Sky’s the limit with innovative aviation training investment
Alberta’s government is revolutionizing aviation training by supporting cutting-edge virtual reality technology.
It is estimated by Transport Canada that there will be a shortage of 42,000 to 55,000 workers in the aviation sector from 2025 to 2035. Across Canada, colleges graduate only a fraction of the aviation professionals required by the labour market each year. Alberta is investing in innovation to help fill this gap in the aviation industry.
Alberta’s government is proud to announce a $900,000 commitment awarded through the Workforce Strategies Grant to Elevate Aviation to benefit aviation training efforts across the province. This pivotal funding will fuel the creation of a revolutionary Virtual Reality (VR) Aviation Maintenance Training System, jet-set to address the sector's pressing workforce challenges with unprecedented innovation. Additionally, this announcement highlights the government’s dedication to elevating Alberta’s aviation industry through enhanced training.
“This investment marks a new era in aviation training. With this $900,000 grant, we are not only funding a project, we are also investing in the future of our aviation workforce. The VR Training System represents a game-changing approach that will fast-track the development of highly skilled aviation professionals while helping to address critical workforce shortages.” — Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade
Elevate Aviation’s VR Maintenance Training System is set to revolutionize how aviation maintenance is taught. This state-of-the-art system uses immersive VR technology to create life-like training environments, enabling trainees to perfect their skills in a risk-free setting. This dynamic approach will accelerate learning and give graduates the experience they need to be industry-ready from day one.
Alberta’s government also proudly supports Elevate Aviation Learning Centre’s (EALC) current Aviation Readiness Training programs through a $5-million grant awarded in 2023, reinforcing Alberta’s commitment to cutting-edge education and industry advancement.
“Our VR Training System is a giant step forward for aviation education. By integrating VR, we are breaking down barriers and providing a modern, effective solution to meet the urgent need for skilled aviation professionals. This investment is a clear signal that Alberta is committed to staying ahead of the curve in aviation training.” — Laura Sinclair, chief operating officer, Elevate Aviation
The Workforce Strategies Grant initiative aims to broaden access to high-quality training, including for rural and Indigenous communities, fostering a more diverse and inclusive aviation workforce. This investment underscores Alberta’s commitment to supporting the aviation industry and ensuring its continued growth and success.
Investing in training for skilled workers is a cornerstone of Alberta’s strategy for economic growth and resilience. As Alberta continues to grow and diversify its economy, ensuring a steady stream of well-trained professionals is crucial to meeting the demands of emerging industries and maintaining its competitive advantage.
Empowering the workforce through targeted training ensures Alberta remains at the forefront of industry advancements, creating sustainable job opportunities and driving long-term prosperity for the province.
Quick facts
Once developed, the new VR Aviation Maintenance Training System will help address the labour shortage, which is expected to grow with more than 1,000 openings in Alberta in the next five to ten years.
More than 200 students per year graduated from Aviation Readiness Training programs at EALC with skills and qualifications to enter a variety of aviation careers.
The VR training system will be located in Edmonton with the capability to be used anywhere with an internet connection.
This product is unique in Canada. The training modules can be used for foundational training, industry onboarding, competency testing and recurrent training, which has never been done in the aviation sector.
Elevate Aviation is an established not-for-profit training provider within the aviation industry that provides skills development and career exploration services for future aviators.