Edmonton, AB – The Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council (Alberta AAC) receives 1.5 Million in funding to launch a transformative workforce development program (named Alberta Aerospace Fusion) aimed at addressing critical labour shortages in Alberta’s aviation sector. In collaboration with the Alberta Aviation Future Alliance—a strategic partnership between Elevate Aviation, CAREERS, and the Canadian Council for Aviation and Aerospace (CCAA), this initiative will strengthen Alberta’s talent pipeline and respond directly to the growing demand for skilled aviation professionals. 

“We’re honoured that the Alberta Aviation and Aerospace Council has received this funding to help skill the next generation for careers in aviation and aerospace. Through our partnership with the Alberta Aviation Future Alliance, we’re creating opportunities for Albertans to gain the skills, experience, and connections they need to thrive in these essential industries. Together, we’re building a stronger, more prepared workforce for Alberta’s future.”

– Kendra Kincade, Chair, Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council

Alberta Aerospace Fusion Program Partners: 

Alberta AAC 

Graduates will be connected with employers for the three-week internship through the Alberta AAC membership base and partner organizations.

“This initiative is about real results,” said Nicole Holinaty, Vice Chair of the Alberta AAC. “We’re not just talking about workforce development—we’re driving it. By uniting key players in education, training, and industry, we’re creating tangible pathways to employment and shaping the future of aviation in Alberta.”

Elevate Aviation

Elevate Aviation’s mission to advance the success of women and underrepresented groups by providing education, career development, and workplace culture solutions ensures participants gain industry-recognized skills, mentorship, and support to confidently launch or relaunch careers in aviation. 

“Elevate Aviation is proud to lead the way in creating equitable access to aviation careers,” said Nova Andrews, CEO of Elevate Aviation. “This partnership builds workforce capacity while empowering individuals from all walks of life to thrive in high-opportunity aviation roles. Alberta’s aviation future is more inclusive and resilient because of it.”

CAREERS

High school and gap-year students will gain career exposure and industry experience through workplace readiness training and three-week aviation internships—giving them a head start in building long-term careers.

“We’re thrilled to connect Alberta’s youth with hands-on experiences that lead directly to meaningful employment,” added Shane McKay, Regional Manager at CAREERS. “There’s a tremendous amount of untapped potential in this next generation—and this program gives them a real runway to soar.”

CCAA

CCAA has provided the curriculum for the Aircraft Service Technician (AST) program.

“At CCAA, we work closely with industry to define and deliver the skills needed today and into the future,” said Theresa Davis-Woodhouse, Executive Director at the Canadian Council for Aviation and Aerospace. “This partnership ensures Albertans are not only trained to national standards but are also workplace-ready—supporting both the individuals and the employers driving our aviation economy.” 

With Canada projected to face a shortage of 42,000 to 55,000 aviation workers by 2035, this initiative positions Alberta as a national leader in aviation workforce development—building a talent pool that is skilled, diverse, and ready to meet both current and future industry needs.

Media Contact:

Vaibhav Sharma
Project Manager, Alberta Aviation & Aerospace Council
vaibhav@albertaaviationcouncil.com
204-952-7224