ACA’s September Newsletter is available now. This month is centered on ACA’s vast array of workforce expansion efforts and how these programs can assist in ensuring Alberta’s construction industry remains competitive and continues to evolve. In addition to these workforce expansion programs, September’s newsletter also includes coverage of ACA’s monthly Industry Statistics Packages.
Other highlights featured in this month’s edition:
- ACA’s efforts in expanding the programs available to current or future skilled trades workers has resulted in updates on Calgary’s Alberta Trades Discovery Center, training programs focused on developing digital skills, and supporting underemployed and unemployed Albertans through the Trade Pathways program.
- The Government of Canada’s counter-tariffs took effect on September 8th, introducing tariffs of 15%, 25%, and 50% on specified goods originating from the U.S. These measures cover around $27.6 billion in U.S. imports and include multiple materials used extensively in construction, such as steel, pipe fittings, fasteners, flooring, plywood, lumber, and other equipment. Tariff impacts will vary by product, origin and availability of alternative suppliers, creating uncertainty around material pricing and availability for construction businesses.
- As a result of these tariffs, The Government of Alberta is seeking feedback through an online portal for businesses and organizations to share information on how tariffs and proposed measures may affect their operations. Members can provide their feedback in the link provided in the below newsletter.
- ACA’s monthly construction Industry Statistics Package is a snapshot of the current state of Alberta’s construction industry and covers several key parameters, including the value of proposed projects, labour force statistics, and retirement projections. September’s package notes multiple variances and updates since the release of August’s edition, including average weekly wages going from $1,697 to $1,709 or the current number of construction employees decreasing from 287,100 to 286,400, while still representing a 9.7% increase year over year.
Through its work with more than 3,000 members, ACA continues to support the growth and development of Alberta’s construction workforce, advancing initiatives that help attract, train, and retain skilled trades workers and strengthen the industry for the future.
For further details, explore this month’s ACA newsletter, available below, which provides additional context and direct links to relevant programs, articles, and policy documents.