Edmonton, Alberta – December 6, 2024
The continued success of Trade Winds to Success is driven by partnerships that result in a comprehensive training and support system for its students. On December 6th, the Government of Alberta announced their pivotal partnership with Trade Winds through a funding agreement of $1.5 million over three years. The funding contributes to Trade Winds’ operational costs, with the aim to sustain and enhance pre-trades training opportunities for Indigenous people, helping to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce in Alberta.
The funding commitment reaffirms Alberta’s dedication to supporting Indigenous communities and fostering an inclusive economy. By investing in education and training, the province is helping Indigenous students build careers in the skilled trades, contributing to both their personal success and the prosperity of Alberta. As the agreement unfolds, Trade Winds to Success will continue its efforts to break down barriers and provide Indigenous learners with the tools they need to excel in the trades, ensuring that they have the skills, confidence, and support to thrive in the workforce and beyond.
Minister of Advanced Education, Honourable Rajan Sawhney, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, recognizing the significant role Trade Winds to Success plays in empowering Indigenous students. “Trade Winds to Success has an impressive history of helping Indigenous students to discover new career opportunities in the skilled trades, overcome barriers to education, and thrive in the workplace,” Sawhney said. “Supporting Trade Winds is a win-win for Indigenous workers and Alberta’s economy.”
Minister of Indigenous Relations, Honourable Rick Wilson, highlighted the importance of this initiative as a step forward in the province’s commitment to reconciliation and the Trades Industry.
Linda Domak, President of the Board of Directors for Trade Winds to Success, expressed her gratitude for the funding and the province’s continued support of Indigenous-led initiatives. “This funding is vital in allowing us to continue our work of supporting Indigenous students as they navigate the trades industry,” Domak said. “It will enable us to expand our programs and create more pathways to success for Indigenous learners. We are excited about the future and the opportunities this support will bring.”
“The multi-year funding announcement from the Ministry of Advanced Education is the perfect demonstration of reconciliation in action. We are grateful to the Honourable Rajan Sawhney for recognizing the importance of uplifting Indigenous people pursuing careers in the trades, knowing the impact we have on the Alberta economy. Access to operational dollars not only allows us to address core needs but it also allows us to build capacity and plan for the future. Through quality pre-trades training, we can continue empowering the next generation of tradespeople while finding new ways to support their goals.”
The Government of Alberta’s official announcement can be found here: https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=9248825088597-0AD3-00E8-3A7B4E3EACA98FB3
