stability and long‑term talent development. CLRA continues to focus on the supports employers need to help apprentices progress, including stronger skilled trades pathways, better alignment across training partners and practical tools that improve mentorship and on‑the‑job learning. Statistics Canada reported more than 101,000 new apprenticeship registrations in 2024, the highest level since 2008. The Trades Network says this growth reflects rising interest in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, millwright work, heavy equipment and construction careers, but demand for these skills still outpaces supply. According to the Government of Canada’s 2026 Spring Update, retirement and economic growth mean Canada will need more than 1.4 million additional trades workers by 2033. Growing registrations are positive, but certification is what strengthens the workforce. Apprentices need employers ready to train them, journeypersons with time to mentor, consistent hours, meaningful experience, exposure to the full scope of their trade and financial support during technical training. Without these supports, retention suffers. A University of Toronto study found apprentices were six times more likely than licensed electricians to say

CLRA will be promoting skilled trades careers to rodeo youth and all those attending the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton this October. CLRA is the presenting sponsor of the saddle bronc riding and barrel racing events at the Canadian Youth Rodeo Championship (CYRC), which is presented by Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals and held during the Cinch Canadian Country Expo. This partnership gives CLRA a strong platform to build awareness of the construction industry and promote careers in the skilled trades. The CYRC brings together families, young competitors and communities from across Alberta, creating a way for us to support youth and connect with the province’s future workforce. Rodeo has deep roots in rural and industrial communities, where skilled trades are part of everyday life. Alberta continues to face a workforce gap, and events like the CYRC help introduce young people to the opportunities available in the trades and the long careers they can build. CLRA President Joe McFadyen says the partnership is a natural fit. “Rodeo and construction share a lot of the same values. You show up, you work hard and you take pride in the results,” said Joe McFadyen, President, CLRA. “The CYRC gives us a great chance