The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) today announced a new research project in partnership with the Government of Alberta to examine workforce needs for Alberta’s rapidly expanding AI-driven data centre industry, a cornerstone of the province’s plan to attract up to $100 billion in new investment by 2030.
Data centres have become one of Alberta’s most significant economic opportunities. Depending on the capacity, each facility may represent a major capital investment that drives substantial provincial economic activity during construction and supports employment opportunities across the province. With 29 new projects already proposed, workforce readiness has become an urgent priority.
This research will map the labour market requirements of large-scale data centre construction and operations, focusing on trades, engineers, IT professionals, and energy specialists. The findings will provide strategies for government, industry, and post-secondary institutions to ensure Alberta can supply the skilled workforce needed to capture this unprecedented investment opportunity.
Building on ICTC’s extensive research portfolio on Alberta’s digital economy, this project will deliver critical evidence to guide the next phase of Alberta’s economic growth.
The project will include labour market analysis, engagement with industry and education stakeholders, and the publication of a research report. Findings will also be made available through ICTC’s labour market dashboards and shared at events throughout Alberta.
“Alberta is seizing one of the most significant economic opportunities of our time. The rapid growth of AI-driven data centres has the potential to attract billions in investment and create jobs across the province. By partnering with ICTC on this research, Alberta’s government is making sure we have the skilled workforce needed to power this growth and keep Alberta competitive on the global stage.”
- Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration
“Alberta stands at the threshold of a transformation that could redefine its place in the global digital economy. Preparing the workforce for a $100-billion data centre opportunity is not just about meeting today’s demand—it is about building the foundations of tomorrow’s prosperity. With the right vision, Alberta can lead the world in AI infrastructure, power new industries, and anchor Canada’s competitiveness in an era of digital innovation.”
- 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.
