
Advancing Workforce Development through Apprenticeship/Trades & Engagement

Executive Summary
Community Futures Wild Rose (CFWR) is launching a strategic initiative to address business support and workforce development challenges in our region, focusing on skilled trades and business engagement. This initiative responds to findings from CFWR’s recent workforce report, which identified critical labour gaps and emphasized the need for skilled workers, accessible training, and enhanced HR support for small businesses.
The project is designed to increase awareness of trade and apprenticeship opportunities in construction and healthcare, support small businesses in improving their hiring and retention practices, and expand resources available for business support and expansion.
Project Objectives
CFWR will host two (2) "Try a Trade Day" events in early September 2025 and 2026, showcasing trade schools and entrepreneurs in the trades while offering hands-on demonstrations to participants. These events will feature interactive activities designed to raise awareness of trade careers among high school students and adults exploring new career paths. The first event will take place in the southern part of the region, encompassing Strathmore, Wheatland County, Chestermere, and Rocky View County, while the second will be held in the northern area, including Three Hills, Trochu, and Kneehill County.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with trade schools and apprenticeship programs to explore available career options, with a particular focus on helping high school students ensure they have the necessary courses for their final years. By opening the event to all age groups, CFWR aims to broaden its impact, inspiring participants at every stage of their career journey to consider opportunities in the trades.

Advancing Workforce Development through Apprenticeship/Trades & Engagement