(Dreamstime)

By Chris Brown

Province invests in work-integrated learning opportunities

Jul 6, 2021 | 10:12 AM

A partnership between the province and industry, employers, and post-secondary institutions will provide more on-the-job learning opportunities for post-secondary students and help build job-ready skills.

The government is investing $3.6 million in learning opportunities in key priority areas through the Work-Integrated Learning Industry Voucher pilot program.

According to the government, over the next three years, the pilot program will provide about 650 students with a paid work placement to learn hands-on from professionals in their field.

The partnership includes three industry associations from Alberta’s priority sectors: Technology Alberta, Alberta Construction Association, and BioAlberta.

“Work-integrated learning opportunities will bridge the gap between advanced education and industry, increasing value for students,” says Liam Hunter, director, Alberta Students’ Executive Council, in a release.

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“The ability to complete formal education while earning on-the-job work experience relevant to a student’s learning path will provide Alberta students key first pieces needed to have a meaningful and rewarding career.”

Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education, says that in addition to providing valuable opportunities for our students, these work placements help build relationships between industry and educators to ensure programs are responsive to the needs of both students and employers.

The government says that expanding work-integrated learning opportunities is a flagship initiative under the Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs strategy.

These partner industry associations are working with post-secondary institutions and employers to match students with new work-integrated learning opportunities.

The program will also help employers access emerging local talent by providing a grant of up to $5,000 per student placement, which is matched by the employer.

According to the province, graduates have indicated that lack of work experience is a barrier to finding employment once they complete their studies.

They say this program will help students gain relevant work experience in their field of study and help them launch their careers once they graduate.