The post-Covid world in which we live continues to be an uneasy ride! While all companies strive to manage their businesses in these uncertain times, the challenges are ever-present. Supply and labour shortages, inflation, the Ukraine war, and upcoming provincial elections, to name a few.

Where there are challenges, there are also opportunities. The booming energy sector, an uptick in mining for special metals, government spending on infrastructure and federal investments in green technologies are just a few bright spots in the Alberta economy.

Well-managed companies will be better positioned to take advantage of new opportunities. Having skilled, well-trained and motivated employees has always been key to a company’s success. Accessing skilled labour has never been easy in Alberta. The Achilles heel in the Metal Building Industry has always been the supply of quality metal building erectors. Alberta’s current provincial government has recognized this and continues to invest in supporting trades in Alberta. It was terrific to hear that Ray Massey was returning to lead apprenticeship training and Chair the Alberta Board of Skilled Trades! His experience and passion will greatly benefit the program.

It is incumbent on all metal building stakeholders to work towards attracting workers to the Metal Building System Erector (MBSE) trade. If you are a contractor who employs metal building erection companies, make sure that they are using properly certified people. If you self-perform metal building erection, enroll your new workers into the MBSE apprenticeship program and support and encourage them to complete their Journeyperson ticket. If you are in Human Resources, be mindful of the advantages of your employees holding an MBSE ticket – it opens doors to a varied career with excellent wages, benefits and experiences and will be a competitive advantage for your company!