Wednesday, May 13, 2026
The Government of Alberta announced it is investing $384 million to create 5,500 more apprenticeship training spaces at NAIT and strengthen Alberta’s skilled workforce.
One of Alberta’s largest investments in trades training infrastructure, the Advanced Skills Centre will add about 625,000 square feet to NAIT’s main campus. Opening in fall 2030, it will bring together 29 programs in job-site-inspired training spaces and support 5,500 additional apprentices annually in high-demand fields, including construction, transportation, manufacturing and energy.
The Advanced Skills Centre is designed to give students hands-on experience and direct pathways into the workforce. Skilled trades workers are building Alberta’s homes, roads, energy projects and infrastructure.
“Skilled trades offer Albertans the chance to build a good life, create something lasting and help shape the future of this province. As Alberta grows, so does the demand for skilled workers. This investment will help train the next generation of trades professionals our economy needs to keep building and growing,” said Premier Danielle Smith.
The NAIT Advanced Skills Centre will expand access for post-secondary students to hands-on training in state-of-the-art learning environments, creating more pathways into rewarding careers in the skilled trades, while strengthening Alberta’s workforce.
“NAIT applauds the Government of Alberta for this historic investment in the skilled trades. The Advanced Skill Centre will ensure more Albertans –5,500 extra annually – get industry-leading training so they are job-ready to build the next generation of economic opportunities,” said Laura Jo Gunter, president and CEO, NAIT.
Early site work is expected to begin in spring 2026, with construction beginning in 2027. The facility is expected to open in fall 2030.
“Our government is committed to the future of skilled trades in Alberta – this $384-million investment is proof of that. As one of the largest investments in trades training infrastructure in our province’s history, the Advanced Skills Centre will ensure NAIT can meet growing demand across construction, transportation, manufacturing and energy. We’re helping make sure that more Albertans have a clear path to a rewarding career,” said Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education.
Featured image: (NAIT)
