%20(1).svg)
Tools, PPE & Workwear
Help with eligible tools, protective equipment and workwear needed to get started and work safely.
Start your path into Alberta's skilled trades
Trade Pathways connects eligible job seekers with construction employment opportunities and practical supports that can help them succeed at work and build careers in the skilled trades. Access to Trade Pathways begins through an approved referral partner.
Who is Trade Pathways for?
Trade Pathways is for eligible Alberta job seekers who are unemployed or underemployed, interested in building a career in construction, and belong to at least one of the eligible communities below.
- Youth Age 30 and under
- Indigenous people of Canada
- Newcomers to Canada
- People with a disability
- Women
You only need to belong to one eligible community
You do not need to meet all five community criteria. For example, being over age 30 does not prevent you from potentially qualifying through another eligible community. Other program eligibility requirements are confirmed during the referral and application process.
How Trade Pathways can support you
Once enrolled, eligible participants may receive practical, needs-based supports that help address barriers to starting and succeeding in construction employment.
Transportation
Support to help address eligible transportation barriers to getting to and from work.
Training & Certifications
Eligible skills training, assessments and certifications that support success in employment.
Apprenticeship Support
Support for participants progressing into apprenticeship, including eligible first-year apprenticeship training costs.
How Trade Pathways works
Trade Pathways is a referral-based program. The exact journey can vary, but these are the main steps.
1
Connect
Contact an approved referral partner that serves your community and region.
2
Get Referred
Your referral partner discusses the program with you and, where appropriate, provides access to the Trade Pathways application and referral process.
3
Get Hired & Supported
Trade Pathways works with participating construction employers and provides approved supports during eligible employment.
4
Build Your Career
The goal is continued construction employment and progression toward apprenticeship where appropriate.
Opportunities in Alberta's skilled trades
Trade Pathways supports employment opportunities in the eligible trades listed for the program. Opportunities vary based on employer demand and region.
Find a referral partner
Trade Pathways does not accept applications directly from the public.
If you think Trade Pathways may be right for you, connect with an approved referral partner that serves your region and eligible community. The partner can discuss your circumstances, confirm the appropriate next step and provide the non-public application link when making a referral.
What happens next?
Your referral partner will discuss your eligibility and suitability for Trade Pathways. If a referral is appropriate, they will provide the private application link and connect you with the program. Trade Pathways then confirms eligibility and works with you on appropriate employment opportunities and next steps.
A referral or application does not guarantee program enrolment or employment.
Job Seeker FAQ
Can I apply directly to Trade Pathways?
No. Trade Pathways uses a referral model. Job seekers connect with an approved referral partner, which can provide the non-public application link when making an appropriate referral.
Do I have to be 30 or younger?
No. Youth age 30 and under are one eligible community. Job seekers over 30 may potentially qualify through another eligible community, such as Indigenous People of Canada, newcomers to Canada, people with a disability or women.
Do I need previous construction experience?
Previous construction experience is not necessarily required. Referral partners and Trade Pathways can help determine whether the program and available opportunities are appropriate for your circumstances.
Does Trade Pathways guarantee me a job?
No. Trade Pathways works with construction employers and referral partners to support employment opportunities, but referral or program eligibility does not guarantee employment.
What supports could I receive?
Eligible supports are based on individual need and program requirements. They may include tools, PPE and workwear, transportation, training and certifications, and apprenticeship-related support.