The retraining program for specialists plans to expand
The demand for participation in the retraining program for oil and gas production specialists is so high that the government grant is now simply not enough.
Calgary's oil and gas retraining program is seeking additional funding to boost enrolment. Since the pilot launch of the project, demand for skills upgrades has been so high that the federal government's grant is simply not enough. To date, the funding amount is $1.5 million CAD.
The Edge Up project offers free education for energy workers with an engineering degree or similar. They are trained for jobs in Canada's technology sector.
"We take an employee at the peak of their career who is already entrenched in their industry and help them upgrade their skills to meet the needs of today's economy," describes the program director, Jeanette Sutherland.
This is a great opportunity for recently relocated professionals from overseas, as the demand for qualified personnel is constantly growing. For example, the Calgary Department of Economics reports that the number of high-tech jobs in Alberta will reach 77,500 by 2023.
Ms. Sutherland reported that there are now 100 people on a six-month training program. However, the initial number of applications was 1,300. Therefore, the programme managers are asking the government to increase funding.
By the way, according to the Edge Up project director, the employment rate after the retraining program is now 60%.
