The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) today announced a new research initiative in partnership with the Government of Alberta aimed at addressing youth un- and underemployment and connecting young people to careers in the province’s growing digital economy.
As of October 2025, Alberta’s youth unemployment rate stood at 14.9 per cent. At the same time, ICTC’s recent report on Alberta’s digital economy projects that the province will add more than 13,600 digital jobs by 2030. Despite this projected growth, employers across Alberta continue to report difficulty filling digital roles, particularly in rural and northern regions.
This research will examine the barriers that prevent young Albertans from securing meaningful employment and propose actionable strategies for employers, post-secondary institutions, and policymakers to better connect young people to opportunities. Special focus will be given to the challenges facing smaller communities.
Building on ICTC’s extensive research portfolio in Alberta, this project will provide the next layer of evidence to ensure that Alberta’s digital growth translates into inclusive opportunities for its young people.
The project will include labour market analysis, engagement with employers and youth across the province, and the publication of a research report that will be made publicly available. Findings will also be shared through ICTC’s labour market dashboards and at events throughout Alberta.
“A diversified economy means more opportunities for people to have successful careers in Alberta. Especially for young people, it is important that we are opening the doors for evolving industries like those in technology. We look forward to working with the ICTC on this important research project to find out what steps we can take to set our young people up for success in a digital economy.”
- Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration
“Alberta’s youth are not only the foundation of its digital future—they are the architects of it. By harnessing their talent and creativity, Alberta can unlock the next wave of innovation, fuel its economic transformation, and position itself as a global leader in building a digital economy that is prosperous, inclusive, and resilient.”
- Namir Anani, President & CEO of ICTC.
Explore ICTC’s portfolio of research on Alberta’s digital economy:
- Alberta’s Digital Economy: Outlook 2030
- Concept to Care: Health Technology Talent in Alberta
- Virtual Frontiers: Alberta’s Interactive Digital Media Industry
- Seeding Rural Innovation: Nurturing the Tech Frontier in Alberta
- Settling for More: Matching Newcomers to Alberta’s Tech Sector
- A Resilient Recovery: Alberta’s Digital-Led Post-COVID Future
- Inclusivity and Accessibility at the Core: Pathways to Employment in the Digital Economy for Albertans with Disabilities
- Mapping Calgary’s Digital Future: Tech Employment Opportunities for Displaced Workers
- The Digital Talent Imperative: Calgary’s Economic Edge
- A Digital Future for Alberta: An Analysis of Digital Occupations in Alberta’s High-Growth Sectors
About the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC)
The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) is a neutral, not-for-profit national centre of expertise with the mission of strengthening Canada’s digital advantage in the global economy. For over 30 years, ICTC has delivered forward-looking research, practical policy advice, and capacity-building solutions for individuals and businesses. The organization’s goal is to ensure that technology is utilized to drive economic growth and innovation and that Canada’s workforce remains competitive on a global scale.
The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support and services.
