Toronto, Ontario — The Ontario and Alberta governments have announced a cross-provincial collaboration to support the development of a framework for international credential recognition and post-journeyperson certification.
According to a recent press release, “this partnership (aims to) put Canadian workers first by reducing interprovincial barriers and red tape for credential recognition and encouraging the flow of labour between Ontario and Alberta.”
Specifically, under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the provinces will work together to share expertise and information and explore an international credential recognition framework for skilled trades that will enhance this process and support mobility between these jurisdictions.
The press release further noted that this partnership will also aim to expand offerings of post-journeyperson certifications to support graduates of apprenticeship programs in upskilling and achieving pathways to further their career prospects.
David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development commented that “Ontario needs hundreds of thousands of additional skilled trades workers over the next decade (…) working together with Alberta, we’re sharing knowledge and expertise on international credential recognition, removing barriers to skilled workers, filling in-demand jobs and building our communities.”
Additionally, Rajan Sawhney, Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education further commented that “this agreement marks a significant step forward in addressing the skilled labour shortage in Alberta. By expanding our international credential recognition and working with our partners in the Government of Ontario, we can welcome more talented individuals and ensure our economy remains competitive and dynamic.”
The Memorandum of Understanding will be reviewed again in 18 months.
For more information about the partnership, click here.