Ontario and Alberta Form Partnership to Aid Internationally Trained Skilled Workers

Ontario and Alberta have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on international credential recognition and post-journeyperson certification. This partnership aims to reduce interprovincial barriers and streamline the process for internationally trained workers to enter the skilled trades in both provinces.

Key points of the MOU include:

• Sharing expertise and information between Ontario and Alberta.
• Developing a common framework for international credential recognition.
• Enhancing mobility for skilled workers between the two provinces.

Ontario plans to open more pathways into the trades for apprentices and remove barriers for internationally trained workers. Alberta aims to expand its list of recognized international credentials to address gaps in the skilled labour market.

In Ontario, Skilled Trades Ontario (STO) will assess whether the experience and qualifications of applicants for an Ontario certificate of qualification are equivalent to those obtained through an Ontario apprenticeship program. The Trade Equivalency Assessment is the first step towards obtaining a Certificate of Qualification for experienced workers who have not completed an Ontario apprenticeship but possess equivalent skills and experience.

The Ontario government is also introducing new supports and protections to make the foreign credential system outcomes-oriented. This includes requiring regulated professions to accept alternatives when standard registration-related documents cannot be obtained due to reasons beyond an applicant's control, such as war or natural disasters.

This partnership is expected to address local labour shortages and impact potential employment opportunities in Clarington, which is part of the Northumberland-Peterborough South riding.