The construction industry in Alberta is projected to experience modest growth, with an expected net increase of about 2,400 workers by 2027. However, the industry faces a significant challenge: the need to recruit and train nearly 27,700 additional workers to meet demands due to retirements and new project requirements. This training gap poses several concerns and impacts, particularly in the areas of quality management and welder training certifications and competency.
Labour Shortage
The immediate impact of the labour shortage is evident in project delays, increased costs, and compromised quality. According to the Alberta Construction Industry Profile, the sector contributed $23.6 billion to the province’s GDP in 2021, highlighting its economic significance[1]. Persistent labour shortages may deter future investments and slow down the overall growth of the construction industry in Alberta. The BuildForce Canada report emphasizes that the construction sector will need to recruit and train a substantial number of workers to replace retiring employees and meet the demands of new projects[2].
Quality Management Challenges
Ensuring that construction projects meet the required standards becomes increasingly challenging with an inadequately trained workforce. Poor quality management can lead to safety risks, legal liabilities, and reputational damage for construction firms. The Alberta Construction Industry Profile notes that quality assurance is critical for maintaining safety and compliance with industry standards[3]. Effective quality management training programs are essential to equip workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to uphold these standards.
Welder Training and Competency
The gap in welder training can result in a lack of certified welders, affecting the quality and safety of construction projects. The Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training System highlights the importance of rigorous training and certification for welders to meet industry standards[4]. The evolution of training and certification programs, as discussed by the CWB Group, has modernized the curriculum to include both wire-feed processes and manual welding, ensuring that welders are well-prepared for the demands of the industry[5].
Addressing the Training Gap
To address the training gap, enhanced training programs focused on quality management and welder certification are crucial. Collaboration with educational institutions can help develop specialized training programs tailored to industry needs. Apprenticeship programs provide hands-on experience and mentorship for new workers, ensuring they gain practical skills. Additionally, investment in digital training resources, such as online training modules and virtual simulations, can offer flexible and accessible training options for workers.
Qualimet’s Role in Bridging the Training Gap
At Qualimet, we are committed to supporting our clients in overcoming the challenges posed by the training gap in Alberta’s construction industry. Our Quality Development services, and our library of coaching services are designed to provide companies with an investment in their workforce to build growth and workers with the necessary skills and competencies to excel in their roles. Our programs cover a wide range of topics, including quality management, fabrication/construction/repair standards, and industry best practices. We offer competency programs for welders, ensuring they meet industry standards and project requirements. Our digital library provides access to a wealth of training resources, including online course, and instructional videos. By partnering with Qualimet, we join your success and ensure your workforce is well-prepared to meet the demands of the construction industry. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your training needs.
Conclusion
Addressing the training gap in Alberta’s construction industry is crucial for ensuring the sector’s growth and sustainability. By investing in the people that work for you as well as you the individual, and by leveraging training resources, the industry can overcome these challenges and thrive in the coming years. Qualimet is here to support you every step of the way, providing the training and resources needed to build a competent and skilled workforce.