The demand for labourers in the trade occupations is strong in Alberta. Because of large projects in oil and gas, workers who are trained in the trades (electricians, technical workers, mechanics), as well as those who provide services for a growing population (such as construction workers) are in high demand.

There is an apprenticeship system in Alberta that trains those who are interested in a trade occupation. What this means is that a candidate must be employed in the industry of their choosing and be trained on the job by an experienced certified journeyman, supplemented by classroom or distance learning through a post-secondary institution such as NAIT.

Edmonton Economic Development Corporation City of Edmonton