Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. (Government of Alberta)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Provincial Politics

Provincial government hoping to help heroes find civilian success

Jun 18, 2025 | 5:04 PM

The Alberta government says it has a new mission; helping to connect former military and public safety personnel with meaningful civilian careers.

Provincial officials say members of the Canadian Armed Forces and public safety personnel embody strength, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to service. Whether protecting the country abroad or ensuring the safety of communities at home, the government acknowledges, these individuals have made immense sacrifices in the name of duty. As their time in uniform comes to a close, Alberta’s government says it is committed to standing behind them – just as they have stood for the community at-large.

The government says transitioning to civilian life can present unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding meaningful employment that reflects the skills and leadership developed through service. To help ease this transition, the province is investing $1.2 million in Prospect Human Services’ Forces@WORK program, which provides specialized supports to help former military and public service personnel rejoin the workforce.

“Our government is committed to ensuring that veterans and public safety personnel have the support they need to build meaningful careers beyond their service,” explains Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. “Through this partnership, we’re honouring Alberta’s heroes by helping them transition into rewarding careers in the civilian workforce.”

“Every Albertan deserves an opportunity to pursue meaningful employment, especially those who have served our country as public safety personnel or in the Canadian Armed Forces,” adds Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration. “This funding will make it possible for more veterans and former public safety personnel to connect with jobs that fit within their needs and contribute to their success.”

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“As military liaison, I know the immense value of former military and public safety personnel’s unique skill sets,” says Justin Wright, Alberta government’s Military Liaison to the Canadian Armed Forces. “The strength, determination, and discipline developed in their line of work are valuable assets to any industry. This investment helps ensure those strengths are recognized and supported as they transition into meaningful civilian careers.”

Provincial officials note, the transition from military and public safety careers to civilian employment often involves addressing both personal and professional factors, such as physical, psychological, or emotional barriers, as well as the need to adapt highly specialized skills to new work environments. Government officials say the Forces@WORK program is specifically designed to address these challenges and help participants move forward with confidence as they enter the next chapter of their careers.

Participants receive individualized assessments and customized supports tailored to their unique experiences and goals. Officials say the program offers a range of services, including peer support, career planning, job search assistance, resume and interview preparation, on-the-job training opportunities, as well as ongoing support to help maintain long-term employment. By addressing both the practical and personal aspects of career transition, the government hopes Forces@WORK helps ensure participants are able to find fulfilling work and are well-equipped for success in the civilian workforce.

“The Forces@WORK program is life-changing, helping veterans and public safety personnel overcome physical and psychological challenges during career transitions,” states Major (retired) David Blackburn, senior manager of program operations and director of military employment services, Prospect Human Services. “Forces@WORK changed my life after I medically retired following 25 years in the Canadian Army, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help others through the program now. Prospect is pleased to partner with the provincial government, so that more Albertans are able to benefit from the same support I have.”

“Within OSI-CAN Alberta, a common belief amongst new participants is that their skills are not relevant for the civilian workforce,” shares Sergeant (retired) Jason Trenholm, provincial services coordinator, OSI-CAN. “Being able to connect them to the Forces@WORK program provides them hope and reassurance. Before long, they’ve found meaning and purpose through a follow-on career, thanks to the work done by this important program.”

Alberta government quick facts

• The Forces@WORK: Public Safety Personnel Program helps former military and public safety personnel including corrections workers, dispatchers, firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and RCMP members.
• Founded in 1980, Prospect Human Services Society helps Albertans overcome barriers to employment through skill development, job search support and career services.