Matching Newcomers to Alberta’s Tech Sector
Abstract
Matching Newcomers to Alberta’s Tech Sector Research by The Information and Communications Technology Council The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services. […] The opinions and interpretations in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Government of Alberta. […] The application and interview process can be difficult for newcomers — Job application and interview procedures vary from country to country, and newcomers and employers in this study said that many newcomers lack a robust understanding of the Canadian hiring process. […] Settling for More: Matching Newcomers to Alberta’s Tech Sector www.ictc-ctic.ca Section I High Demand for Skilled Talent in Alberta’s Digital Economy The Ebb and Flow of Alberta’s Resource Sector: An Opportunity for Digital Diversification Alberta’s economy has been tied strongly to the oil and gas sector for many years, growing by 57% from 1990–2003 (compared to 43% for all of Canada).11 However,. […] In 2020, the most popular LinkedIn course was time management and strategic thinking, underscoring the demand for soft or business skills.86 Further, there is a call for employers to develop “clear definitions of what employers mean by skills” to improve inclusion and diversity in workplaces.87 Yet it is important to note the complex interplay between what is considered a soft skill and in-depth u.
Notes
Key recommendations
Increased support for newcomers seeking jobs in the tech sector, including increased access to information about job opportunities
Further education for employees and employers for inclusive hiring practices
Provide newcomers with assistance when navigating the Canadian job market
Community organizations
NA
Integration timeline
At what point during the integration process the study was conducted?
Arrived within the last 5 years
Gaps identified
more rural and smaller city engagement
Key populations
Newcomers within tech sector
Location
Alberta
Calgary
Edmonton
Key findings
A lack of Canadian work experience presents difficulty for newcomers trying to enter the Alberta’s tech sector
Professional connections, as well as interviewing presents a barrier for job-seeking newcomers within the tech sector
More support programs and services within the tech sector in Alberta are needed for newcomers such as mentorship, language training, and opportunities for networking
Open-access-No