Local municipalities to launch new labour and workforce study

CENTRAL ALBERTA -- Municipalities in Central Alberta are undertaking a regional Labour Market Study and Workforce Strategy.

The collaborative initiative seeks to address the evolving workforce needs within the region, foster economic resilience, and ensure long-term growth for local businesses and industries. The project is being led by Lacombe County Economic Development, in partnership with Lacombe, Blackfalds, the Government of Alberta (Labour and Immigration), and neighbouring municipalities, including Bentley, Eckville, Clive, and Alix.

Organizers say that by analyzing labour trends, skill gaps, and employment opportunities, the study will provide actionable insights that support regional businesses in accessing the talent they need, while also identifying opportunities for workforce development and training programs. They add that the new strategy will also guide efforts to attract, retain, and upskill the regional workforce, ensuring a competitive and vibrant economy.

In total, the new Labour Market Study and Workforce Strategy is expected to cost $143,900. Of this, $49,900 will be provided by the province's Labour Grant, while $30,000 will be contributed by the City of Lacombe, Town of Blackfalds, and Lacombe County. Bentley, Eckville, Clive, and Alix, will all pitch in $1,000 for the initiative.

It's expected that the new project will equip the partnered municipalities with critical data on workforce trends, skill gaps, and employment needs, enabling informed decision-making to drive economic development. This will include a full labour market analysis report, stakeholder engagement and survey results, workforce attraction and retention strategies, among others.

Lacombe County Economic Development says that by planning for future growth and aligning policies with industry demands, municipalities can strengthen their local economies and secure funding for workforce development initiatives.