CALGARY- Word that the federal government plans put up to $15,000 per year in some student’s pockets is welcome news for those looking at a career in the trades. But there is a catch—the province must match it.
The Canada Jobs Grant, revealed in Thursday’s federal budget, promises up to $15,000 per year for students honing high-demand skills. The federal government will pitch in $5,000 per year, as long as employers and provinces promise to do the same.
Industry leaders expect employers to jump at the opportunity.
“I’m pretty optimistic that the employers will come online to support the initiative, I think it’s progressive and I think it will help them,” says Dr. David Ross, president of SAIT. “”They’re looking for people to fill the positions.”
The budget also includes $19 million to persuade young workers to enter science, technology, engineering, mathematics and skilled trades. The government is also investing $4 million to make accreditation easier for apprentices.
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