The ACA has expanded our workforce efforts with the release of our Digital Skills Training Program.
With the rise of digital technology affecting how construction projects are being planned, coordinated, and executed, ensuring Alberta’s tradespeople have competency in digital skills is paramount to the longevity and competitiveness of the sector.
ACA recognizes the importance of investing in digital competency to improve coordination, reduce rework, support workforce development, and remain competitive in modern construction.
The ACA’s Digital Skills Training Program provides Alberta’s tradespeople with access to 7 short, practical, gold seal certified courses which are designed to build the foundational digital competency required without the need for technical knowledge or software expertise.
The courses are designed to cover all facets of digital training in construction, including Building Information Modeling (BIM), Reality Capture (RC), AI, and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC).
The gold seal accredited courses utilize self-paced online learning, span approximately 3-4 hours per course, and include short assessments.
The seven courses may be taken individually or combined, and are as follows:
- Digital Technology Overview (DTO)
An introduction to the digital technologies shaping construction, including BIM, Reality Capture, digital twins, prefabrication, and artificial intelligence.
- Artificial Intelligence in Construction
A non-technical overview of AI concepts, terminology, construction use cases, and implementation considerations.
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Introduces BIM as a process, highlighting coordination workflows, strategic benefits, and contractual considerations.
- Reality Capture in Construction
Explores LiDAR, drones, photogrammetry, SLAM scanning, and 360° imagery for site verification, QA/QC, and BIM integration.
- Tradespeople Transitioning to VDC Roles
Supports experienced tradespeople moving into VDC and coordination roles through foundational BIM and digital workflow concepts.
- Exposing Tradespeople to BIM & VDC
Provides tradespeople with introductory exposure to BIM and VDC processes and their impact on construction outcomes.
- Introducing Apprentices to BIM & VDC
Builds early awareness of BIM and VDC concepts to support long-term career development in a digital construction environment.
This Training Program is intended for a wide range of construction professionals, including tradespeople, apprentices, and others in various industry roles.
ACA is proud to deliver this program to Alberta’s construction industry and support the tens of thousands of tradespeople who contribute to the province’s economy. As construction continues to evolve, ensuring Alberta’s workforce has the skills to adapt to new technologies will be essential to maintaining productivity, competitiveness, and long-term industry growth.
ACA will continue to advocate for initiatives that strengthen Alberta’s construction workforce, support skills development, and ensure industry has the tools needed to meet the demands of a changing construction environment.