SEATS AT SAIT
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology’s (SAIT) auto body program is among three training institutions in the province due to receive a boost in classroom funding, thanks to an investment announced on Sept. 23.
In addition to NAIT, Portage College and its many campuses, SAIT’s auto body technician and automotive service technician programs are due to receive $187,810 of a total $1.37 million investment earmarked for opening up additional seats in classrooms. The Alberta government says this investment is part of a three-year plan to inject $15 million into apprenticeship education programs at post-secondary institutions across the province.
MERIT WITH MAACO
Maaco held its 2022 convention in November, where the Driven Brands-owned network awarded two honours to Alberta-based franchisees. One of Maaco’s top award honours, the Terry Taylor Award, went to Peter Flannigan of Maaco Airdrie in Alberta.
“Flannigan has a longstanding reputation for giving back to his community,” wrote the network in its award announcement. “Whether it’s going the extra mile on the paint job on a classic car; pitching in with a community effort to help someone in need, or making generous donations to local charities, [Flannigan] goes above and beyond.”
Maaco also noted Flannigan’s role as an “engaged franchisee” as an Advisory Council member and supportive colleague. The Mirante family of Maaco Edmonton also received an honour during the conference: a Regional Cup marking outstanding performance in car count, sales and operational excellence.
RECRUITMENT REDIAL
Torontonians and West Coasters be warned; there are Albertans looking to convince you to work in the Wild Rose province, and they may have lassos. Following the lead of Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia, Alberta is several months into its own recruitment effort, aiming to convince residents of two of Canada’s most expensive cities that everything they could ever need is available and cheaper in Alberta.
According to Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) data, the average home sale price over the last three years in Edmonton was $383,000—34 percent of the price of a home in Greater Vancouver and 38 percent of the price of a home in Greater Toronto, respectively.
The Alberta is Calling campaign is expected to cost the province $2.6 million as it rolls out billboards, radio and newspaper ads and social media initiatives across the two cities.
